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
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