By Manfred Peters, GM Attorneys at Law
Following a recent incident involving a child bitten by a dog in a shopping mall in San Jose, Costa Rica’s Ministry of Health has issued a new resolution that unifies and strengthens the rules for allowing pets in public and private establishments. The goal: to protect the health and safety of all visitors.
According to Executive Decree 31626, dogs and cats are considered companion animals. Generally, they may not enter food service establishments without complying with the health requirements established in Section 61, subsection c, of the Regulations for Public Food Services. The regulation allows service animals, such as guide dogs, but prohibits them from being present in food preparation areas.
Requirements for “pet-friendly” businesses:
Any business that chooses to allow pets must:
- Post visible signs indicating that pets are allowed, what type, and under which conditions.
- Require the use of a collar, leash, and, if necessary, a muzzle.
- Ensure that pet owners collect and dispose of waste in designated areas.
- Provide containers for pet waste.
- Include protocols for incidents involving animals in their emergency plan, maintain adequate insurance policies, and inform all staff.
- Ensure pets are always under the control of a responsible adult.
Responsibility and penalties
Both the business and the pet owner are responsible for complying with health and animal welfare regulations.
Failure to comply may result in fines, suspension or cancellation of the health permit, closure of the establishment, and even charges for disobedience to authority.
The Ministry of Health has announced inspections in shopping centers and other establishments that allow pets to ensure strict compliance.
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