This policy outlines the necessary steps and procedures for preventing and controlling the spread of diseases among dogs within our facility, ensuring a high standard of health and welfare.
Guidance:
Implementing stringent disease prevention and control measures is critical to maintaining the health and welfare of dogs in our care. This policy helps prevent outbreaks of illness, ensures rapid response to health issues, and maintains our facility’s reputation as a safe and professional breeding environment.
Vaccinations:
- Primary Vaccination: Describe your routine for administering primary vaccinations to new arrivals or puppies, including the schedule and types of vaccines administered.
- Booster Vaccination Detail the schedule for booster vaccinations, ensuring long-term immunity against common diseases.
- Record Keeping Maintain accurate vaccination records, including dates and types of vaccines administered. Utilise a digital tracking system or veterinary software to monitor upcoming vaccinations and ensure no dog misses their scheduled booster.
Parasite Treatments
- Routine Treatments Specify your routine for regular parasite control, including treatments for fleas, ticks, and worms. Include the frequency of treatments and products used.
- Record Keeping Keep detailed records of all parasite treatments administered, with dates and specifics of each application.
Daily Health Checks
- Conduct daily health inspections for each dog to identify any signs of illness or distress early. Document findings and any actions taken in response to health concerns.
Use of Disinfectants
- Specify the disinfectants used in daily, weekly, and monthly cleaning routines. Ensure that all disinfectants are vet-approved and effective against a broad spectrum of bacteria and viruses, including parvovirus.
Isolation Procedures for Sick Dogs
- Immediate Isolation Describe how an ill dog is immediately isolated from the rest of the population. Detail the isolation facilities and the procedures for handling the sick dog.
- Protective Measures List the protective gear required for staff interacting with isolated dogs, such as disposable gloves and gowns, to prevent cross-contamination.
- Post-Illness Cleaning After recovery or removal of the sick dog, detail the deep cleaning and disinfecting process for the isolation area and any items used by the dog.
Operational Considerations
- Emergency Contact Maintain a 24-hour veterinary contact for emergencies. Establish protocols for both in-house veterinary visits and transport of animals to veterinary facilities, ensuring minimal risk of disease spread.
- Staff TrainingTrain all staff on the early signs of illness, proper use of disinfectants, and the specific protocols for handling sick dogs.
- Facility Management Regularly inspect and maintain the facility to prevent environmental factors that could contribute to disease spread. Ensure proper ventilation, cleanliness, and structural integrity of all kennel areas.