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Organization

THERAPEUTIC RECREATION SERVICES MANUAL

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Subject

ANIMAL VISITATION POLICY

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Effective Revision Supersedes: Approved By:

Date: Date:

Revision

Number:

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I. POLICY:

The hospital recognizes the therapeutic benefits of animal visitations. Therefore, animals are permitted to visit patients by prior arrangement with unit staff.

II. PURPOSE:

To provide a set of guidelines to assure safety for patients, staff, visitors and visiting animals.

III. PROCEDURE

1. Animals visiting the facility must be clean, have up-to-date vaccinations, and be under control of the owner at all times.

2. State and local laws regarding rabies prevention and animal licensure will be observed.

3. When animals are present in the facility, they are not permitted in the following areas:

• Food preparation areas
• Clean utility rooms
• Medication room
• Food pantry rooms
• Storage areas
• Cafeteria

4. Animals will be permitted in the following areas:

• Recreation areas
• Day rooms
• Atrium
• Areas set aside for their use
• Halls- if leashed or caged while in transit to and from permissible areas

5. Animals will be allowed in patient rooms only under strictly supervised conditions; if none of the occupants object; and if the patient’s medical condition does not prohibit it.

6. Wild, dangerous, or obviously ill animals are prohibited.