Thinking about bringing pets into Costa Rica? Whether you’re here for a vacation stay or a longer commitment – say, as a digital nomad or resident-in-consideration – you may be considering bringing a cat or traveling with a dog to Costa Rica.
The short of it is that often, you can bring your pets along on the plane, either as carry-on or checked luggage. Vaccination requirements typically mirror those of your home country, and most of the paperwork can be handled by your local vet. But more on that, in a moment.
Things to Do with Pets in Costa Rica
If you’re thinking about traveling with a dog to Costa Rica, then you’re in luck! Costa Rica is very dog friendly and you’ll find that many, many places – from private parks and attractions to restaurants and malls – are dog-friendly. And Hacienda Pinilla’s streets, avenues, and trails are perfect for long walks with your four-legged friend.
A general rule of thumb: Ask us! As you plan your vacation, ask your dedicated concierge about dog-friendly activities that everyone will enjoy. Typically, these will revolve around hikes and dining, but there may be a few other options to carve out, depending on your preferences.
Regarding cats, we recommend keeping them 100% indoors, as cats typically aren’t used to navigating street dogs, local dangers, and other issues. Furthermore, while many attractions are dog-friendly, they’re not usually cat-friendly; some restaurants, however, may be open to cats traveling in strollers or carriers. Again, ask us!
Costa Rica’s Pet Scene
It’s important to recognize that Costa Rica boasts its own unique culture and customs. Depending on your background, these customs could range from a mild surprise to a significant cultural shift.
For many, one of the first things you’ll notice is the abundance of street dogs, most of which are not spayed or neutered. While they may not fit the traditional definition of “strays,” as many are regularly fed and some even have informal homes, they roam freely day and night. This can present a challenge for dog owners, especially if their pets are not accustomed to interacting with unleashed dogs.
Additionally, Costa Rica has its own set of challenges for foreign-born pets: There are pests, insects, and diseases here that you may not encounter at home. For example, don’t even let your pet roam freely, as there are cane toads, venomous snakes, and other dangers they haven’t grown up facing.
By all means, we don’t want to discourage you from bringing pets into Costa Rica – many people do and are happy for it! – but we do want you to go into the process with eyes wide open.
Bringing Pets into Costa Rica: The Basics
Before delving into the specifics of bringing a cat or traveling with a dog to Costa Rica, let’s cover some basics. Can your pet accompany you on the airplane? What about birds, ferrets, or other animals?
Before we start, a disclaimer: We are not pet importers. This is not our job and, therefore, we don’t know every in and out of current regulations. Furthermore, regulations change. So, do not take this post as gospel; verify with APHIS Veterinary Services Area Office, the U.S. Embassy in Costa Rica, and your veterinarian, who should be familiar with issuing a health certificate for international travel.
With that said, here are your pet transportation options:
- Airline Carry-On: Some airlines permit small pets, usually under 15 lbs., to travel as carry-on baggage. They must be in a carrier that fits under the seat in front of you.
- Airline Check-In: Larger pets, often subject to size and breed restrictions, may be allowed to travel as checked baggage on certain airlines.
- Pet Shipper + Broker: Many dog owners opt for utilizing a pet shipper and broker for bringing pets into Costa Rica, which can sometimes be the preferred or only viable option.
Note: If your pet is traveling as cargo, additional documentation such as proof of Pet Customs Duty payment (if applicable) and a pet quarantine permit issued by MAG, Costa Rica’s Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock, may be required.
Always ensure you verify any additional requirements prior to your pet’s arrival.
Pet Entry Requirements for Costa Rica
When bringing pets into Costa Rica, there are specific requirements. Here’s what you need to know:
Requirement 1: Pet Vaccinations
Costa Rica mandates full vaccination for cats and dogs, following its animal vaccination schedules. These typically include the Rabies vaccine, as well as Distemper, Hepatitis, Leptospirosis, Parvovirus, and Parainfluenza (DHLPP)for dogs and Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, and Panleukopenia (FVRCP) for cats.
Always ensure you verify vaccination requirements prior to your pet’s arrival.
Requirement 2: Pet Health Certificate
A pet health certificate for entry into Costa Rica must be issued within 14 days of travel. It’s important to note that not all veterinarians in your home country may be authorized to issue this certificate; you’ll need to find a veterinarian who is USDA-certified.
When scheduling your appointment with a USDA-certified vet, ensure they are aware of the purpose of your visit. Additional paperwork is involved, so it’s crucial they have everything prepared in advance.
Note: Timing must be precise, as even hours can make a difference. For example, if your vet appointment is at 10 a.m. on Day 14 and you arrive in Costa Rica at 2 p.m., you could technically exceed the 14-day limit. To avoid any risks, err on the side of caution.
Requirement 3: USDA APHIS Endorsement
Your USDA-certified veterinarian will typically handle this step, but it’s crucial for you to understand the requirements. Timing is critical at this stage.
You can obtain the USDA APHIS endorsement either through mail or in-person submission. Before proceeding, it’s advisable to locate your nearest USDA APHIS Veterinary Services Endorsement Office and contact them in advance to inquire about current processing times. If time constraints are tight, consider scheduling an appointment for in-person endorsement acquisition. Alternatively, if you have ample lead time, submitting the endorsement via mail (with expedited shipping) often provides sufficient turnaround.
Warning! Pets arriving as manifest cargo must be accompanied by an import permit. Individuals, including pet owners, cannot apply for this permit directly; it is imperative to work with a pet broker or a similar professional. The import permit application must be submitted to Senasa (Costa Rica’s National Animal Welfare Service) four days prior to arrival and must include the complete vaccination record.
Which Pets Can You Bring to Costa Rica?
The majority of visitors are traveling with a dog to Costa Rica, with cats coming a close second. That’s because they’re both popular pets, but that’s not the only reason.
For instance, exotic pets such as sugar gliders and ferrets cannot be sold or kept as pets in Costa Rica, even if they were legally acquired in your home country. Furthermore, it’s generally prohibited to import any animal native to Costa Rica, as owning wild animals native to the country is illegal under Costa Rican law, regardless of their legal status in your home country.
Regulations concerning the importation of birds in Costa Rica have fluctuated over time. While it was legal at certain points, as of 2022, bird importation is not permitted. However, these laws may change, so consulting a pet broker for the most up-to-date information is advisable. Additionally, even when bird importation was allowed, it was strictly one-way, with no option for re-exportation.
Keep in mind that while this information is accurate as of publication in early 2024, regulations may change. Always consult with pet import experts and your country’s embassy in Costa Rica, to ensure compliance with the latest requirements at the time of your pet’s arrival.
Climate Considerations
Pets from cooler climates, as well as certain breeds like snub-nosed dogs, long-haired cats, snow dog breeds, and dogs with heavy coats, will require special attention to in Costa Rica’s climate.
To ensure your beloved pet’s comfort, choose a vacation home with central air-conditioning. Additionally, bring grooming tools for long-haired pets, to help them cope with shedding from the heat. Ensure they always have access to fresh drinking water and shaded areas when outdoors.
Pet Medications
If your pet requires specific medications, especially for chronic health conditions, bring a supply of their medications, as they may not be available locally.
Also keep in mind that, while the tropics offer many attractions, they are also conducive to pests due to factors like sun, warmth, and abundant rain. Prepare your pets for Costa Rica with flea and tick treatments, deworming, and heartworm prevention.
Where to Stay: Pet-Friendly Vacation Homes in Costa Rica
We are here to help you find a home to accommodate your pet. Please contact us if you are planning to travel with pets. For now, here are a few dream-worthy rentals to get you started:
Casa Savanna
4 Beds | 4 Baths | 13 Guests
Sometimes, a family vacation isn’t about doing everything on the agenda but rather, doing almost nothing at all. In our busy world, surrounded by the hustle and bustle of daily life and packed-to-the-gills schedules, vacation can be a time for escape – for reading books by the poolside and taking time to prepare a meal together, for long conversations and morning coffee on the terrace.
This is Casa Savanna, an elevated vacation home that values your family’s privacy. Because here, within these meticulously designed four walls, this lovely home delivers ample social areas paired with four independent bedroom-bathroom suites: spaces carved out for your time together and your solo time to recharge.
Outdoors, Casa Savanna’s focal point sparkles – literally! Families love the gorgeous private pool, bordered by lounge chairs and bathed in sun. Just adjacent: shaded terraces and an outdoor grill, to whip up a feast as you relax, swim, and spend sun-dappled afternoons ensconced within your own private paradise.
Casa Serena
5 Beds | 5 Baths | 10 Guests
Casa Serena takes your getaway to the next level with labyrinthine indoor-outdoor living for an exclusive selection of just 10 guests.
A home that spares no touch of comfort and skips no luxury, Casa Serena delivers on every exquisite detail: beachfront enough to live with sand between your toes, this spectacular home also offers a custom infinity pool (wrapped around a tree!), a full gym, and in-home spa room.
What’s more, you and your guests will enjoy the fully equipped gourmet kitchen, perfect for prepping both healthy meals and indulgent treats. You’ll spend your days on the shaded, breezy terraces. And you’ll dedicate many a morning and evening to strolls on the beach. Because it’s right there. And that’s why you’re here.
Casa Hamacas
6 Beds | 6 Baths | 20 Guests
Infused with the energy of the sea, Casa Hamacas is the kind of place that bids you relax and enjoy the hammocks. That is the genesis of the name, naturally: Hamacas accent the dreamy hammock garden, which encompasses elegant swings and cozy hammocks and surrounds this private paradise of sleek lines, a Balinese-style rancho, gentle lighting, and decadent luxury.
And if “dreamy hammock garden” hasn’t already sealed the deal, know that this is only one magical element of Casa Hamacas’s overall setting: a tropical home to parrots and butterflies and hummingbirds, plus expansive outdoor entertainment, including dining, grilling, lounge furniture, and one of our favorite roofed patios in the country. Deal, sealed.
Indeed, Casa Hamacas strives to meet and then exceed every expectation. Recent remodeling has upgraded its gourmet-ready kitchen, six spacious bedrooms, and sleek design, which combine to define and exemplify Costa Rican tropical luxury.
Need Help Planning & Bringing Pets into Costa Rica?
When you reserve your Hacienda Pinilla vacation home with us, you gain access to our full concierge services.
When you book, we’ll get in touch to help you plan all the details of your stay. Our job is to get to know you, so we can help you plan the trip of your dreams. Whether you just need help arranging transportation or would like a full itinerary – everything from your airport shuttle to a full trip’s worth of activities, private chef services, and golf cart rental – we’re happy to help.
Even better, our concierge services are always free. So, why wait? Get in touch and let’s get started!