Dogs and risk assessments | QCS

Hi Sheila,

At the moment we visit a service user that has a puppy, do we need to do a risk assessment for the dog and should the puppy or any dog be locked away when carers are present?

Regards
Karen

Sheila Scott
Answered by Sheila Scott

Dear Karen,

Another really interesting question. I presume that you have written because at least one of the care workers is concerned that there may be a risk.

I think that you should do a risk assessment looking at:

  • Is there a risk to the service user?
  • Is there a risk to the care staff?

If you have identified a risk, e.g. hygiene for the service user or personal safety for the care worker, then it may be appropriate for the puppy to be secured during the visit.

We do need to always remember though that pets are an important contributor to the health and wellbeing of many people living alone.

With best wishes,
Sheila

About Sheila Scott

Sheila Scott OBE from National Care Association (NCA). Care is Sheila’s life; she possesses a strong command of the issues facing the care sector informed by her long career as a nursing professional, the owner and manager of a care business and as a leader in the care sector. 3. Read more

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