R432-270-27. Pets

(1) The licensee may allow a resident to keep household pets such as dogs, cats, birds, fish, and hamsters if permitted by local ordinance and by facility policy. (2) The licensee shall ensure any pet is kept clean and disease-free. (3) The licensee shall ensure any pet's environment is kept clean. (4) The licensee shall ensure any small pet, such as a bird or hamster, is kept in an appropriate enclosure. (5) The licensee may not permit a pet that displays aggressive behavior in the facility. (6) The licensee shall ensure that any pet that is kept at the facility or is a frequent visitor has current vaccinations. (7) Upon approval of the administrator, a family member may bring a resident's pets to visit. (8) Each licensee that permits birds shall have procedures that prevent the transmission of psittacosis. The licensee shall ensure that procedures involve the minimum handling and placing of droppings into a closed plastic bag for disposal. (9) The licensee may not permit pets in central food preparation, storage, or dining areas, or in any area where their presence would create a significant health or safety risk to others.