Costa Rica Animal Welfare Laws

What should I report to the OIJ?

The OIJ should investigate cases of abuse and death of a domestic or domesticated animal:

  • Persistent weakening of its health

  • Loss of a sense, an organ, a limb

  • Intense suffering or pain, or prolonged agony

  • Sexual acts with animals

  • Vivisection of animals for purposes other than research

  • Deliberate killing of an animal

Where to report abuse or death of companion animals?

The basic legal responsibilities towards your pet are:

  • Providing food and water

  • Providing them with space to "engage in their normal behavioral patterns

  • Ensuring they are free from physical discomfort and pain

  • Providing veterinary care for prevention and treatment of illnesses

  • Ensuring a painless euthanasia, if necessary, under professional supervision

If you do not comply with responsible pet ownership (articles 3 and 7 of the Animal Welfare Law), promote animal fights, promote or engage in breeding, hybridization, or training of animals to increase their danger level, or conduct unauthorized animal experimentation, you may be subject to a fine ranging from one-quarter to half of the base salary: from ¢115,500.00 to ¢231,100.00.

Where to report irresponsible ownership of companion animals?

SENASA You must fill out the form found at https://www.senasa.go.cr/nuestras-oficinas/denuncie and submit it through the platform or present it at any SENASA office nationwide.