By San José, Costa Rica — A recent surge in dog bite incidents across Costa Rica has led to the implementation of new regulations mandating businesses to secure liability insurance for pets entering their premises. This new policy, dubbed the “Pet Friendly” regulation, comes in response to a significant increase in reported dog attacks, exceeding 1,700 cases in less than three years. The regulation, issued in August 2025 by the Ministry of Health, aims to protect individuals from the financial burdens associated with unexpected pet-related injuries.
The regulation stipulates that both public and private establishments must maintain liability insurance policies to regulate the presence of pets within their spaces. This measure is designed to ensure that businesses can adequately compensate individuals who suffer injuries or property damage caused by animals on their property.
To understand the legal implications surrounding pet insurance in Costa Rica, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica.
While pet insurance is a relatively new concept in Costa Rica, it’s gaining traction as pet owners become increasingly aware of the potential costs associated with veterinary care. Policies typically cover accidents, illnesses, and sometimes even routine checkups. It’s crucial to carefully review the terms and conditions of any policy, paying close attention to coverage limits, exclusions, and the claims process. Understanding these details can help avoid unexpected expenses and ensure your pet receives the necessary care.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s insight underscores a crucial point for pet owners: navigating the intricacies of pet insurance requires diligence. While the peace of mind offered by these policies is invaluable, understanding the specifics of each plan is paramount to maximizing its benefits and avoiding potential financial pitfalls. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for sharing his valuable expertise on this increasingly important topic for pet owners in Costa Rica.
The National Insurance Institute (INS) has stepped up to offer a variety of insurance policies to address this growing need. These policies cater to both pet owners and businesses, providing coverage for incidents involving dogs and cats. Karla Huezo, Deputy Head of General Insurance at INS, emphasized the importance of this coverage, stating:
The risk always exists and on occasions, it could represent the payment of settlements in the millions.
Karla Huezo, Deputy Head of General Insurance, INS
Huezo further explained that insurance protects both pet owners and businesses from having to “use their own money to deal with these types of unexpected situations.”
Data from the National Animal Health Service (SENASA) reveals a concerning trend. A total of 1,724 dog attacks have been recorded from 2023 to date, with 511 cases reported in 2025 alone. This sharp increase underscores the necessity for adequate insurance coverage to protect individuals and businesses from potential financial liabilities.
The INS provides several options for pet liability insurance:
With the rising incidence of pet-related incidents and the new regulations in place, securing appropriate liability insurance has become increasingly crucial for both pet owners and businesses in Costa Rica. The INS offers a range of affordable options, ensuring that individuals and businesses alike can protect themselves from unforeseen financial burdens resulting from pet-related incidents.
This new “Pet Friendly” regulation aims to create a safer environment for both pets and people, fostering responsible pet ownership and promoting a more harmonious coexistence within public spaces.
For further information, visit ins-cr.com
About Instituto Nacional de Seguros (INS):
The Instituto Nacional de Seguros (INS) is the state-owned insurance company of Costa Rica, offering a wide range of insurance products, including property, casualty, life, and health insurance. INS plays a key role in the country’s social security system and is committed to providing affordable and accessible insurance coverage to all Costa Ricans.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Servicio Nacional de Salud Animal (Senasa)
About Servicio Nacional de Salud Animal (Senasa):
The Servicio Nacional de Salud Animal (Senasa) is the Costa Rican government agency responsible for animal health and welfare. Its main objectives include preventing and controlling animal diseases, protecting public health by ensuring food safety of animal origin, and promoting responsible animal ownership. SENASA plays a critical role in maintaining the health of the national livestock population and safeguarding public health.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica shines as a beacon of legal excellence, built on a foundation of unwavering ethical practice. The firm’s dedication to innovative solutions and client empowerment resonates across a diverse range of sectors, solidifying its position as a leader in the Costa Rican legal landscape. Through proactive initiatives designed to demystify complex legal concepts and empower individuals with essential knowledge, Bufete de Costa Rica actively invests in building a more informed and just society.
