4.05 ICF – In-House Pets

Purpose

Individuals may request to have a pet in their home. For this to occur, the individual must demonstrate informed consent regarding appropriate care for the animal requested as well as the ability to provide this care. Due to the shared living environment, all housemates and their guardians must consent to having pets as this may affect their lives through noise, odor, wandering, etc.

Procedure

• The individual must submit a request for the pet of their choice to his/her QIDP.
• The QIDP will hold an addendum meeting for the team to discuss the following: the individuals understanding of the necessary care for the pet, the individuals’ ability to provide care, expenses involved, and any additional concerns.
• If further assessment is required regarding the individuals’ desire or ability to care for a pet, the team may recommend a trial of volunteer services at the Humane Society, animal shelter, pet store, etc.
• Once the individuals’ desire and ability to provide necessary care has been established, the QIDP will interview his/her housemates for their willingness to have a pet in their home. A pet may not enter the home without consent of all housemates and guardians.
• If applicable, nursing will provide information to the team regarding any housemates with allergies pertaining to the animal requested.
• After all the assessments have been completed, the QIDP will review the results with the team.
• The QIDP will draft a formal program training plan (PTP)/goal for the respective individual to care for the pet prior to the arrival in the home.
• The QIDP and the PCP team will monitor the pet’s status within the home on a regular basis as outlined by the individuals’ PCP team.

Last Revised: 4/29/22