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LICENCE CONDITIONS AND GUIDANCE FOR DOGBOARDING ESTABLISHMENTS

ANIMAL BOARDING ESTABLISHMENTS ACT 1963

Last updated April 2010

CONTENTS

1 INTRODUCTION 2

2 LICENCE DISPLAY 3

3 CONSTRUCTION 4

3.1 GENERAL 43.2 WALLS AND PARTITIONS 6

3.3 FLOORS 7

3.4 CEILINGS 8

3.5 DOORS 83.6 WINDOWS 8

3.7 DRAINAGE 9

3.8 LIGHTING 9

3.9 VENTILATION 93.10 MAINTENANCE 10

4 NUMBERS OF ANIMALS 104.1 NUMBERS OF DOGS PERMITTED 104.2 KENNEL SIZE, LAYOUT AND EXERCISE FACILITIES 11

5 MANAGEMENT 135.1 TRAINING 13

5.2 TEMPERATURE IN KENNELS 13

5.3 CLEANLINESS 15

5.4 FOOD AND WATER SUPPLIES 175.5 KITCHEN FACILITIES 17

5.6 DISEASE CONTROL AND VACCINATION 18

5.7 ISOLATION 205.8 REGISTER 21

5.9 IDENTIFICATION OF KENNELS 21

5.10 SUPERVISION 225.11 FIRE PRECAUTIONS 22

6 DOG SITTING SERVICES 23

7 OTHER RELEVANT LEGISLATION 24HEALTH AND SAFETY AT WORK ETC ACT 1974 24ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION ACT 1990 25

ELECTRICITY AT WORK REGULATIONS 1989 26

CONTROL OF SUBSTANCES HAZARDOUS TO HEALTH REGULATIONS 26

CONTROLLED WASTE REGULATIONS 1992 27

THE CONTROL OF DOGS ORDER 1992 27

DANGEROUS DOGS ACT 1991 27

1 INTRODUCTION

Local Authorities issue licences to proprietors of boarding kennels under the provisions ofThe Animal Boarding Establishments Act 1963. The licence can stipulate a number ofconditions to secure the following objectives:

i) that dogs are kept in accommodation suitable in respect of construction, size,temperature, lighting, ventilation and cleanliness;

ii) that dogs are adequately supplied with suitable food and drink, and are visited atsuitable intervals;

iii) that dogs are kept secure;

iv) that reasonable precautions are taken to prevent the spread of infectious diseases;

v) that appropriate steps be taken in the event of an emergency that a suitableconsistent level of management is maintained.

In 1993 The Chartered Institute of Environmental Health (CIEH) published comprehensiveguidance and model licence conditions to ensure that a consistent approach wasmaintained in the issuing of licences and the enforcement of the legislation by localauthorities.

Following the publication of the guidance and model conditions it became apparent that theconditions were being applied by some local authorities too rigidly and without due regardto the detailed guidance notes, which in the original document, were separated from themodel conditions. The Guidance Notes provided a detailed explanation for the conditionsand provided a framework for a consistent approach while allowing freedom ofinterpretation and flexibility to be applied by the licensing authorities in accordance withlocal circumstances.

A working group consisting of CIEH, Association of District Councils (ADC), BritishVeterinary Association (BVA), British Small Animal Veterinary Association (BSAVA), FelineAdvisory Bureau (FAB) and the Pet Trade and Industry Association (PTIA) met to considerchanges in the format of the guidance and model conditions based on the CIEH's originalwork in order to improve the readability, interpretation and consistent application of thedocument. This booklet and its companion volume dealing with cat boardingestablishments contains the model conditions and guidance together with additionalinformation will be of considerable value to both the industry and enforcement officers.

It should be stressed that the aim of licence conditions is to ensure high standards ofanimal care and health and safety are maintained in animal boarding establishments. Ifvariations to the model conditions are made local authorities should bear in mind that theprincipal aim must still be met.

In new establishments there is an expectation that all appropriate conditions should be metas a basic minimum standard. In existing establishments it is accepted that some of theconditions may need to be phased in over a period of time by agreement between theestablishment owner and the local authority in which case a licence, subject to an agreedscheme of works and a suitable realistic timescale for implementation should be issued.

2 Licence Display

The principal legislation dealing with Animal Boarding Establishments isthe Animal Boarding Establishments Act 1963 which addresses theareas to be covered by the licence relating to animal welfare andmanagement. It is essential that consumers and those responsible forpremises management are aware of the licence conditions:

2.1 A copy of the licence and its conditionsmust be suitably displayed to the public ina prominent position in, on or about theboarding establishment.

Notes: If displayed externally,the licence and its conditionsshould be protected from theweather. Preferably the licenceshould be displayed in thereception area.

The number of dogs for whichthe premises is licensed, thenumber of isolation and holdingkennels must be specified onthe licence. Guidance to theirnumbers are found in the notesbelow.

Other legislation and issues to be taken into consideration by kennelowners are:

Insurance

Notes: Adequate insuranceindemnity should be arrangedby the operator of the premises.This should be maintained at asufficient level to cover themaximum number of dogsboarded. Several companiesoffer policies specific to animalboarding establishments.Details are often advertised inpet publications.

Proprietors of animal boardingestablishments are able toinsure purely the liability aspectby taking out third party liabilitycover. In addition, you caninsure against veterinary feesfor accident and illness, deathfrom accidents, death fromillness and loss from theft andstraying. You must insureagainst public liability.

Employer’s Liabili ty Insuranceis mandatory for boarding

establishment owners whoemploy staff. EmployersLiability (CompulsoryInsurance) Act 1969.

Certificates of insurance mustbe prominently displayed.

Staff Facilities

Notes: Adequate toilet andwashing facilities must beavailable for staff in accordancewith health and safetyrequirements.

An adequate First Aid kit mustbe available for staff use.

Staff should be adequatelytrained in the safe handling ofdogs, emergency procedures tobe followed, and all otheraspects of the licenceconditions which are pertinentto their work. Staff should alsobe regularly vaccinated againstTetanus.

Establishments receivingboth dogs and cats

Notes: When the granting of thelicence is being considered bythe local authority, there will bea presumption against cats anddogs being kept within sight ofeach other, unless good reasoncan be made otherwise. (Seecompanion booklet on modellicence conditions and guidancefor cat boardingestablishments.)

In consideration of ‘GoodReasons’ existing facilities andmanagement must be taken intoaccount.

3 Construction3.1 GENERAL

3.1.1 The establishment must, at all times, belaid out and operated with an approvedplan, to be attached to the licence.Before carrying out any alterations,plans must be submitted to andapproved by the licensing officer of the

Notes: The conversion ofexisting buildings should bediscouraged. Experienceshows that they may be moreexpensive to adapt and lessefficient to operate.

At least 20% of the individual

local planning authority. exercise runs must be coveredwith a suitable mesh.

3.1.2 Where wood has been used in existingconstruction it must be smooth andtreated to render it impervious. Woodshould not be used in exposedconstruction of walls, floors, partitions,door frames or doors in the dogkennelling area. There must be noprojections liable to cause injury.

Where galvanized welded meshis used for fencing the wire,diameter must not be less than2.0mm (14 standard wiregauge) excluding any coveringand the mesh size must notexceed 5.0cm (2”)

3.1.3 Fencing material must be secure andsafe.

Application for building worksmay well require approval fromthe building control departmentand/or the planning department.

3.1.4 Sleeping areas of kennels must be soinsulated as to prevent extremes oftemperature.

The interior and exterior of thebuildings should be kept ingood decorative order andrepair. Outer paths, gardens,exercise areas and generalsurroundings must be kept in agood, clean, well presentablecondition. Failure to complywith this recommendation maybe a consideration in anydecision by the local authorityto withdraw the licence for anyreason

3.1.5. The construction must be such that thesecurity of the dog is ensured.

A safe system of work mustensure correct use of chemicalsand materials used in thekennel and must includeconstructional details suitable toreduce spread of infection,disease and contamination.

3.1.6 All exterior wood must be properlytreated against wood rot, e.g.Tanalised. Only products which are nottoxic to dogs may be used.

Wood in kennels: The purposeof avoiding wood on surfacesstructures of kennel interiors isbecause of the possibility ofdamage to the material causedby scratching animals. Wornand splintered material isdifficult to clean, harboursbacteria, viruses etc and allowsthe splinters produced topenetrate the animal’s skin.

3.1.7 All internal surfaces used in theconstruction of walls, floors, partitions,doors and door frames are to bedurable, smooth and impervious. Theremust be no projections or rough edges

The whole point of hygienic andsafe practice is to provide easyto clean surfaces.

liable to cause injury.

3.2 WALLS AND PARTITIONS

3.2.1 Walls with which dogs may come intocontact must be of smooth, imperviousmaterials, capable of being easilycleansed. Where concrete or otherbuilding blocks are used in such walls,they must be sealed so as to be smoothand impervious, and resealed asnecessary.

Notes: This condition is toprovide a physical barrier toinfection. It will also reduceaggression while allowingsocialisation.

3.2.2 Junctions between vertical andhorizontal sections should be coved. Ifimpractical in existing premises, alljoints must be sealed.

Suitable materials for theconstruction of partition wallswould be properly surfacedimpervious brick/blockconstructions, moulded plastic,glass reinforced plastic (GRP),pre-formed plastic surfaceboard etc. Such solidconstruction may be from floorto ceiling, but this should not bedetrimental to otherconsiderations such as thedog’s outlook, lighting andventilation. Sealing refers tothe use of a proprietary waterproofing agent for sealing thewall against damp penetration.Under certain circumstancessealing of brickwork can only beachieved by rendering prior tosealing.

3.2.3 Partition walls between kennels must be ofsolid construction to a minimum height of1.2m (4ft)

In individual exercise areas it isrecommended that the solidpartition be of a minimum675mm (27 inches) high fromthe ground and in existingconstruction this conditionshould be phased in over asuitable period taking intoconsideration existingconstruction and the conditionof the kennels.

3.2.4 In new construction, in exercise runs thelower section of partitions in adjoining runsmust be of solid construction.

3.3 FLOORS

3.3.1Floors of all buildings, individualexercise areas and kennels, must be ofsmooth, impervious materials, capableof being easily cleansed and in newkennels must incorporate a damp proofmembrane. Notes: Floors of kennels and

related exercise areas shouldbe constructed in imperviousmaterial and be readilycleansable while providingsufficient grip for the animal towalk or run without sustaininginjury.

3.3.23.3.2 All floors of kennels and individualexercise areas must be constructed andmaintained in such a condition as toprevent ponding of liquids.

Drainage channels should beprovided near to the kenneledge so that urine is notallowed to pass over walkareas in corridors andcommunal access areas. It isreasonable to face a beddingarea in the opposite directionto the exercise area if separatedrainage channels areappropriately sited. Beforebeginning any alterations youare advised to contact thebuilding control section of thelocal authority. Waste wateroutlets may need approval fromthe National Rivers Authority(contact your local area officefor advice).

3.3.3 In new construction floors must be laid toa minimum fall of 1 in 80 leading to ashallow drainage channel or effectivelycovered deep drainage channel.

Communal facilities must notbe used by more than one dogat any one time unless they arefrom the same household.

Communal exercise areasshould generally bediscouraged - see Notes inSection 4.

3.3.4 Communal exercise areas must be

suitably drained but need not comply withconditions 3.3.1 and 3.3.2.

3.4 CEILINGS

3.4.1 3.4.1 Ceilings must be capable of beingeasily cleansed and disinfected. Notes: Where kennels are

provided, within convertedoutbuildings, considerationshould be given to ease ofcleaning, energy conservation,wildlife access, lighting andventilation.

3.5 DOORS

3.5.1 Kennel doors must be strong enough toresist impact and scratching and mustbe fitted to be capable of beingeffectively secured.

Notes: See also GeneralConstruction for galvanisedwelded mesh use (Section 3.1).

3.5.2 Where metal bars and frames areused, they must be of suitable gauge(approximately 10-14) with spacingadequate to prevent dogs escaping orbecoming entrapped. Where metaledging is used, this must not present arisk of injury to the dog.

Galvanised Weld Mesh shouldbe a minimum of 2 mm (14gauge) in thickness. It isrecommended that the spacingof the wire should not exceed50 mm (2 inches).

3.5.3 Door openings must be constructedsuch that the passage of water/waste isnot impeded, or allowed to gather dueto inaccessibility.

When designing kennel doorsregard should be paid to theHealth and Safety of theperson working in the kennel,for example large dogs maypush against the door whichmay give rise to difficulties insecuring the door and even toaccidents to the person on theopposite side of the door whenit opens outwards. Thereforeconsideration could be givento opening the outer door in aninward direction in theinterests of staff safety.

3.6 WINDOWS

3.6.1 All windows which pose a security risk Notes: Windows when asecurity risk must be protected

must be escape proof at all times. by welded mesh, or be madeof reinforced glass,polycarbonate or other impactresistant material.

3.7 DRAINAGE

3.7.1 The establishment must be connectedto mains drainage or an approved,localised sewage disposal system.

3.8 LIGHTING

3.8.1 During daylight hours light must beprovided to exercise and sleepingareas so that all parts are clearlyvisible. Where practicable this must benatural light.

Notes: Natural and artificiallighting must be of sufficientstandard to enable efficientworking after daylight hours.

3.8.2 Adequate supplementary lighting mustbe provided throughout theestablishment.

3.9 VENTILATION

Ventilation must be provided to allinterior areas without the creation ofexcessive, localised draughts in thebedding area.

Notes: Draughts can be theoutcome of ventilation providedfor animal health. Heating canequally be removed by ventilation.A balance is necessary benveenadequate ventilation and theunnecessary removal of wannair.

Ventilation is important as an aidto disease control, a protectionagainst smell accumulation, andprevents excessive humidity ofthe atmosphere. High humidityincreases the risk of kennelcough and should be avoided.Siting of the bed is an importantconsideration. Raising the bedand providing adequate protectivesides to allow the dog "depth" toseek protection are

considerations in protecting thedog.

3.10 MAINTENANCE

3.10.1 Maintenance and repair of the wholeestablishment must be carried outregularly.

4 NUMBERS OF ANIMALS4.1 NUMBERS OF DOGS PERMITTED

4.1.1 The maximum number of dogs to bekept at any one time is..................................................................[TO BE DETERMINEDBY THE LOCAL AUTHORITY].

Notes: The number of dogspermitted relates to the numberand size of the kennels and mustbe stipulated cleanly on the frontsheet of the displayed licence.The decision regarding thenumber of dogs, as well asconsidering kennel size andnumbers, will take into accountthe effectiveness of sitemanagement.

4.1.2 Each dog must be provided with aseparate kennel except that dogs fromthe same household may share akennel of adequate size with thewritten consent of the dogs' owner.

Dogs from the same family whonormally live together, may preferto share a kennel. It is arequirement that operators obtainwritten authorisation from the dogowner before kennel sharing isallowed. Where sharing occursthe clogs must be able to lie downcomfortably in the sleeping area,with sufficient space for the doorto open fully.

4.1.3 Holding kennels may be provided fortemporarily kennelling a dog for notmore than 24 hours. Holding kennels,if provided, must comply withconditions as required for mainkennels. Holding kennels must be aminimum area of 2.3 sq m (25 sq ft)

Holding Kennels - The number ofholding kennels provided shouldbe agreed between the kennelowner and the local authority andnoted on the licence. In generalholding kennels should notconstitute more than 25% of thetotal number of residentialkennels.

4.1.4 No animals other than dogs are to beboarded within the licensed facilities

Identification and Control of Dogson Site - The Control of DogsOrder 1992 requires that all dogs,

without the written approval of the localauthority.

whilst in a public area, must weara collar and tag stating the nameand address of the owner. It isrecommended that all dogsboarded at the establishmentshould wear a collar and tagidentifi'ing the name of the owner,or have the collar and tag securedimmediately outside the kennel.This will assist in the identification.It will also assist staff with dogcontrol if one tries to escape, or ifthere is a fire or other emergency.In the case of sharing it will benecessary to take the collars offand hang them outside thekennel.

4.1.5 Where stray dogs are accepted by thekennels they must be kept in aseparate area away from boardeddogs.

Dangerous Dogs - Dogs subjectto contracts under currentDangerous Dogs Legislation musthave a copy of the licence andinsurance certificate lodged withthe boarding kennel.

4.2 KENNEL SIZE, LAYOUT AND EXERCISE FACILITIES

4.2.1 For new kennels each kennel must beprovided with a sleeping area of atleast 1.9 sq m (20 sq ft).

4.2.2 Suitable bedding equipment must beprovided which allows the dog to becomfortable and which is capable ofbeing easily and adequately cleanedand sanitised. Such equipment mustbe sited out of draughts. All beddingmaterial must be maintained in a clean,parasite free and dry condition.

During kennel construction it isnecessary to use an appropriatedesign and correct materials toovercome problems of noiseemission and to ensure energyconservation. This is in order tominimise discomfort to the dogand to minimise the risk ofnuisance to persons in the vicinityof the site.

4.2.3 For new kennels each kennel must beprovided with an exercise area of at least2.46 sq m (26 sq ft) (for dogs up to 24inches high at shoulder) or 36 sq ft forlarger dogs, which is separate from the

Adverse Weather - in adverseweather conditions theresponsible person mustdecide whether or not dogs aregiven free access to their

bedding area and exclusive to that kennel,for free use by the dog at all times exceptat night.

exercise area.

4.2.4 Kennels must have a minimum height of1.8m (6 ft) to facilitate adequate access bykennel staff for cleaning.

In existing kennels the newsize requirements for exerciseareas should be phased in overa number of years afterconsultation between thekennel owner and localauthority taking into accountlocal circumstances. Thisexercise area should be roofedto a minimum of half the area,sufficient to give the dogprotection against the weather.

4.2.5 Kennels and exercise areas must openonto secure corridors or other secureareas so that dogs are not able to escapefrom the premises.

Some of this should betranslucent material capable offiltering UV light and providingadequate shade.

4.2.6 Exercise areas must not be used asbedding areas. Communal Areas for Exercise:

In general, communal areasshould be discouragedbecause of the risk of diseasespread, in particular worms,and fighting. With theprovision of individual exerciseareas to each kennel, the extraprovision of a communal areaneed not be provided. Surfaceponding of water must notoccur and land drainage shouldbe provided where necessary ifnormal site drainage provesinadequate.

The risk of spreading disease,in particular worms, isincreased by use of communalareas.

All communal exercise areasshould be provided with animpervious cleansable surfaceat least around the perimeter(concrete, laid to a suitable fallto prevent ponding andpromote drainage).

5 MANAGEMENT

5.1 TRAINING

5.1.1 A written training policy must be provided.Systematic training of staff must bedemonstrated to have been carried out.

Notes: The licensee mustformulate a written trainingpolicy for permanent, part timeand seasonal workers. Thefollowing are regarded asessential topics to be coveredin the programme:

Animal WelfareCleanliness and HygieneFeeding and Food PreparationDisease ControlRecognition andTreatment of SickAnimals Health andSafetyEmergency Procedures

Transportation of Animals

All vehicles used by theestablishment for thetransportation of dogs must beregularly serviced and keptclean. They must be fitted withcages of adequate size for thesafe transportation of dogs andbe provided with adequateventilation. All vehicles mustbe secure and should not beleft unattended whentransporting a dog.

5.2 TEMPERATURE IN KENNELS

5.2.1 Heating facilities must be available in thekennel and used according to therequirements of the individual dog. Notes: Many kennels have

been built without properconcern for the welfare of thedog. The materials used onthe kennel exterior may notoffer adequate protectionagainst temperature variationsthroughout the majority of theyear.

There will be periods in the yearwhere ambient externaltemperatures will causetemperatures to fluctuateabove or below therecommended levels. If thehigher temperature level isexceeded due to constructuralshortcomings rather thannormal ambient temperaturethen artificial means ofcounteracting this hightemperature should beintroduced.

5.2.2There must be some part of the dog'ssleeping area where the dog is able toenjoy a temperature of at least 10°C(50°F).

Where temperatures lower thanindicated are reached the useof individual heating lamps fordogs may prove adequate. Insome circumstances additionalbackground heating will also berequired.The temperature of theisolation kennels should not beallowed to fall below 15.5oC(60oF) generally, unlessspecific advice is given to thecontrary by the VeterinarySurgeon.

5.2.3 In isolation kennels there should be ameans of maintaining the temperature at alevel suitable for the conditions of the dogand dependent on veterinary advice.

The difficulty of providingmaximum temperature levels isacknowledged. 26oC (79oF) isa realistic temperature whichshould not be exceeded innormal circumstances.

It is important to remember thata minimum temperature of10oC (50oF) is required, and ifinadequate attention has beengiven to construction andinsulation it will be necessaryto use additional heating andthereby increase running costs.Failure to provide additionalheating will cause dogs tosuffer. Particular attentionshould be paid to design andconstruction. Geographicalorientation is also relevant.Aspect affects temperature. Itis often difficult to maintainadequate temperatures with

north facing openings. Correctattention to orientation of thekennel will allow maximum useof natural light.

Similarly in summertemperatures, poorly insulatedexteriors will allow internaltemperatures to build up(similar to car interiors) toexcessive levels. Even withadditional ventilation the dogswill suffer.

Some summer temperatureswill naturally exceed 26oC(79oF). Inadequateconstruction or ventilation ofthe kennels must not be anexcuse to allow unnecessarilyhigh temperatures beingattained.

Where temperatures are likelyto rise above the maximumlevels specified in the notesthere should be some means ofmechanical or automaticcooling/ventilation.

A safe system of heating mustbe provided so that risks ofelectrocution and burning areavoided. Open flameappliances must not be used.

5.3 CLEANLINESS

5.3.1 All kennels, corridors, common areas,kitchens etc must be kept clean andfree from accumulations of dirt anddust and must be kept in such amanner as to be conducive tomaintenance of disease control anddog comfort.

Notes: Arrangements must bemade with the Waste CollectionAuthority or wastemanagement contractorauthorised for the pia/rases ofthe duty of care, for removal ofotter wastes from theestablishment under theEnvironmental Protection Act1990. Foul waste water mustbe disposed of by discharge tothe approved drainage system.

5.3.2 Each occupied kennel must becleansed daily. All excreta and soiledmaterial must be removed from allareas used by dogs at least daily andmore often if necessary.

Cleaning

There are a range ofalternative cleaning regimes.

Basically the regime shouldinclude:

5.3.3 All bedding areas must be kept cleanand dry.

1 Removal of solids2 Washing3 Disinfection4 Drying

5.3.4 Each kennel must be thoroughlycleansed, disinfected and dried uponvacation. All fittings and bedding mustalso be thoroughly cleansed anddisinfected at that time.

The physical collection (shoveland bucket) of faeces is usual.

The use of detergent and waterwill "wash down”. Equallypressure hoses or steamcleaning will wash down moreeffectively.

There is a need to controlbacteria, viruses, fungi withinthe sanitizing process.

5.3.5 Facilities must be provided for theproper reception, storage and disposalof all waste. Particular care should betaken to segregate clinical waste arisingfrom the treatment and handling ofdogs with infectious diseases. Thefinal disposal route for all such wastemust be incineration.

There is little point in puttingdown disinfectant only to washit away in a short period oftime. The long term activity ofchemicals used in the controlof viruses, bacteria and fungishould be considered.

Great care should be takenwhen using any chlorine basedchemical, eg bleach. (Seenotes of COSHH)

5.3.6 Measures must be taken to keepminimise the risks from rodents,insects and other pests within theestablishment.

Combinations of bactericides,fungicides and virucides mayprove expensive to use andmay not necessarily be thebest system to use.

There is a balance between thedog enjoying a knownenvironment and introducinginfection and infestation inwickerwork baskets and oldclothing/bedding etc. Staffhandling between kennelsfurther increases the risk ofdisease spread. While owners'own baskets and bedding mayhelp a dog to settle, particularlyduring its first stay in boardingconditions, their use should bediscouraged as there is noimmediate control overcleanliness and parasitetransmission.

5.4 FOOD AND WATER SUPPLIES

5.4.1 All dogs must be adequately suppliedwith suitable food. Wholesome watermust be available at all times andchanged daily.

Notes: Dogs should be fed to astandard compatible with themaintenance of health.Inspectors will observe thegeneral nutritional status of thedogs and the type and qualityof food in store and in theprocess of preparation. Ifnecessary, a veterinarysurgeon will be called in toadvise.

5.4.2 Eating and drinking vessels must becapable of being easily cleansed anddisinfected to prevent cross-contamination. They must bemaintained in a clean condition.

Food should not be left forexcessive periods within thekennel in order to avoid smellsand flies. More food and watermay be required for old oryoung dogs. No food shouldbe left outside at night.

5.4.3 Eating vessels must be cleansedafter each meal.

Disposable eating dishes,although expensive, arerecommended as hygienicsince they cannot transmitinfection and are a saving oftime and labour since they areimmediately disposable.Expanded polystyrene is not asuitable material for this use.

5.4.4 Drinking vessels must be cleansed atleast once a day.

5.5 KITCHEN FACILITIES

5.5.1 Exclusive facilities, hygienicallyconstructed and maintained, must beprovided for the storage and preparationof food for the dogs.

5.5.2 Where fresh and cooked meats arestored, refrigeration facilities must beprovided, and potential foodcontamination must be avoided.

5.5.3 A sink with hot and cold water must be

provided for the washing of foodequipment and eating and drinkingvessels. A separate wash-hand basinwith hot and cold water must be providedfor staff use.

5.5.4 Containers must be provided for thestorage of foods and shall be soconstructed and kept in such good order,repair and condition as to be proofagainst insects and other pests.

5.6 DISEASE CONTROL AND VACCINATION

5.6.1 Adequate precautions must be taken toprevent and control the spread ofinfectious and contagious disease andparasites amongst the dogs, staff andvisitors.

Notes: "Other relevantdiseases" allows for theinsertion of diseases whichmay as yet be unknown butwhich may be regarded asimportant in the fare or whichmay be added according tocircumstances.

5.6.2 Proof must be provided that dogsboarded or resident have currentvaccinations against Canine Distemper,Infectious Canine Hepatitis (Canineadenovirus), Leptospirosis (L. canicolaand L. icteaohaemorrhagiae) and CanineParvovirus and other relevant diseases.The course of vaccination must havebeen completed at least four weeksbefore the first date of boarding or inaccordance with manufacturersinstructions. A record that this proof hasbeen supplied must be kept on-sitethroughout the period that the dog isboarded.

Four weeks is the maximumtime for all current vaccines tobecome fully effective. Ashorter time is acceptable ifsuitable veterinary evidence isprovided, based onmanufacturers' instructions.For example, intra-nasalvaccination for Bordatellabronchiseptiea (part of theKennel Cough complex) isregarded as giving solidprotection after only 5 days.

5.6.3 Advice from a veterinary surgeon mustbe sought in case of signs of disease,injury or illness. Where any dog is sickor injured any instructions for its

Vaccination against KennelCough should be encouraged.Kennel owners should seekthe advice of their Veterinary

treatment which have been given by aveterinary surgeon must be strictlyfollowed.

Surgeon regardingaccomplishment of this, as thedisease is generally regardedas being multi-factorial.

5.6.4 A well stocked first-aid kit suitable foruse on dogs must be available andaccessible on site.

It is important that there arefacilities and procedures forcleansing and disease controland that staff are familiar withthe procedures and understandwhat action to take in theevent of an outbreak ofdisease.

5.6.5 A suitable range of muzzles of varyingsizes and a suitable dog catching device,must be kept on site.

Phenolic disinfectants shouldnot be used around dogs anddogs must be kept dry duringcleaning of enclosures.

If there is evidence of externalparasites fleas, ticks, lice etc)the dog must be treated with aproprietary insecticide.

If there is evidence of internalparasites the advice of aveterinary surgeon should besought.

All insecticides, disinfectantsetc must be used strictly inaccordance with themanufacturers instructions,and hazard sheets kept forstaff which explain precautionsto be taken by the user.

The first-aid kit for use on dogsmust be kept well stocked at alltimes. Advice on contentsshould be available from theestablishment's veterinarysurgeon

It is important to considerprocedures to be carried out incase of death or escape. Allstaff should be made fullyaware of these procedures.They will also help to reassureowners that the establishmentacted correctly in that situation.Any dog that has died on thepremises must be referred to a

veterinary surgeon and thelicensing officer of the localauthority must be informed

A veterinary practice should beappointed for theestablishment. The name,address and telephone numbermust be displayed in aprominent position in a publicarea. The 24 hour telephonecontact number of theveterinary surgeon used by theestablishment should bedisplayed in a suitable place,close to the telephone andaccessible to all members ofstaff.

5.7 ISOLATION

5.7.1 Isolation facilities must beprovided.

Notes: Isolation facilities mustbe provided at the rate of atleast I isolation kennel for upto 50 kennels at theestablishment and pro rataabove that. The numbershould be noted on theLicence.

5.7.2 In existing facilities these isolationfacilities must be in compliance with theother boarding requirements but must beseparate and physically isolated from themain kennels. This must be a minimum5m (15ft). (See also temperaturecontrol).

The requirement for 5mdistance between isolationfacilities and main kennels isbased upon consideration ofthe distance that a dog sneezetravels. Intervening buildingsand constructional detail (iewindow and door positions)should be taken into account.Individual circumstances maysignificantly vary the statedfigure.

5.7.3 Adequate facilities to prevent the spreadof infectious disease between theisolation and other kennels must beprovided.

Isolation facilities must beused where the presence ofinfectious disease issuspected. Where stray dogsare accepted by the kennelsthey must be kept in aseparate area away fromboarded dogs. Isolationfacilities must only be used forthis purpose in exceptionalcircumstances ie where strayintake is minimal. Condition

5.5.5 would apply to staffhandling strays.

5.7.4 Hands must be washed after leaving theisolation facilities before visiting the otherkennels.

Protective clothing andequipment, for use only in theisolation facility, must be usedto reduce the spread ofinfection.In new build isolation facilitiesseperated 10 metres from themain units must be provided.

5.8 REGISTER

5.8.1 A register must be kept of all dogsboarded. The information kept mustinclude the following:-

date of arrival

name of dog, any identification systemsuch as microchip number or tattoo

description, breed, age and gender of dog

name, address and telephone number ofowner or keeper

name, address and telephone number ofcontact person whilst boarded

name and address and telephone number ofdog's veterinary surgeon

anticipated and actual date of departure

health, welfare and nutrition requirements

Notes. Computerised, loose-leaf, index card and bookregister systems areacceptable. If a book registeris used, pages must beconsecutively numbered.Records of the ownersagreement to share may bekept on a separate form if acomputerised system is used.

5.8.2 The register must be kept readilyavailable for a minimum of 24 monthsand kept in such a manner as to allow anauthorised officer easy access to suchinformation.

It is strongly urged that theestablishment introduce formalboarding agreements, statingclearly the responsibilities ofboth parties during the durationof the kennelling. TheLicensing Officer of the localauthority will consider thedetails recorded in the registeragainst the actual factsobserved.

5.8.3 Where records are computerised, a backup copy must be kept. The register mustalso be available to key members of staffof the establishment at all times.

Owners should beencouraged to sign anauthorisation for veterinarytreatment.

5.9 IDENTIFICATION OF KENNELS

5.9.1 Each kennel must be clearly marked (egnumbered), and a system in place whichensu res that relevant information aboutthe dog in that kennel is readilyavailable.

Notes: An alternative systemof identification can be usedwith the approval of theLicensing Authority providingthe system in use meets thecriteria for identification andinformation provision for eachdog and is readily accessibleand easy to use.

The system of identification ofunits must be capable ofcontaining relevantinformation such as feedinghabits and frequencies,medicinal treatments etc. Ifidentified on the kennel itmust not obscure the primaryinformation. If additionalinformation is storedelectronically or manuallyaway from the kennel theinformation must be readilyand easily accessible.

5.10 SUPERVISION

5.10.1 A fit and proper person must always bepresent to exercise supervision and dealwith emergencies whenever dogs areboarded at the premises.

Notes: Suitable intervals forvisiting means intervals of notless than four hours, starting at8.00 am, until 6.00 pm. Anevening visit may beappropriate but must bebalanced against the possibilityof disturbing the dogs andcausing noise nuisance.

5.10.2 Dogs must be visited at regular intervalsas necessary for their health, safety andwelfare.

5.11 FIRE PRECAUTIONS

5.11.1 Appropriate steps must be taken for theprotection of the dogs in case of fire orother emergencies.

Notes: It is recommended thatplans and details of theestablishment are logged withthe police and fire authorities.Fire protection advice must besought from the FirePrevention Officer regarding

appropriate fire extinguishersand their correct siting, firedrills, fire escapes etc andimplemented. The generalmaxim of "people first" in theevent of fire is good advice.

5.11.2 A proper emergency evacuation plan andfire warning procedure must be drawn upand posted on the premises. This mustinclude instructions on where dogs are tobe evacuated to in the event of a fire orother emergency.

Where rebuilding or providingnew buildings, the FirePrevention Officer will giveadvice on fireproofingrequirements.

5.11.3 Fire fighting equipment must be providedin accordance with advice given by theFire Prevention Officer.

The advice given by the FirePrevention Officer should be inwriting and particular regardshould be given to the safestorage of inflammablesubstances. Staff should knowhow to use the fireextinguishers. It is alsoadvisable to install smokedetectors.

5.11.4 All electrical installations and appliancesmust be maintained in a safe condition.There must be a residual current circuitbreaker system on each block of kennels.

Dogs should not have directaccess to open flame heatingdevices.

5.11.5 Heating appliances must not be sited in alocation or manner where they maypresent a risk of fire, or risk to dogs.

5.11.6 Precautions must be taken to prevent anyaccumulation which may present a risk offire.

5.11.7 There must be adequate means of raisingan alarm in the event of a fire or otheremergency.

6 DOG SITTING SERVICES

During the course of the review the Working Party became aware of thepractice of "dog sitting" organised on a business footing.

There is at least one national organisation promoting the practice andoffering advice, support and guidance to those wishing to operate such a

service.

The service essentially, and in theory, involves dogs being kept in smallnumbers, often singularly, in the dog sitters home.

Those operating such services are subject to the requirements of theAnimal Boarding Establishments Act 1963. It should be stressedhowever that at present this is a very small part of the boarding marketand the application of some of the conditions contained within thisdocument may be inappropriate to enforce.

The Working Party recommends that local authorities license suchpremises and apply appropriate and relevant conditions to ensure theprevention of spread of disease between animals and to ensure thehealth, safety and welfare of the individual animal being boarded.

Service providers should be advised that planning permission may berequired if it is intended to board more than 6 dogs. They should furtherbe advised that appropriate insurance cover should be obtained toprotect both the operator and the owner of the animal.The Chartered Institute of Environmental Health is considering thisissue further and consulting with the national body and will providefurther, more detailed, advice as appropriate at a later stage.

7 OTHER RELEVANT LEGISLATION

Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974

i) There is a duty on all employers and employees to ensure safetyof themselves, workmates and visitors to the site and contractors.This also extends to the self-employed.

ii) An "accident book" must be provided to record details ofaccidents and "near misses". An annual review will indicate howto keep staff safer by introducing safer practices based onexperience.

iii) Regard should be paid to providing safe systems of work for staff,particularly those involved in dog handling.

iv) An establishment employing more than four people requires awritten safety policy.

v) There is a requirement for a risk assessment to be carried out toidentify hazards in the workplace and assess risks, eg number ofpeople affected etc, in order to assess any health and safety riskin an objective manner as far as possible.

Legislation is evolving all the time and reference should be made toenforcement authorities for up to date advice.

More details will be available from your local authority or fromManagement of Health and Safety at Work -Approved Code of PracticeISBN 0-11-886330-4 available from HSE Books, tel no. 0797 881165(mail order).

Environmental Protection Act 1990

i) Under section 34 operators have a "duty of care" to ensure thatall waste arising from their premises is disposed of without harmto human health or the environment. They may only pass theirwaste to registered carriers or appropriately licensed or authorizeddisposal facilities.

The definition of waste is currently under review. Reference to the localauthority will help clarify the position with regard to waste materialgenerated from boarding establishments.

ii) Part III of this Act deals with nuisance. When setting up aboarding establishment, it is most important to consider thepotential problem of noise or odour nuisance in order to preventpossible legal action which could lead to closure at a later date.

Environmental Health Officers are able to give further advice andguidance on nuisance problems and related statutory provisions.

Noise emission is often not considered by establishment owners.Monitoring a single dog barking at close range may produce a reading inthe region of 95 dB(A). It is important to design and site kennels tominimise any cause of complaint from neighbours. The choice ofappropriate materials, and their correct use in design, in terms ofpreventing noise nuisance is extremely important.

In view of the law allowing noise sensitive premises to be built nearkennels, often after the kennel has been built, consideration shouldalways be given to the need to retain noise within site boundaries asmuch as possible, having regard to local background noise levels.

iii) The use of incinerators to dispose of animal carcasses mayrequire licensing by your local authority who will advise youregarding the requirements of part 1 of the EnvironmentalProtection Act 1990.

If you use an incinerator you are advised to notify the localauthority.

The Environmental Protection Act 1990 places a duty of care onbusinesses to ensure that waste is disposed of by a registered carrier toan appropriately licensed or authorised disposal facility. Those wishingto dispose of waste on their premises or operate an incinerator may needplanning permission, and a waste management licence or authorisationunder the Environmental Protection Act 1990. They should seek advicefrom their Waste Regulation Authority or Environmental HealthDepartment.

Dog faeces and "sharps" such as needles, scalpels etc, constitute"clinical" waste and are likely to be subject to specific disposalconditions.

Electricity at Work Regulations 1989

Apply to every employer or self employed person, and you thereforehave a duty to comply with these Regulations ensuring your electricalfittings and equipment are maintained in a safe condition.

In the event of something going wrong, you will be asked to say why youthought the equipment was safe, which means regular testing of fittingsis advisable.

Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 1988 (COSHH)

i) These are known as the "COSHH" Regulations. They require youto keep chemical substances on your premises in a safe manner,and to review whether you are able to reduce the number ofchemicals used and to see if you are able to use chemicals whichare less hazardous in order to do the same job.

ii) They also deal with zoonoses (diseases transmitted from animalsto people, such as Salmonellosis, Toxocariasis andToxoplasmosis) and you should bring suitable advice on risks andprecautions to the attention of your staff, and ensure that they aresuitably vaccinated.

For further advice contact your medical practitioner and/or the

environmental health department.

Controlled Waste Regulations 1992

The definition of clinical waste in these regulations includes animaltissue, blood or other body fluids, excretions, drugs or otherpharmaceutical products, swabs, dressings or syringes, needles or othersharp instruments which unless rendered safe may prove hazardous toany person coming into contact with it.

The Control of Dogs Order 1992 (51901)

Every dog whilst in a place of public resort must wear a collar with thename and address of the owner inscribed upon it.

"Public Place" means any street, road of other place (whether or notenclosed) to which the public have or are permitted to have accesswhether for payment or otherwise and includes the common parts of abuilding containing two or more separate dwellings.

It should be noted that premises may also be visited from time to timeunder the Animal Protection Acts, Acts which are principally concernedwith animal welfare and the prevention of cruelty.

Dangerous Dogs Act 1991

The Act prohibits persons from having in their possession or custodydogs belonging to types bred for fighting; it imposes restrictions inrespect of such dogs; it enables restrictions to be imposed in relation toother types of dog which present a serious danger to the public; andmakes further provision for ensuring that dogs are kept under propercontrol.

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