Too many animals have been roaming the roads of Samara in recent months, increasing the risk of accidents. Although this is a problem throughout the country, in Samara measures are being taken.

Dr. José Nahem Nema Vidaurre, head of the Nicoya office of SENASA (Servicio Nacional de Salud Animal- National Service of Animal Health), said that accidents occur frequently because of animals in the roads. “It has always been a problem but it has been increasing day by day; only before there weren’t so many vehicles in our roads and the drivers were more responsible. Also, foreign tourism has increased a lot and the drivers come from countries where speed regulations are higher than in our [country].”

Another concern, he said, is that people running horses during horseback tours on the beaches could cause injury to people who are sunbathing. Also animals leave their droppings on the beach, producing environmental contamination which is regulated by Costa Rican law.

SENASA has responded to increased problems with animals by performing two operations in Samara so far, detaining horses that are roving about the streets and the beach in Samara. By law, animals such as cows, horses and goats are prohibited from wandering in public streets, parks, plazas and other public places, Dr. Nema explained.

He said they hope to create awareness among animal owners and provide sanitary measures by means of these operations. “Maybe the owners, upon seeing they lost some of their animals, will be more conscientious,” he said.