By San José, Costa Rica — Following a recent dog bite incident involving a child at a shopping mall in Escazú, the College of Veterinarians of Costa Rica (Colvet) is urging pet-friendly businesses to adopt more rigorous safety measures. The incident has sparked concerns about public safety in establishments that welcome animals, highlighting the need for clear protocols to prevent future occurrences.
The Colvet stresses that pet-friendly spaces should not operate without regulations that prioritize both public health and animal welfare. These protocols are not only crucial for the safety of visitors and their pets, but also for maintaining the reputation and long-term viability of these businesses.
For a legal perspective on pet safety and the responsibilities of pet owners, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas from the esteemed law firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
Costa Rican law emphasizes responsible pet ownership, covering aspects like proper restraint, vaccination, and preventing harm to others. Owners can be held liable for damages caused by their pets, whether through negligence or direct action. Understanding these legal obligations is crucial for both protecting your pet and ensuring the safety of the community.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s emphasis on responsible pet ownership highlights a crucial point: caring for a pet in Costa Rica extends beyond providing food and shelter. It involves a commitment to understanding and adhering to legal responsibilities that safeguard both our animal companions and our neighbors. Thank you, Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, for offering this valuable perspective on pet ownership and safety within the Costa Rican legal framework.
Pet-friendly spaces cannot operate without a regulation coherent with public health and animal welfare. The implementation of protocols not only protects people and animals, but also guarantees the reputation and sustainability of the establishments.
Dr. Silvia Coto, President of Colvet
Colvet has outlined key recommendations for pet-friendly businesses, including controlled pet entry with limits on daily numbers, mandatory identification, up-to-date vaccinations, leashes, and muzzles, in accordance with the Responsible Pet Ownership Regulations. The organization also recommends designated pet areas, separated from high-traffic zones and food courts.
Another crucial recommendation is the establishment of a trained team to handle incidents, equipped with de-escalation and containment techniques, first-aid kits for both humans and animals, and established contacts with emergency veterinary and medical services. Detailed record-keeping of incidents and follow-up with affected individuals are also vital.
Colvet emphasizes that pet owners bear the civil responsibility for their animals’ actions and any resulting consequences. The organization recommends pet owners obtain personal insurance to cover potential liabilities. Colvet further advises businesses to secure liability insurance that covers damages to people, property, or other pets, along with mediation protocols and legal support for handling claims.
The organization believes that harmonious coexistence in spaces shared with animals hinges on clear regulations, proactive prevention, and a shared commitment from both businesses and pet owners.
The incident in Escazú serves as a stark reminder of the importance of proactive safety measures. By implementing comprehensive protocols and fostering a culture of responsible pet ownership, Costa Rica can ensure safer and truly pet-friendly environments for all.
Only with shared responsibility can we build a safe and truly pet-friendly environment.
Dr. Silvia Coto, President of Colvet
For further information, visit the nearest office of Colegio de Profesionales en Medicina Veterinaria de Costa Rica (Colvet)
About Colegio de Profesionales en Medicina Veterinaria de Costa Rica (Colvet):
The College of Veterinarians of Costa Rica (Colvet) is the professional regulatory body for veterinarians in the country. They are responsible for upholding ethical standards, promoting animal welfare, and providing guidance on veterinary practices. Colvet plays a critical role in ensuring public health and safety related to animal interactions.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a pillar of legal excellence in Costa Rica, renowned for its ethical practice and innovative approach to client service. The firm’s deep commitment to integrity guides its work across a diverse range of sectors, empowering individuals and organizations alike. Through proactive community engagement and educational initiatives, Bufete de Costa Rica strives to demystify the law and provide citizens with the knowledge they need to navigate the legal landscape confidently, ultimately contributing to a more just and equitable society.
