GUÁPILES, Costa Rica—Humane Society International/Latin America, the National Coordination of Animal Welfare of the Ministry of the Presidency and the National Police Academy of the Ministry of Public Security conducted a course on animal welfare for Costa Rican police students. It covered the basic aspects that every police officer should consider as part of a first response institution, for animals in cases of cruelty, in emergencies and for the correct handling of these in their daily work.

The objective is for students to gain the necessary knowledge in the Costa Rican legal framework regarding animal welfare. They learned to identify abuse and cruelty as well as to recognize the connection between social violence and violence towards animals. It also covered topics such as the identification of evidence for the recognition of animal fights and the proper handling of cases involving wildlife.

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The 16-hour modules were taught by experts from SENASA, SINAC, HSI LA and ASCR in a pilot project on May 21st, 22nd, 23rd at the facilities of the National Police Academy located in Guápiles, Limón.

Amanda Chaves, manager of the Companion Animal program for HSI Latin America, said: “Through this course we intend to generate sensitivity and raise awareness of the basic needs of animals in all Costa Rican police students, who must take this course obligatorily to be able to graduate. In addition, as always we reiterate our commitment to continue fighting and working for animals together with the government of the Republic of Costa Rica and all institutions involved in the animal welfare of the country.

Additionally, for the fulfillment of these objectives, HSI Latin America donated to the National Police School a basic animal welfare kit with instruments and tools to make a correct handling of the animals – kennels, gloves, belts, and cages, among others.

Media Contact: In Costa Rica: Amanda Chaves Alvarado, achaves@hsi.org, 506 2233 0303 / 506 7018 4621 .