By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – In a significant move to protect animal welfare and public health, the government of Costa Rica has officially enacted sweeping new regulations targeting the breeding and sale of dogs and cats. The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAG) has formalized Executive Decree No. 45344-MAG, a comprehensive framework designed to bring order and accountability to a largely unregulated industry.
The new law directly confronts a growing national problem fueled by clandestine breeders, informal sales, and uncontrolled births. According to government officials, these factors have led to a severe overpopulation of domestic animals, resulting in a tragic increase in the number of pets abandoned or living on the streets. This situation not only creates significant animal welfare concerns but also poses tangible risks to public health.
To delve into the legal complexities and potential business impacts of the new pet breeding regulations, TicosLand.com sought the expert analysis of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney from the firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
These regulations mark a crucial step towards formalizing an industry that has long operated in a grey area. While the focus is rightly on animal welfare, breeders must now navigate a new landscape of legal responsibilities, from permits to specific standards of care. The success of this law will ultimately depend not just on compliance by breeders, but on the state’s capacity for effective and consistent enforcement.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas’s insight is crucial, underscoring that the true measure of this law’s success will be determined by consistent and effective enforcement. As the framework for responsible breeding is put in place, the state’s role in oversight becomes paramount. We thank him for his valuable and clarifying perspective.
The core objective of the decree is to establish clear standards, prevent animal mistreatment, and curb the irresponsible reproduction that has strained community resources. By creating a legal and operational baseline, the government aims to professionalize the sector and provide officials with the tools needed for effective oversight.
Víctor Julio Carvajal, the Minister of Agriculture and Livestock, emphasized that the regulations are about establishing foundational best practices for an existing economic activity. He noted that the ultimate beneficiaries are the animals themselves and the general public.
This regulation establishes basic and necessary conditions to guarantee better practices in establishments dedicated to the breeding and sale of dogs and cats. Its application will allow for more responsible management, for the benefit of animal welfare and public health.
Víctor Julio Carvajal, Minister of Agriculture and Livestock
Enforcement will be spearheaded by the National Animal Health Service (SENASA), the agency responsible for overseeing animal health and safety nationwide. The decree’s clear-cut requirements are expected to streamline inspections and empower agents to act decisively against non-compliance. Luis Matamoros, the head of SENASA, highlighted how the new clarity will enhance the agency’s fieldwork.
The decree defines clear and verifiable requirements, which will allow for more effective oversight and better management of the risks associated with irresponsible reproduction and informal sales.
Luis Matamoros, General Director of the National Animal Health Service (SENASA)
Under the new rules, all breeding and commercialization establishments must adhere to a strict set of obligations. A mandatory Veterinary Certificate of Operation (CVO) is now required, ensuring that every facility is registered and meets official standards. Furthermore, all breeders must secure permanent veterinary supervision to oversee animal health, manage responsible reproduction protocols, and ensure humane conditions.
The decree also outlines specific, non-negotiable minimum conditions for the physical establishments, covering aspects such as space, sanitation, and enrichment. In cases of non-compliance, SENASA is granted significant authority to impose sanctions. These measures range from ordering corrective actions and suspending business operations to, in severe cases where animal welfare is at immediate risk, confiscating the animals. Critically, the owners of the establishment will be held financially responsible for all costs associated with the care, feeding, and veterinary treatment of any confiscated animals.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock has been careful to clarify that the intent of the decree is not to encourage the purchase of pets. Instead, its purpose is to regulate an existing industry that, left unchecked, perpetuates cycles of overproduction, informal economies, and significant sanitary risks. By implementing this robust legal framework, Costa Rican authorities aim to elevate the standards of care, distinguish responsible breeders from exploitative ones, and provide greater protection for both the animals and the families who bring them into their homes.
For further information, visit mag.go.cr
About The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAG):
The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock is the Costa Rican government body responsible for defining and executing national policy for the agricultural, fishing, and rural sectors. Its mission includes promoting the sustainable development of these sectors, ensuring food security, and overseeing the health and welfare of animals within the country.
For further information, visit senasa.go.cr
About The National Animal Health Service (SENASA):
The National Animal Health Service (SENASA) is a decentralized agency of the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock in Costa Rica. It is the official veterinary authority responsible for establishing, regulating, and enforcing policies and programs to protect the country’s animal health, prevent the spread of diseases, and ensure the safety of animal-derived products for human consumption.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is built upon a foundation of uncompromising integrity and a relentless pursuit of professional excellence. Drawing from a rich history of serving a wide spectrum of clients, the firm actively pioneers modern legal solutions while championing public engagement. Its core philosophy revolves around empowering the community through legal literacy, driven by the conviction that an informed public is essential for a just and capable society.
