Section R432-101-19 - Pets in Hospitals(1) If a licensee permits pets in the facility, the licensee shall develop a written policy in accordance with this rule and local ordinances.(2) Household pets, such as dogs, cats, birds, fish, and hamsters, may be permitted if the licensee ensures the following: (a) pets are clean and disease free;(b) the immediate environment of pets is kept clean;(c) small pets, including birds and hamsters are in appropriate enclosures;(d) pets not confined in enclosures are hand held, under leash control, or under voice control; and(e) pets that live at the hospital or are frequent visitors have current vaccinations, including rabies, as recommended by a licensed veterinarian.(3) The licensee shall develop and follow written policies and procedures for pet care.(4)(a) The administrator or designee shall determine which pets may be brought into the hospital.(b) A patient's family member may bring the patient's pet to visit if they have approval from the administrator and offer reasonable assurance that the pet is clean, disease free, and vaccinated as appropriate.(5) If a licensee permits birds, they shall develop and follow procedures that protect patients, staff, and visitors from psittacosis and ensure:(a) procedures outline minimum handling of droppings; and(b) droppings are placed in a plastic bag for disposal.(6) If a licensee permits pets to be kept overnight, they shall develop and follow written policies and procedures for the care, feeding, and housing of pets and for proper storage of pet food and supplies.(7) The licensee may not permit pets in food preparation or storage areas.(8) The licensee may not permit pets in any area where their presence would create a significant health or safety risk to others.(9) The licensee shall ensure that a person caring for any pets does not have patient care or food handling responsibilities.Utah Admin. Code R432-101-19
Amended by Utah State Bulletin Number 2023-22, effective 11/1/2023