Companion-Animal Multi-Species Risk Management Tool - Prepared by UniSA Funded by Society for Companion Animal Studies
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Companion-Animal
Multi-Species Risk
Management Tool Prepared by UniSA
Funded by Society for
(CAMSRMT) Companion Animal Studies
Companion-Animal Multi-Species Risk Management Tool (CAMSRMT) Page 2 Acknowledgements Expert Consultants This project was supported by: Society Dr. Chalette Brown BSc DVM MANZCVS (Veterinary Behaviour) – Dogs for Companion Animal Studies, UK. Dr. Kim Kendall BVSc, MACVSc (Cat Medicine) MACVSc (Animal Behaviour) – Cats Dr Tijana Simic BVSc (Hons) – Small Mammals Graphic Design by Beanstalk. Dr Lauren Williams BSc DVM – Birds Cover photos courtesy of (left to right); Dr Stephen Pyecroft BVSc (Hons) PhD MANZCVS (Pathology and Aquatic Animal Health) – Fish Marliese Streefland, Manja Vitolic, Dr Wayne Boardman BVSc Dipl ECZM PhD - Reptiles Waranya Mooldee, Sharon McCutcheon, Mrs Pauline Acott – Consumer consultant (carer) Fernando Maté, Timothy Dykes. Project Team We acknowledge the traditional owners Dr Janette Young PhD – Project Lead University of South Australia and custodians of the lands on which Dr Torben Nielsen PhD – Public Health Veterinarian, University of Adelaide we work and live across Australia. We Ms Deborah Burton BNg PGDip (AgedServsMgt) – Aged Care Consultant pay our respects to elders of the past, Mr Joshua Zoanetti B.Sc (AnimalSc) – Research Assoc present and into the future. Ms Emma Milanese BHlthSc (Hons) – Research Assistant
Companion-Animal Multi-Species Risk Management Tool (CAMSRMT) Page 3
Contents
Introduction 4 CAMSRMT 9
Overarching Considerations 10
Aim of the Tool 5 Dogs 13
Cats 16
Small Mammals 19
Application 7
Birds 22
Fish 24
Resources / Tools 28-29 Reptiles 26
Companion-Animal Multi-Species Risk Management Tool (CAMSRMT) Page 4
Introduction
The Companion-Animal Multi-Species We are indebted to this team of
Risk Management Tool (CAMSRMT) experts and to the Society
was developed in 2021 by an for Companion Animal Studies
Australian team of expert academics, (http://www.scas.org.uk/) who
veterinarians, (human) health and funded the project.
consumer representatives with
funding support from the Society for The core of CAMSRMT are the tables,
Companion Animal Studies (UK). The each are preceded by a best practice
project was undertaken as a Delphi case study showing the tool in use.
study in 2020/21 whereby people with The front section provides guidance
specialist knowledge relevant to our for using the tool and the document is
focus (species expert veterinarians, rounded off with two lists of resource
aged care and consumers of aged links and suggested tools to use
care) were recruited to create, review with CAMSRMT.
and moderate the risk management
framework that is core to this document.
Photo courtesy of Matthias Zomer
Companion-Animal Multi-Species Risk Management Tool (CAMSRMT) Page 5
Aim of the Tool
The intended aim in developing this seeking to reduce the number of pets and animals may encounter in these
resource was to create a framework who become homeless or may even settings, the level and impact of these
that could assist in the process of be euthanised when their human risks, and methods to reduce these
assessing how companion animals guardian and companion is no longer risks to acceptable levels. Very few
across the key species that live in close able to live independently. risks are unmanageable. This noted,
human contact could safely be included proper and caring risk assessment
in communal aged care settings. The aim of the framework is to may at times identify that a pet animal
facilitate and extend the likelihood of will be best served by not joining their
Our intention is to support maximising long term pets continuing to live with guardian. However CAMSRMT offers the
the potential for people entering aged their human guardians/owners even opportunity to carefully explore the
care to keep their pets, enhancing the in high level care communal settings potential for co-residence when desired.
wellbeing of people at an extremely through providing a framework for
stressful life stage in combination with assessing the risks that both humans
Companion-Animal Multi-Species Risk Management Tool (CAMSRMT) Page 6
It is assumed that CAMSRMT
will be used in conjunction with:
Human health histories of both
animal guardians and co-residents
Robust infection control policies and procedures
Animal health care histories and established
care practices
(eg desexing, vaccination, parasite control, registration, micro-chipping
etc appropriate to the species and location)
*See pages 28-29 for a list of useful resources and suggested tools to
support the risk management assessment process.
Photo courtesy of Lucie Hošová
Companion-Animal Multi-Species Risk Management Tool (CAMSRMT) Page 7
Application
CAMSRMT has been developed with The detailed risk management tables
a specific focus on communal aged included in this document move from
care settings, particularly informed by a summative table of overarching
the Australian context. However we risks from humans to animals; animals
believe that most of the risks outlined to animals; all species to humans;
are recognisable internationally in followed by tables on risks specific to
other communal care settings and we the main species/kinds of animals kept
welcome the possibility of the tool as pets - Dogs, Cats, Small mammals,
being adopted or adapted to these. Reptiles, Fish, Birds.
The tool encompasses the following Each risk has been identified against:
risks in communal aged care settings: 1. Likelihood of occurrence
• Risks from humans to animals 2. Potential level of impact
• Risks from animal to animals 3. Moderating or remediating steps
• Risks from animals to humans 4. Consequent likelihoods and levels
Photo courtesy of Isabela Kronemberger
of impact
Companion-Animal Multi-Species Risk Management Tool (CAMSRMT) Page 8 Most Risks Can Be Managed Within Required Hygiene Practices In Aged Care Settings The major documented risks are While this research has a focus on For each risk identified the pre- identified across dogs, cats, birds, companion animals/personal pets of mitigation level of risk (Severity X fish, small mammals, and reptiles. older people residing in their owners likelihood of occurrence) is noted; Additional risks may need to be room, the understandings developed then the mitigation actions, followed considered on the basis of local could also be of use more broadly and by the post mitigation level of scenarios, and both human and could encompass communal pets, assessed risk. It should be noted that animal care regulations. For example visiting and other companion animals most risks can be managed within rabies is not present in Australia – in residential aged care. standard required hygiene practices although this has been included in the in Aged care settings. list for international information; and new diseases (COVID-19 being the obvious) can emerge. No list can be exhaustive.
Companion-Animal Multi-Species Risk Management Tool (CAMSRMT) Page 9 Companion-Animal Multi-Species Risk Management Tool Photos courtesy of (left to right); Marliese Streefland, Manja Vitolic, Waranya Mooldee, Sharon McCutcheon, Fernando Maté, Timothy Dykes.
Companion-Animal Multi-Species Risk Management Tool (CAMSRMT) Page 10
Overarching Considerations
From humans to animals; animals to animals; all species to humans.
There are a range of generic risks
that pertain to the inclusion of pets in
communal residential settings even
when predominately kept in their
owners room. These include risks
from humans to animals and animals
to humans in general, management
of human relations with regard to
animals, potential animal: animal risks
and risks should pets “escape” their
owners room. This first section of the
CAMSRMT seeks to encompass these
more general concerns.
Photo courtesy of Marliese StreeflandOverarching risks from humans to animals; Page 11
animals to animals; all species to humans.
Pre-Mitigation Responsibility Post-Mitigation
& Objective Mitigations, Warnings, Remedies
Risk Risk Level Risk Level Proceed?
People with a history of mistreating Medium Resp: Facility pre assessment. Preadmission assessment of individual. Care Plan identifies concerns Low Yes
an animal Objective: Keep animals safe & actions
Resident scared of animals in Medium Resp: Facility pre assessment. Preadmission assessment of individual. Care Plan identifies concerns Low Yes
general (or particular species) Objective: Keep residents & actions. Pet alert signs for visitors
safe/happy (its their home)
Human allergies to different High Resp: Facility pre assessment Preadmission assessment of individual. Care Plan identifies allergies. Low Yes
species of resident and staff. Objective: Staff pre employment information, rostering processes. Pet alert
keep residents/visitors/staff signs for visitors
safe
Other residents who don't like Medium Resp: Facility pre assessment. Preadmission assessment of individual. Care Plan identifies animals of Low Yes
animals (intolerant animals/don't Objective: Keep residents concern & actions. Pet alert Signs for visitors
like particular species) safe/happy (its their home)
People becoming possessive of Medium Resp: Facility ongoing Ongoing assessments, care planning & reviews. Care Plan identifies Low Yes
animals (causing conflict between assessment. Objective: Keep actions
residents) animals and humans safe
Tripping over pets (falling) Medium Resp: Facility ongoing Location of pets and the appropriateness of when and where they Low Yes
assessment. Objective: Keep can be moved eg on lead, in pet box. Pet care plan and regularly
animals and humans safe review
Animal scratches/bites High Resp: facility staff, owner, Veterinarian preadmission health and behaviour assessment of Medium Yes
veterinarian. Objective: keep the pet, Pet care plan including claw clipping, Trial period to assess
humans safe animal behaviour, Care Protocol for bites & scratches
Disease and infections spread from Low Resp: Facility ongoing Vet and behavioural assessment prior to entering facility. Pet care Low Yes
human to pet assessment. Objective: Keep plan and regularly review. Care Plan & review personal hygiene of the
animals and humans healthy resident. Maintenance of infection control program
Animals spreading human Low Resp: Facility ongoing Vet and behavioural assessment prior to entering facility. Veterinary Low Yes
diseases/infections to other assessment. Objective: Keep re assessment as required. Pet care plan with regular review.
humans animals and humans healthy Maintenance of infection control program
Nutrition (residents feeding pets - Medium Resp: Facility staff/ owner/ Pet care plan identifying suitable areas for pet, eg: Keeping pets out Low Yes
over feeding and/or inappropriate family/ vet. Objective: maintain of dining areas. Routine veterinary health assessment
feeding) pet healthOverarching risks from humans to animals; Page 12
animals to animals; all species to humans. Continued
Pre-Mitigation Responsibility Post-Mitigation
Risk Risk Level
& Objective Mitigations, Warnings, Remedies Risk Level Proceed?
Inadvertent access to resident's Medium Resp: Facility ongoing Facility processes for managing medication. Assessment of Low Yes
medication assessment. Objective: Keep resident's ability to safely manage medications - care plan for
animals safe residents
Noise of animals disturbs other Low Resp: owner/facility. Objective Trial admission period. Keep door closed Low Yes
residents keep other residents happy
Smell of animal disturbs other Low Resp: owner/facility. Objective: Keep door to room closed. Regular cleaning of litter/cage. Low Yes
residents effective odour management Automatic air freshener device
General cleaning up of animal Medium Resp: Facility staff/owner/ Cleaning process and infection control process Low Yes
material eg feathers on floor, cat family. Objective: keep humans
fur, dog hair safe
Animal injury from another resident Medium Resp: owner/Vet/facility. Pre admission behaviour assessment. Pet remains in resident room. Low Yes
animal Objective: Keep pet safe Door kept closed. Pet alert sign on door. Pet leaves room only on
leash at designated times or in pet safe carrier
Animal/bird escape Low Resp: owner/facility. Objective: Pet remains in resident room. Resident able to keep door locked. Pet Low Yes
keep pet safe only leaves on leash or in pet safe carrier. Door kept closed. Pet alert
sign on resident door and all outside doors. All pets micro-chipped or
otherwise wear identificationCompanion-Animal Multi-Species Risk Management Tool (CAMSRMT) Page 13
Dogs
Best practice case study.
12 year old mixed-breed Bob was staff responsibilities including feeding,
admitted with his owner John. Bob monthly worming medicine, weekly
lives in John’s room with a doggie door bedding wash and daily cleaning up of
to a small enclosed outdoor area for toileting area.
toileting. John walks him on his lead
in outside communal areas and Bob Bob stays in his outdoor area when
accompanies John to some group staff provide John with personal care
activities such as Happy Hour. Other or room cleaning, he is bathed monthly
residents look forward to seeing Bob by a visiting dog washing service. A
and his non-attendance is a cause of mobile vet is available if required. Bob
concern regarding his (Bob’s!) health. may only leave John’s room on a lead
and is not permitted in dining or food
As John is frail and his family are preparation areas. A large sign on the
unable to visit regularly, John pays door alerts staff and visitors that Bob
an additional sum to the facility for lives with John and not to leave the
Bob’s care. Bob’s Care Plan identifies door open.
Photo courtesy of pxhere.comSpecies: Dog Page 14
Pre-Mitigation Responsibility Post-Mitigation
& Objective Mitigations, Warnings, Remedies
Risk Risk Level Risk Level Proceed?
Rabies Low Resp: Facility/owner/vet. Pre admission vet health assessment and vaccination history. NOT Low Yes
Objective: keep humans RELEVANT TO AUSTRALIA (CHECK LOCAL SITUATION)
healthy
Bacteremic community-acquired Medium Resp: doctor/veterinarian/staff. Residents at risk identified, treating Dr informed. Pre-admission pet Med-Low Yes
pneumonia due to Pasteurella Objective: keep humans and veterinary health check. Discourage licking of human faces or mouth. (depending
multocida pet healthy Wash hands after interacting with dogs on proximity
to person with
COPD)
Intestinal worms: Trichuris vulpis, Low Resp: resident/family/staff. Pet Care Plan identifies Intermittent wormers for intestinal worms Low Yes
Toxocara canis, Ancylostomidae, Objective: keep humans and (monthly antiparasiticide can be used to cover for mites and worms);
Echinococcus pet healthy discourage licking of faces or mouth, wash hands after interacting
with dogs, pick up faeces daily (wear gloves/use bags). Do not feed
raw meat
Giardia duodenalis Low Resp: resident/family/staff. Only use boiled or mains water, daily cleaning of faeces (use gloves Low Yes
Objective: keep humans and or bags), discourage licking of faces or mouth, wash hands after
pet healthy interacting with dogs
Cryptosporidium Low Resp: resident/family/staff. Only use boiled or town water, pick up faeces daily (wear gloves/ Low Yes
Objective: keep humans and use bags), discourage licking of faces or mouth, wash hands after
pet healthy interacting with dogs
Campylobacter gastroenteritis Low Resp: resident/family/staff. No raw meat, commercial pet food only. Pick up faeces daily (wear Low Yes
Objective: keep humans and gloves/use bags), discourage licking of faces or mouth, wash hands
pet healthy after interacting with dogs
Salmonellosis Low Resp: resident/family/staff. No raw meat, commercial pet food only, pick up faeces daily (wear Low Yes
Objective: keep humans and gloves/use bags), discourage licking of faeces or mouth, wash hands
pet healthy after interacting with dogs
Leptospirosis Low Resp: resident/family/staff. Lepto vaccination if in endemic area. Avoid contact with urine. Clean Low Yes
Objective: keep humans safe urine with gloves. Wash hands after interacting with dogs. Prevent
and pet healthy dogs from drinking from open water bodies or getting in contact with
rodents or feeding on carcasses.. Rodent control in facility
Bordetella bronchiseptica (part of Low Resp: owner/Vet. Objective: Pet Care Plan identifies maintenance of routine pet vaccination Low Yes
Kennel Cough) Keep residents and pet healthy against canine acute tracheobronchitis (kennel cough)
Q- fever (Coxiella burnetti) Low Resp: owner. Objective: De-sexing prior to admission, no raw meat feeding Low Yes
resident and pet health
Ringworm Low Resp: owner. Objective: Minimise dog's soil contact and digging in soil, wash hands after Low Yes
resident and pet health touching dogSpecies: Dog Continued Page 15
Pre-Mitigation Responsibility Post-Mitigation
Risk Risk Level
& Objective Mitigations, Warnings, Remedies Risk Level Proceed?
Harvest Mites Low Resp: owner. Objective: Pet Care Plan identifies monthly antiparasiticide (to include mites) Low Yes
resident and pet health
Sarcoptic mange (S. scabeii) Low Resp: owner. Objective: Pet care plan identifies monthly antiparasiticide (to include mites), Low Yes
resident and pet health avoid interaction with wild foxes or stray dogs
Fall Risk High Resp: facility/owner. Objective: Assess ability of resident to safely manage pet. Identify daily activities Low Unknown
keep humans and pet safe to assess when appropriate for pet to leave resident room. Pet to be
always on harness and lead when moving to other areas in facility.
Staff observation/assistance as appropriate
Jumping up, scratching Medium Resp: owner/Vet/facility. Pet pre-admission behavioural assessment, admission trial period Low Yes
Objective: Keep residents safe
Dog barking Medium Resp: owner/vet. Objective Pre-admission behaviour assessment, trial admission period. Vet/ Low Yes
keep pet healthy behaviour trainer assessment. Environmental/behaviour management,
PLUS medical treatment if necessary depending on diagnosis and
assessment by a behaviour veterinarian
Dog bite High-extreme Resp: owner/facility. Objective: Pre-admission behaviour assessment, trial admission period. Educate Medium Yes
keep humans safe staff and residents on dog body language, positive reinforcement
training, careful and safe handling of dogs, avoiding triggers, provide
dog a safe zone to rest and retreat to (e.g. crate) Dog Bite Care
Protocol
Dog hair everywhere Low Resp: owner, facility. Objective: Care plan identify routine brushing/cleaning of pet. Room cleaning Low Yes
reduce amount of dog hair. schedule
Dog sleeps on owner's bed Low Resp: owner/facility. Objective: Resident decision. Trial admission period. Pet response to staff Low Yes
resident and pet happiness actions. Pet alert sign on door
and safety
Death of animal leading to High Resp: Facility/family. Objective: Documented bereavement support process Medium Yes
psychological distress support grieving process
Dogs have inadequate exercise Medium to Resp: owner. Objective: keep Care Plan identifies exercise requirements in relation to dog's age Low Yes
High pet healthy and health status. Family/volunteer assistance as required
Dogs don’t settle well into facility Medium Resp: owner//vet/facility. Admission trial period. Vet advice on changes in environmental Low Yes
Objective: keep pet healthy management, behaviour modification and medication (if necessary)
Resident(s) become inappropriately Medium Resp: Facility staff. Objective: Ongoing Resident assessment and care planning processes and Low Yes
possessive leading to inappropriate resident psychological health reviews
response to dog(s) and/or other and safety, pet safety
residentsCompanion-Animal Multi-Species Risk Management Tool (CAMSRMT) Page 16 Cats Best practice case study. 15 year old short haired rescue cat Bess Bess poses no threat to humans or any lives with her owner Georgia. Bess’ pre other resident animals at the facility. admission health assessment identified that she has been regularly vaccinated, Georgia’s room has an out of the way wormed and is only fed commercial area under a desk for a cat litter tray, a pre-cooked cat food which the Risk lovely window sill and a cat scratching Framework identifies as reducing any and climbing tree so Bess can observe risk to humans. She is however from up high when not sleeping on FIV positive. At first the manager Georgia’s knee or bed. Photo courtesy of Azat Kılınç is cautious, but she checks the At this time Georgia is able to care Companion-Animal Multi-Species Risk for Bess. Georgia’s family visit daily Management Tool (CAMSRMT) and sees and they assist Georgia by providing Georgia puts Bess in her carry cage to that FIV poses no risk to humans, but all the resources required to care for keep her safe when staff enter to assist can be a risk to other non-vaccinated Bess. They also take Bess to the vet if her with care needs or room cleaning. cats. But because Bess will only live required. Bess’ Care Plan identifies A large sign reminds keeping the door in Georgia’s room, and all cats on site how Georgia cares for her and when closed for Bess’ safety. must be vaccinated it is clear that her worming medication is due.
Species: Cat Page 17
Pre-Mitigation Responsibility Post-Mitigation
& Objective Mitigations, Warnings, Remedies
Risk Risk Level Risk Level Proceed?
Rabies Low Resp: Facility/owner/vet. Pre admission Vet health assessment and vaccination history in at Low Yes
Objective: keep humans risk areas
healthy
Feline Immunodeficiency Virus Medium Resp: owner/vet. Objective: Pre admission Vet health assessment, vaccination records, only a risk Low Yes
(FIV) keep pets healthy to other non vaccinated cats
Feline Infectious Peritonitis Virus Medium Resp: owner/vet. Objective: Pre admission Vet health assessment, vaccination records, only a risk Low Yes
keep pets healthy to other non vaccinated cats
Q- fever Low Resp: owner/vet. Objective: Pre-admission Vet health assessment. De-sexing prior to admission, Low Yes
resident and pet health no raw meat feeding
Toxoplasmosis Low Resp: owner. Objective: keep Pre-admission Vet health assessment. No raw meat, commercial pet Low Yes
humans safe food only. Daily cleaning of litter tray wearing gloves
Giardia Low Resp: owner/vet. Objective: Only use boiled or mains water, daily cleaning of litter tray (use Low Yes
resident and pet health gloves or bags), discourage licking of faces or mouth, wash hands
after interacting with cat
Cryptosporidium Low Resp: owner/vet. Objective: Only use boiled or mains water, daily cleaning of litter tray (use Low Yes
resident and pet health gloves or bags), discourage licking of faces or mouth, wash hands
after interacting with cat
Salmonella Low Resp: owner/vet. Objective: No raw meat, commercial pet food only. Daily cleaning of litter tray, Low Yes
resident and pet health using gloves
Hook worm, Round worm Low Resp: owner/vet. Objective: Care Plan details regular worming treatment Low Yes
resident and pet health
Ringworm Low Resp: owner/vet. Objective: Care Plan identifies regular worming treatment, minimise soil contact Low Yes
resident and pet health
Campylobacter Low Resp: owner/vet. Objective: No raw meat, commercial pet food only. Daily cleaning of litter tray, Low Yes
resident and pet health using gloves
Resident/Staff allergy to cats Medium Resp: owner/vet. Objective: New diet reduces allergen production in cat/s Allergic person to Medium Yes
keep humans healthy avoid cat area, not touch cat, antihistamine use if exposure, regular
vacuuming resident / cat home
Cat Scratch/Bite Medium Resp: facility/owner/ vet. Veterinary pre admission behaviour assessment of the pet, Pet care Medium Yes
Objective: keep humans safe plan including claw clipping, Trial period to assess behaviour, Care
Protocol for bites & scratches. Reduce cat stress provide safe space
when staff cleaning or providing care.Species: Cat Continued Page 18
Pre-Mitigation Responsibility Post-Mitigation
Risk Risk Level
& Objective Mitigations, Warnings, Remedies Risk Level Proceed?
Cats confined to enclosure too Medium Resp: owner/ vet. Objective: Cat has freedom of resident room unless staff providing care. Door to Low Yes
long keep pet healthy remain closed, Alert sign on door
Cats don’t settle well into facility - Medium Resp: owner/facility/vet. Pre admission health assessment. Trial admission period. Take notice Medium Yes
possibly demonstrated by peeing Objective keep pet healthy at first sign - can nearly always be resolved if < 3 weeks since first
or pooing outside the tray and happy incident. May require medication and environmental adjustment
Resident(s) become inappropriately Medium Resp: Facility staff. Objective: Ongoing Resident assessment and care planning processes and Low Yes
possessive of cat(s) leading to resident psychological health reviews
inappropriate response to cats and safety, pet safety
and/or other residents
Cat Hair everywhere Low Resp: owner, facility. Objective: Care plan identify routine brushing/cleaning of pet. Room cleaning Low Yes
reduce amount of cat hair schedule
Cat Litter disposed inappropriately Low Resp: owner/facility. Objective: Provision of clearly identified closed bins for litter disposal. Staff Low Yes
eg down common rubbish chute safe disposal of waste training of bin management
Cat Sleeps on Owner's bed Low Resp: owner/facility. Objective: Resident decision. Trial admission period. Pet response to staff Low Yes
resident and pet safety and actions. Pet alert sign on door
happiness
Cat Yowling in night / other times Medium Resp: owner/vet. Objective: pet Trial admission period. Behaviour can usually be reduced once Low Yes
health and happiness inciting cause discovered
Cat Maintenance - claw clipping Medium Resp: owner/vet. Objective: pet Care plan identifies claw clipping responsibilities and regularity Medium Yes
health and resident safety
Walking Cat on Harness or Trolley Medium Resp: owner/facility. Objective: Pre-admission assessment. Trial admission period. To remain in room Low Yes
tripping up others / Escaping safety of humans and pet unless in harness and at identified acceptable times. Room door to
remain shut. Pet alert sign on door
Fall Risk High Resp: facility. Objective: keep Trial admission period. Monitor cat behaviour especially around Low Yes
humans safe feeding for entwining in legs. Consider flexibility of resident regarding
stepping over cat. Cat to remain in owners room or on leash
Fur-balls (vomiting) / diarrhoea Medium Resp: owner/vet. Objective: Observation by owner/staff. Odour and litter tray management Medium Yes
keep pet healthy
Death of animal leading to High Resp: Facility/family. Objective: Documented bereavement support process Medium Yes
psychological distress support grieving processCompanion-Animal Multi-Species Risk Management Tool (CAMSRMT) Page 19
Small Mammals
eg: Rabbits, Guinea Pigs, Ferrets
Best practice case study.
BB, Bertie Bunny has lived with As BB free ranged in Gwenda’s home,
Gwenda for the past five years, the he was litter trained and used to
latest of three mini lop rabbits that visitors and carers who attended to
have been precious pets for the past provide regular care. In the facility, BB
twenty years. Due to increasing frailty, spent most of his time in Gwenda’s
and the death of her husband and room, sitting on her knee, being
carer, Gwenda agreed to moving brushed and providing a great talking
into an aged care facility providing point for all staff and visitors. BB
BB could come with her. A home that was moved to his hutch when care
supported Gwenda’s desire to have BB or cleaning was being provided and
with her was found and she moved into a notice on Gwenda’s door advised
a single room with an enclosed outside all who entered to ‘look out’ for BB.
balcony that was big enough to hold Between Gwenda’s grandchildren and
BB’s secure hutch and a storage the facilities volunteers, BB’s hutch,
container for his food etc. litter tray and food bowls are kept
clean and his food provided. Having BB
Photo courtesy of Waranya Mooldee
live in with her enriches Gwenda’s life.Species: Small Mammals eg: Rabbit, Guinea Pig, Ferret Page 20
Pre-Mitigation Responsibility Post-Mitigation
& Objective Mitigations, Warnings, Remedies
Risk Risk Level Risk Level Proceed?
Ringworm Medium Resp: owner/vet. Objective Implement good hygiene practices- washing hands before and after Low Yes
keep humans and pet healthy touching animal, using gloves when cleaning pen, cleaning food
and water bowls and other animal husbandry procedures (staff and
resident), wearing a face mask when cleaning pens and disposing of
bedding materials. Don't allow animals to spend time outdoors (e.g.
no pens outdoors)
Campylobacteriosis Medium Resp: owner/vet. Objective Implement good hygiene practices- washing hands before and after Low Yes
(Campylobacter spp.) keep humans and pet healthy touching animal, using gloves when cleaning pen, cleaning food and
water bowls, wearing a face mask when cleaning pens and disposing
of bedding materials good animal husbandry (clean litter trays/food
bowls/pens regularly e.g. once every 5-7 days)
Giardiasis (Giardia spp.) Medium Resp: owner/vet. Objective Boil or use town water. Wash hands before and after touching animal, Medium Yes
keep humans and pet healthy using gloves when cleaning pen, cleaning food and water bowls, wear
a face mask when cleaning pens and disposing of bedding materials
Lymphocytic Choriomeningitis Medium Resp: owner/vet. Objective Wash hands before and after touching animal, using gloves when Low Yes
Virus (LCMV) keep humans and pet healthy cleaning pen, cleaning food and water bowls, wearing a face mask
when cleaning pens and disposing of bedding materials
Sarcoptic Mange (Trixacarus Medium Resp: owner/vet. Objective Practice good hygiene, Care Plan identifies when to apply parasite Low Yes
caviae) keep humans and pet healthy treatment (Revolution) monthly to guinea pigs and rabbits
Salmonellosis (Salmonella spp.) Medium Resp: owner/vet. Objective Wash hands before and after touching animal, using gloves when Low Yes
keep humans and pet healthy cleaning pen, cleaning food and water bowls, wearing a face mask
when cleaning pens and disposing of bedding materials
Animal Bite/scratch Low Resp: owner/facility. Objective: Pre-admission assessment, trial admission period. Advise resident Medium Yes
keep humans safe to use patting box where animal is less likely to be stressed and bite/
scratch (rather than loose on resident's lap), resident to wear long
sleeves and pants when handling animal
Improper care of animal e.g. poor High Resp: owner/Vet/facility. Pre-admission Vet health assessment. Care Plan identifies who is Medium Yes
husbandry- incorrect nutrition, not Objective: Keep pet healthy responsible for what part of the animal's care. If resident is respon-
cleaning enclosure not identifying sible for food and water- staff may still need to check daily that this
animal is sick, neglect has been done. Routine vet check booked once or twice/year
Animal doesn’t settle well into Medium Resp: owner/vet/facility. Trial admission period. Minimise noise in room when the animal is Medium Yes
facility - may exhibit stress signs- Objective: manage pet stress settling in (e.g. take pen outside if staff are vacuuming room). Provide
poor appetite, hiding hides in cages for the animals
Resident(s) injure animal- e.g. Medium Resp: owner/Vet/facility. Pet remains in resident room. Door kept closed. Access by other Medium Yes
drop/rough handling Objective: Keep pet safe residents managed by staffSpecies: Small Mammals eg: Rabbit, Guinea Pig, Ferret Continued Page 21
Pre-Mitigation Responsibility Post-Mitigation
Risk Risk Level
& Objective Mitigations, Warnings, Remedies Risk Level Proceed?
Animal hair Low Resp: owner/facility. Objective: Regular brushing if pet appropriate. Regular cleaning of Medium Yes
manage amount of pet hair room/vacuuming
Resident(s) Trip on animal High Resp: owner/facility. Objective: Identify safe location for enclosure. Alert sign on door Medium Yes
enclosure keep humans safe
Death of animal leading to High Resp: Facility/family. Objective: Documented bereavement support process Medium Yes
psychological distress support grieving process
Resident(s) become inappropriately Low Resp: Facility staff. Objective: Pet remains in owners room. Ongoing Resident assessment and care Low Yes
possessive of animal (s) leading to resident psychological health planning processes and reviews
inappropriate response to pet(s) and safety, pet safety
and/or other residentsCompanion-Animal Multi-Species Risk Management Tool (CAMSRMT) Page 22 Birds Best practice case study. Sweetie Pie the cockatiel has been Roma’s companion and best friend for the past 10 years. Now Roma is unable to care for herself, Sweetie Pie’s whistling and occasional talking keep her company and bring joy to her life in the aged care home. Staff assist by managing his food, water and night-time cage cover. Family members visit weekly and clean his cage, dispose of waste in the designated waste area and provide bird food. Sweetie Pie’s whistling also brings joy to other residents and visitors who spend time with Roma talking to and about her feathered friend. Photo courtesy of Clément Rémond
Species: Birds Page 23
Pre-Mitigation Responsibility Post-Mitigation
& Objective Mitigations, Warnings, Remedies
Risk Risk Level Risk Level Proceed?
Chlamydophila psittaci Medium Owner/Veterinarian Pre admission Vet health assessment, trial period to observe no Low Yes
health deterioration
Salmonella spp Low Owner/Veterinarian Hand hygiene, enclosure hygiene Low Yes
Bird Bite/scratch Medium Resp: facility/owner. Objective: Pre admission Veterinarian health & assessment, positive Low Yes
keep humans safe reinforcement based training. Remain in owners room,
alert sign on door
Bird(s) have inadequate exercise/ Medium Resp: Facility/owner/vet. Pre-admission assessment to ensure housing appropriate, possibility Low Yes
or housing Objective: appropriate of time for free range in owner room
enclosure for bird health
Birds don’t settle well into facility Medium Resp: owner/facility. Objective: Pre-admission assessment. Trial admission period Low Yes
keep pet safe
Death of animal leading to High Resp: Facility/family. Objective: Documented bereavement support process Medium Yes
psychological distress support grieving process
Resident(s) become inappropriately Low Resp: Facility staff. Objective: Bird remains in owners room. Ongoing Resident assessment and care Low Yes
possessive of bird(s) leading to resident psychological health planning processes and reviews
inappropriate response to bird(s) and safety, pet safety
and/or other residentsCompanion-Animal Multi-Species Risk Management Tool (CAMSRMT) Page 24
Fish
Best practice case study.
Sunshine the red, gold and blue
Siamese fighting fish lives with her
owner Jean. Sadly Jean is unable to
communicate, however staff frequently
observe her watching as Sunshine
swims around her tank. Staff feed
Sunshine and a volunteer regularly
cleans and changes the water in her
tank ensuring Sunshine’s wellbeing.
Photo courtesy of Pietro JengSpecies: Fish Page 25
Pre-Mitigation Responsibility Post-Mitigation
& Objective Mitigations, Warnings, Remedies
Risk Risk Level Risk Level Proceed?
Possible zoonotic infections such Low Resp: owner/family. Objective Fish tank to remain in owner's room to reduce inappropriate access Low Yes
as Mycobacteriosis, Aeromonas, keep humans and fish healthy
Vibriosis
Fish disease through poor tank Low Resp: owner/family. Objective Fish Care Plan identifies responsibilities for tank maintenance use Low Yes
maintenance, continuous keep fish healthy professional if owner/family unable to safely maintain tank
introductions
Death of individual fish or whole Medium Resp: owner/family. Objective Fish Care Plan identifies responsibilities for tank maintenance use Medium Yes
tank causing distress to resident keep fish healthy professional if owner/family unable to safely maintain tank.
Documented bereavement support process
Overfeeding of fish causing Medium Resp: owner/family. Objective Fish Care Plan identifies responsibilities for feeding Low Yes
individual or whole tank problems keep fish healthy
Risk of injury due to presence of Medium Resp: Facility/owner. Objective: Pre admission assessment of room to identify safe position for fish Low Yes
glass fish tank keep humans safe tankCompanion-Animal Multi-Species Risk Management Tool (CAMSRMT) Page 26
Reptiles
Best practice case study.
Barry has a lifelong passion for reptiles Herman, and Barry is able to regale
and has an international profile in visitors with his knowledge of tortoises
their care. However with advancing and other reptiles such as the pythons
dementia Barry has had to move into and crocodile that Barry previously
a secure care setting. In consultation lived with. Both examples of pets that
with staff at the facility, Herman the were assessed using CAMSRMT and
Tortoise who has lived with Barry for deemed inappropriate, both because
12 years has also moved in. Herman of human risks (phobias) and animal
lives in the internal garden of the needs for specialist care.
dementia unit in a fenced off area that
Barry has been able to help provide Herman helps with the green
advice on. There are signs around creditability of the facility eating
the garden that introduce people to vegetable scraps and greens.
Photo courtesy of Fernando MatéSpecies: Reptiles Page 27
Pre-Mitigation Responsibility Post-Mitigation
& Objective Mitigations, Warnings, Remedies
Risk Risk Level Risk Level Proceed?
Bacterial infections: Medium Resp: owner/vet/facility. Pre admission Vet health assessment. Hand hygiene after handling Low Yes
Mycobacterium Spp., Objective: keep humans and pet
Campylobacter Spp., pet healthy
Salmonella Spp., Aeromonas,
Escherichia coli, Klebsiella,
Serratia spp, Flavobacterium,
Meningosepticum
Animal Bite/scratch Medium Resp: owner/facility. Objective: Resident assessment for ability to handle. To remain in enclosure Low Yes
keep humans safe when others present in room. Enclosure locked to prevent
unauthorised access
Inappropriate care/housing High Resp: owner/family. Objective: Pet care plan to identify care needs. Professional assessment of Low Yes
keep pet safe housing
Animal doesn’t settle well into Low Resp: owner/vet/facility. Admission trial period. Vet advice on changes in environmental Low Yes
facility Objective: keep pet healthy managementCompanion-Animal Multi-Species Risk Management Tool (CAMSRMT) Page 28
Useful Resources
Murthy, R., Bearman, G., Brown, S., Bryant, K., National Association of State Public SA Department of Health and Ageing
Chinn, R., Hewlett, A., . . . Weber, D. (2015)
Health Veterinarians (2017) (2015) Animal Contact Guidelines
Animals in Healthcare Facilities: Compendium of Measures to Prevent Disease Reducing the risk of illness associated with
Recommendations to Minimize Associated with Animals in Public Settings, animal contact, South Australian Department for
NASPHV Animal Contact Compendium Committee, Health and Ageing (Health Protection Branch and
Potential Risks available online. Communicable Disease Control Branch), Adelaide,
Infection Control & Hospital Epidemiology, 36(5), http://www.nasphv.org/documentsCompendiumAnimals.html South Australia.
495-516. doi:10.1017/ice.2015.15 https://www.sahealth.sa.gov.au/wps/wcm/connect/
https://www.cambridge.org/core/services/aop-cambridge- public+content/sa+health+internet/public+health/
core/content/view/7086725BAB2AAA4C1949DA5B90F06F3B/
NDIS & Feros care (n.d.) Emergency animal+contact+-+reducing+the+risk+of+illness
S0899823X1500015Xa.pdf/div-class-title-animals-in- Pet Plan
healthcare-facilities-recommendations-to-minimize-potential-
Emergency pet plan, developed by NDIS and
risks-div.pdf
Feros care Please note: The links provided on this page were
https://www.feroscare.com.au/ndis/projects/emergency-pet- correct at the time of publication. Please use a
plan search engine if the links stop working.Companion-Animal Multi-Species Risk Management Tool (CAMSRMT) Page 29
Suggested Tools
Suggested Tools • Policy and guidelines for documenting pet
admission decision making process.
• Staff & resident attitudes to pets assessment.
• Infection Control policies and practices
to Support Risk • Pet Suitability Assessment: form completed by specific to pets.
human resident and animal carer (eg Vet) to
Management Process identify if pet is suitable for living in the facility.
• Pet scratch/bite treatment protocol.
• Re-homing of Resident Pet Agreement:
• Veterinary Health Assessment.
identifies persons responsible for the removal
• Pet care plan: identifying vaccination, of the pet in the event of hospitalization or
worming and flea control schedules; ongoing permanent departure of the resident.
medications/treatments and day to day care
• Bereavement support response model for
requirements including waste management
when pets die in care (encompassing owner,
and designated carer.
other residents and staff as needed).
• Pet Accommodation & Care Agreement:
documenting circumstances under which
pet may live in facility; individuals responsible
for daily care of pet; circumstances that may
require a pet to leave.For more information: University of South Australia Dr Janette Young Allied Health & Human Performance Convenor: Pets & People Research (PePR) National Community of Practice +61 8 8302 2616 janette.young@unisa.edu.au
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