(1) If a licensee utilizes pet therapy, household pets such as a dog, cat, bird, fish, or hamster, may be permitted if:
- (a) a licensee with a bird has procedures in place that protect patients, staff, and visitors from psittacosis;
- (b) any pet is clean and disease free;
- (c) a pet that is kept at the hospital, or is a frequent visitor, has current vaccinations, including rabies, as recommended by a licensed veterinarian;
- (d) a pet that is not confined is kept under leash control or voice control;
- (e) a small pet is kept in an appropriate enclosure; and
- (f) the immediate environment of the pet is clean.
- (2) A licensee that permits a pet to remain overnight shall have policies and procedures for the care, housing and feeding, and proper storage of pet food and supplies.
- (3) The licensee may not permit a pet in any area where the pet's presence would create a significant health or safety hazard or nuisance to others.
- (4) The licensee may not permit a pet in food preparation and storage areas.
- (5) Any individual caring for a pet may not have patient care or food handling responsibilities.
KEY: health care facilities
Date of Last Change: June 5, 2026
Notice of Continuation: August 22, 2025
Authorizing, and Implemented or Interpreted Law: 26B-1-202; 26B-2-202; 26B-2-203