Patricia F. Says:
Has anyone brought pets to Costa Rica from the US? Is there any problem with the wildlife (e.g., monkeys) in certain sections? Are there areas where we would be safer with our pets?
IL Costa Rica Correspondent Bekah Bottone Says:
Hi Patricia,
I have a cat and dog and have never had any issues with wildlife (knock on wood).
Yet, there is a lot of wildlife, and I have heard of some issues here in Guanacaste. I live close to Playa Tamarindo. For example, some frogs are poisonous when licked. My dog is a beagle, so she prefers to point out wildlife rather than touch it.
In addition, we have lots of snakes and scorpions. I think my dog was stung by a scorpion once as she swelled up, but she was okay. Vets have antivenom. If a rattlesnake bites your dog, you must get it to the vet immediately. It’s the same protocol for people in the area.
Skunks are my main issue at my house. They often come into my yard at night and drive my dog crazy!
In Costa Rica, the monkeys don’t tend to bother people or pets. They mostly keep their distance and stay in the trees.
I believe there are fewer issues with wildlife in the city.
Tick fever is also common in my area. If infected, dogs get lethargic and need medicine. It’s different from the States, as Lyme disease is much less common here.
Learn more about bringing pets to Costa Rica here.
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