Pet Therapy Part X: Laws & Checklists
The following recommendations are from the American Veterinary Medical Association:
Laws Governing AAA, AAT and RA Programs
Most states allow animals in long term healthcare facilities and other institutions, with some restrictions. Animals are usually not allowed in food preparation and serving rooms or in areas where sterile conditions are maintained. Health certificates for animals may be required. Program organizers should check with state and local officials for specific regulations.
Liability
Most institutions should be able to include an AAA, AAT or RA program as one of their operational programs without additional insurance riders. Individuals providing AAA, AAT, or RA programs for these institutions should be able to obtain protection for their work under their existing individual or agency personal insurance policy. They may also be covered under the institution's insurance policy as a welcomed visitor. In all cases, the institution, agency, therapist, and volunteers should consult their respective insurance agents to ensure adequate protection.
Getting Started
An AAA, AAT, or RA program should be implemented only after there has been adequate advance preparation and discussion by everyone involved. Program organizers should be familiar with AAA, AAT, and RA concepts, available animal certification methods and programs, and national, state, and local laws pertaining to use of animals in facilities. Good communication among all individuals involved is essential. Roles of participants must be clearly defined and basic standards must be established to protect human and animal health, ensure the safety of participants, manage associated risks, and appropriately allocate program resources. Workload for program and facility staff must be appropriately and carefully managed, and adequate training must be provided. Participants must understand and respect principles of confidentiality. All AAA, AAT and RA programs should include a veterinarian as a key participant so the health and well being of humans and animals involved are protected.
Checklist
- Assess the need for an AAA, AAT or RA program. Will it augment, and can it be readily incorporated into, existing treatment programs?
- Establish realistic and measurable goals and objectives. Evaluate staff, facility and financial resources to ensure that implementation is feasible.
- Gain acceptance for your program by explaining its potential to key administrators and enlisting their assistance during development of protocols.
- Determine what animals will best serve the needs of program participants. Consider the population to be served and any physical and psychological limitations. Become familiar with existing health department regulations concerning animals in facilities, because certain animals may be prohibited. If animals are to be resident, their husbandry must be addressed.
- Develop protocols and training programs for staff, volunteers, and animals.
- Assess zoonotic disease risks and develop appropriate procedures for minimizing those risks.
- Measure the successes and failures of your program through medical record charting, case studies, questionnaires, videotapes or formal research.
Good luck!