Animals and Pets

Animals and Pets 1. Any pet or animal present at a child care facility, indoors or outdoors, shall be in good health, show no evidence of carrying any disease, and be a friendly companion for the children. 2. Dogs or cats, where allowed, shall be immunized for any disease that can be transmitted to humans, and shall be maintained on a flea, tick, and worm control program. 3. All pets shall be cared for as recommended by the regulating health agency. When pets are kept at the child care facility, procedures for their care and maintenance shall be written and followed. When immunizations are required, proof of current compliance signed by a veterinarian shall be on file at the child care facility where the pet is kept. a. A caregiver shall always be present when children are exposed to animals (including dogs and cats). Children shall be instructed on safe procedures to follow when in close proximity to these animals (e.g., not to provoke or startle them or remove their food). Potentially aggressive animals (e.g., pit bulls, boxers, etc.) shall not be in the same physical space with the children. . b. Each child’s hands shall be properly washed after being exposed to animals. Source: Miss. Code Ann. §43-20-8. Subchapter 13: General Nutritional Standards: Proper nutrition and healthy eating habits are essential to a child's overall development, as well as their long-term health. Cultivating healthy habits by choosing a variety of well-planned, balanced meals and snacks helps lower the risk of chronic disease and supports a healthy, active lifestyle.