I care a great deal about animals and this has me quite angry to say the least. ...humans.
A few days ago a Canadian couple decided to bring their pet Cockatoo on vacation with them to Costa Rica - no permits, nothing, “just taking it on vacation.” The bird was immediately confiscated and fortunately transferred to a animal rescue center. Often times they are immediately euthanised. The couple also faces possible fines and even jail time. Seriously, jail time.
NO ANIMALS can be brought into Costa Rica without proper documentation. The Ministry of Agriculture and Cattle for Costa Rica, through SENASA, is the entity responsible for the regulation of exportation and importation for animals in general. To obtain the necessary documentation for the arrival or departure of pets to and from Costa Rica, contact SENASA at their website or by phone 011 (506) 2587-1600 or 011 (506) 2260-8300 or by email [email protected] They only speak Spanish.
As long as the proper documentation is obtained, bringing your pet into the country is not a big deal. The requirements for cats and dogs is fairly basic; however, the importation of birds is difficult and cannot be done on your own. You will need someone in Costa Rica to assist you.
An angry... - Expat Dave