Sec. 702.6. Animals

(a) No birds, turtles, dogs, cats or other animals exclusive of those required for laboratory purposes shall be allowed in a medical facility, except in a residential health care facility pet therapy program as permitted in subdivisions (b) and (c) of this section. Guide dogs may accompany sightless persons.

(b) A residential health care facility may board one dog or one cat, provided:

(1) the health, safety, welfare and rights of all patients/residents are assured;

(2) a staff member has been designated to be responsible for the care and management of the animal;

(3) the animal is free from disease and has received all immunizations as recommended by a licensed veterinarian; and

(4) the animal shall not be allowed in laundry, utensil storage or food preparation areas.

(c) Pet visitations are permitted in a residential health care facility, provided:

(1) the visit is prescheduled and approved by the operator;

(2) the health, safety, welfare and rights of all patients/residents are assured;

(3) all animals are free from disease and have received all immunizations as recommended by a licensed veterinarian;

(4) the animal shall not be allowed in laundry, utensil storage or food preparation areas; and

(5) the animal will at all times be accompanied by a person familiar with and capable of controlling the animal's behavior.