R432-750-32. Pets in the Facility

(1) The licensee may allow patients to keep household pets such as dogs, cats, birds, fish, and hamsters if permitted by local ordinances. (2) The licensee shall ensure that: (a) each pet is clean and disease-free; (b) each pet that is not confined is under leash control or voice control; (c) each pet that resides at the facility has documented current vaccinations; (d) the pet environment is clean; and (e) each small pet is in an appropriate enclosure. (3)(a) Upon approval of the hospice administrator, a family member may bring a patient's pets to visit. (b) The hospice administrator shall ensure that the visiting pets have current vaccinations. (4)(a) A licensee that allows birds shall have procedures that prevent the transmission of psittacosis. (b) Procedures shall ensure minimal handling of droppings and placing of droppings into a closed plastic bag for disposal. (5) Pets may not be permitted in food preparation, storage, or central dining areas, or in any area where their presence would create a significant health or safety risk to others.