Costa Rica is considering a landmark bill, N.° 24.482, aimed at recognizing animals as sentient beings capable of experiencing pain, pleasure, and other emotions. Animal rights organizations and the College of Veterinary Doctors of Costa Rica presented their positions on the bill to the Environment Commission of the Legislative Assembly on April 8th.
Recognition of Sentience: The bill establishes that animals possess a capacity for feeling that must be respected and protected, defining them as living beings with nervous systems and physical and emotional sensitivity.
Protection of Companion Animals: It prohibits the seizure of companion animals and establishes measures to guarantee their well-being in cases of provisional or definitive custody, ensuring they are treated with respect and their emotional bonds with families are protected.
Regulation of Practices: The bill prohibits cruel methods for capturing and controlling animals and strengthens regulations for the slaughter of production species. It also regulates the exhibition of animals in captivity, prohibiting conditions that may cause them suffering.
Administrative and Judicial Measures: Administrative and judicial decisions involving animals must consider their capacity to feel and ensure their protection.
Testaments and Custody: The bill regulates the custody of domestic animals in cases of the death of their owners, prioritizing close relatives or authorized protection entities.
Exhibition and Filming: The project regulates the conditions under which animals are filmed, ensuring they are not harmed and that the films have educational value.
This initiative represents a significant step towards a more compassionate society and builds upon Costa Rica's existing legal framework for animal protection, including the Animal Welfare Law and amendments to the Penal Code that criminalize animal abuse and cruelty.