Current through December 27, 2024
Section 22-336-34 - Primary Enclosures and Exercise Areas(a) The provisions of this section shall apply to dog pounds on and after January 1, 2029, provided if a new construction or renovation of a dog pound commences on or after January 1, 2024, but prior to January 1, 2029, such dog pound shall comply with the provisions of this section not later than (1) the date of completion of such new construction or renovation, or (2) January 1, 2029, whichever is earlier.(b) A primary enclosure shall be provided for each dog or other domestic animal, excluding any cats, and shall be of sufficient size and design as to allow each dog or other domestic animal to stand, sit, lie down, turn around, and make other normal postural adjustments without obstruction, interference, or impediment by the presence of food, water bowls, equipment, or other animals, unless different space requirements are medically required by a Connecticut licensed veterinarian.(c) A primary enclosure for each dog shall meet the following minimum criteria: (1) For dogs weighing not more than twenty-five (25) pounds, five (5) square feet per dog; for dogs weighing more than twenty-five (25) pounds but not more than forty-five (45) pounds, nine (9) square feet per dog; and for dogs weighing more than forty-five (45) pounds, sixteen (16) square feet per dog; or provide space equal to or more than the space requirements for dogs pursuant to 9 CFR 3.6(a)(2)(xi) and 9 CFR 3.6(c)(1), as amended from time to time;(2) Walls shall be constructed up to a minimum height of six (6) feet, with the lower four (4) feet and floors being constructed of impervious surfaces, such as tile, sealed cement or concrete block treated with epoxy paint, that can be cleaned and disinfected;(3) All fencing shall not exceed a maximum one and one-half (1.5) inch wire mesh by eleven (11) minimum wire gauge to contain dogs and installed in a manner to prevent injury; and(4) Ceilings shall be cleaned and kept free of accumulated dust and debris.(d) An exercise area shall be provided for each dog, and shall meet the following minimum criteria: (1) An indoor run or outdoor run shall be provided, and shall be not less than thirty-six (36) inches wide for a dog weighing not more than forty-five (45) pounds, and forty-eight (48) inches wide for a dog weighing more than forty-five (45) pounds, or twice the number of square feet of the required primary enclosure area pursuant to subsection (b)(1) of this section, if a dog is individually housed; or an area equal to the number of dogs multiplied by the required primary enclosure area, if housed as a group. The minimum length of a run shall be eight (8) feet.(2) Walls between each indoor run or outdoor run shall extend the entire length of the run, and shall be constructed up to a minimum height of six (6) feet, with the wall being constructed of solid partition dividers between each run, from the floor to a height of at least four (4) feet.(3) The solid partition dividers and floors of indoor runs and outdoor runs shall be constructed of impervious surfaces, such as tile, sealed cement or concrete block treated with epoxy paint, that can be cleaned and disinfected.(4) Outdoor runs shall be covered by a permanent roof of suitable material to protect the runs from snow, rain and excessive sunlight and a barrier shall be provided between the top of the runs and the permanent roof to prevent the escape of dogs.(5) The doorways between a primary enclosure and an outdoor run shall be offset from center to provide adequate space for resting surfaces to be placed in the primary enclosure.(6) Outdoor runs for dogs, if provided, shall: (A) have sufficient drainage that prevents the accumulation of stagnant water,(B) be surrounded by fencing, with a minimum height of six (6) feet, to prevent escape of any dog, and(C) be kept in a safe and sanitary condition. The surface of outdoor runs shall be replaced, when necessary, in order to maintain a sanitary condition.Conn. Agencies Regs. § 22-336-34