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{{org_field_name}}

Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

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Pets Policy

1. Purpose

This policy outlines the approach of {{org_field_name}} to managing pets within the care home environment, ensuring that the presence of animals enhances the well-being of the people we support while maintaining hygiene, safety, and infection control standards.

The policy aims to:

• Promote the physical, emotional, and social well-being of individuals through pet companionship.
• Maintain a safe and hygienic environment for all residents, staff, and visitors.
• Set out the process for risk assessment and infection control related to pets.
• Ensure compliance with CQC requirements, particularly regarding safe care and treatment (Regulation 12)​, dignity and respect (Regulation 10)​, and person-centred care (Regulation 9)​.

2. Scope

This policy applies to:

• Residents who wish to bring their own pets into the home.
• Pets visiting with family members or therapy animal providers.
• Care home pets kept in communal areas.
• Staff members who interact with pets during their duties.
• External organisations providing pet therapy services.

3. Related Policies

• CH07 – Person-Centred Care Policy
• CH08 – Dignity and Respect Policy
• CH11 – Safe Care and Treatment Policy
• CH13 – Safeguarding Adults from Abuse and Improper Treatment Policy
• CH17 – Infection Prevention and Control Policy
• CH21 – Medication Management and Administration Policy
• CH35 – Duty of Candour Policy​

4. Policy Statement

At {{org_field_name}}, we recognise the benefits that pets can bring to the lives of the people we support, including companionship, reduced loneliness, and enhanced emotional well-being. However, it is our duty to balance these benefits with health and safety considerations, ensuring that all residents, staff, and visitors are protected.

5. Guidelines for Managing Pets in the Care Home

5.1. Resident-Owned Pets

Residents may be allowed to keep their own pets within their rooms, subject to:

• A comprehensive risk assessment, considering allergies, phobias, and infection control.
• Confirmation that the resident can adequately care for the pet or that arrangements are in place for staff/family assistance.
• The pet being up to date with vaccinations, flea/worming treatments, and regular vet checks.
• Clear feeding and cleaning responsibilities.
• Consideration of potential impact on other residents (e.g., noise, behaviour).
• A signed pet agreement, outlining responsibilities for the pet’s welfare.

If the resident becomes unable to care for the pet, alternative arrangements (such as rehoming or fostering) must be made in consultation with the resident, family, and relevant professionals.

5.2. Visiting Pets (Family and Therapy Animals)

• Pre-approval required from the Registered Manager.
• Documentation of vaccination history must be provided.
• Animals must be clean, well-behaved, and under control at all times.
• Hand hygiene procedures must be followed before and after pet interaction.
• Pet-free zones (e.g., food preparation areas, medication storage areas) must be adhered to.

5.3. Care Home Pets (Communal Animals)

In some cases, communal pets may be kept in the home to enhance the environment. These must:

• Be subject to a risk assessment before introduction.
• Be housed in an appropriate, designated area.
• Receive proper veterinary care.
• Have a clear care schedule, managed by designated staff members.
• Be part of structured, supervised activities with residents.

If a resident does not wish to be around a communal pet, reasonable adjustments will be made to ensure their comfort.

6. Infection Prevention and Hygiene Measures

To prevent the spread of infection, the following measures must be enforced:

• Routine handwashing after handling pets.
• Regular cleaning of pet living areas.
• Proper disposal of pet waste.
• Restricted access to food preparation areas.
• Immediate response to any pet-related incidents (e.g., bites, scratches).

If an individual is immunocompromised, the Infection Control Lead will assess whether pet interactions are safe for them​.

7. Staff Responsibilities

• Registered Manager:
  • Ensures compliance with the CQC regulations related to health, safety, and infection control​.
  • Conducts risk assessments for resident pets, visiting animals, and communal pets.
  • Approves visiting pets and maintains necessary records.
• Infection Control Lead:
  • Oversees infection control measures for pet interactions.
  • Reviews vaccination records and pet hygiene compliance.
• Care Staff:
  • Support residents in pet care, if required.
  • Ensure compliance with hygiene procedures.
• Kitchen & Housekeeping Teams:
  • Maintain pet-free zones in food preparation and medication storage areas.
  • Ensure pet waste is disposed of hygienically.

8. Risk Management and Complaints

8.1. Risk Assessments

Each pet situation will be risk-assessed individually, considering:

• Potential allergies or phobias among residents or staff.
• Health conditions that could be impacted by pet interactions.
• Behavioural considerations, ensuring animals do not pose a risk.
• Legal considerations, including local authority regulations.

Risk assessments will be reviewed annually or if circumstances change.

8.2. Managing Incidents and Complaints

Any incidents involving pets (e.g., bites, scratches, allergic reactions) must be:

• Reported immediately to the Registered Manager.
• Recorded in the incident log as per the CH24 – Management of Accidents, Incidents, and Near Misses Policy​.
• Investigated, with actions taken to prevent recurrence.
• If necessary, discussed with external agencies (e.g., local authorities, veterinary services).

Any complaints regarding pets will be handled in line with the CH14 – Receiving and Acting on Complaints Policy​.

9. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or earlier if legislative changes or business needs require updates. {{org_field_name}} remains committed to ensuring a safe, inclusive, and pet-friendly environment, where the well-being of all residents remains the priority.

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Responsible Person: {{org_field_registered_manager_first_name}} {{org_field_registered_manager_last_name}}
Reviewed on: {{last_update_date}}
Next Review Date: {{next_review_date}}
Copyright © {{current_year}} – {{org_field_name}}. All rights reserved.