Animal Safety

Pets are often present in the home and normally are never a threat. The following guidelines apply for in-home visits.

Why This Matters

Many patients have pets that are considered members of the family and may normally be friendly and well-behaved. However, animals can become protective, territorial, fearful, startled, or aggressive when unfamiliar individuals enter the home. Even small pets can create safety risks for therapists and staff.

Because LifeCare provides services in patients' homes, clinicians should assume that pets may be present at any visit.

Important Note

LifeCare does not routinely ask about pets during referral, intake, or scheduling, and referral sources generally do not provide this information. Staff may encounter pets unexpectedly during a visit and should be prepared to evaluate the situation upon arrival.

Potential Animal-Related Hazards

• Injury Risks

• Dog bites

• Cat bites or scratches

• Jumping animals causing falls

• Animal-related trip hazards

• Injuries while entering or exiting the home

• Infection Risks

Animal bites and scratches can transmit infections requiring medical evaluation.  Examples include:

• Puncture wounds

• Skin infections

• Cellulitis

• Exposure to animal saliva contacting open wounds

Environmental Risks

• Animal waste on floors

• Fleas or ticks

• Unsanitary living conditions

• Excessive pet hair affecting respiratory conditions

• Food or water bowls creating slip hazards

Assessing the Situation Upon Arrival

Before exiting your vehicle, observe:

• Dogs loose in the yard

• Animals visible through windows

• Warning signs such as: "Beware of Dog"

• Electric fence signs

• Animal activity near the entrance

If an animal appears agitated, barks aggressively, charges a fence, or prevents safe access, do not enter the property until the situation is resolved.

Expectations Before Beginning Treatment

If pets are present:

• Politely ask the patient or caregiver to secure the animal.

• Verify the animal is confined before beginning treatment.

• If you are uncomfortable with the animal's behavior, request that it remain secured for the entire visit.

Warning Signs of Aggressive Behavior

Do not assume a pet is safe because the owner says:

• "He doesn't bite."

• "She's friendly."

• "He's never done that before."

Watch for:

• Growling

• Snarling

• Showing teeth

• Raised hackles

• Stiff posture

• Lunging

• Intense staring

• Protective behavior around the patient

These behaviors may signal an increased risk of aggression.

During Treatment

Remain aware of the animal's location throughout the visit.  Avoid:

• Approaching unfamiliar animals

• Feeding animals

• Attempting to restrain animals

• Picking up animals

• Reaching toward an anxious or fearful pet

Staff are not expected to interact with or manage patients' pets.

When to Stop or Delay a Visit

A visit should be delayed, ended, or rescheduled if:

• An aggressive animal cannot be controlled.

• The owner refuses to secure the animal.

• The animal repeatedly interferes with treatment.

• Animal waste creates unsafe conditions.

• Staff believe there is a risk of injury.

If a Bite or Scratch Occurs

• Move to a safe location.

• Wash the area immediately with soap and water.

• Seek medical evaluation as appropriate.

• Notify your supervisor as soon as possible.

• Complete an incident report before the end of the workday.

All animal bites, scratches, or other injuries must be reported, regardless of severity.

Key Takeaway

Never rely solely on a pet owner's assessment of an animal's behavior. If an animal creates a safety concern, request that it be secured, delay the visit if necessary, and notify your supervisor. Staff safety always takes priority over completing a visit.