Visiting NCHC with Pets

Visiting with Pets

To provide safe and therapeutic contact with animals and to promote the emotional well-being of the patients, residents, and clients at North Central Health Care, NCHC has an Animal Visitation Policy that applies to all NCHC Facilities, including Mount View Care Center and Pine Crest Nursing home.

What You Need To Know BEFORE Your Visit with a Pet

Vaccinations

Visitors with pets are required to provide proof of vaccinations when visiting with any pet. We require that all animals (dogs and cats) entering the facility must have their Rabies and Distemper vaccination within the last three years. Other animals may be considered upon request and approved by the Infection Preventionist.

Proper Grooming & Hygiene of Pets

The owner is required to mitigate allergic responses to animals by taking the following steps:

  • Owner should bath the animal prior to visitation to minimize shedding of animal dander.
  • Groom animals to remove loose hair before a visit or using a therapy animal cape.

Required Hand Hygiene for Humans

The following hand hygiene is required after any animal contact.

  • Wash hands with soap and water, especially if hands are visibly soiled.
  • Use either, soap and water or alcohol-based hand rubs when hands are not visibly soiled.
  • Minimize contact with animal saliva, dander, urine, and feces.
  • Use routine cleaning protocols for housekeeping surfaces after therapy sessions.

Incidents or Injuries Involving Pets

If an incident of biting or scratching by an animal occurs during an animal-assisted activity of therapy, prompt action is required:

  • Remove the animal permanently from these programs.
  • Report the incident promptly to appropriate authorities (e.g., infection control staff, animal program coordinator, or local animal control).
  • Veterinarian’s name and contact information will be given along with a medical records release will be signed prior to departure of the facility.
  • Promptly clean and treat scratches, bites, or other accidental breaks in the skin.

We love our visitors and our pets. If you have any questions or would like to request a copy of the full policy, please contact NCHC Administration at 715.848.4422. Please request Policy #: 220-1203 Animal Visitation at North Central Health Care.