Section 407.300  Animals

a)         Healthy household pets that present no danger to children are permitted on the premises unless prohibited by local health regulations.

b)         A licensed veterinarian shall certify that dogs and cats have been inoculated against rabies.  This certification shall be obtained when the animal is acquired (if four months of age or older) as required by 8 Ill. Adm. Code 30, Animal Control Act.  Gerbils, hamsters, and guinea pigs which appear healthy may be kept in the day care center if allowed by local health regulations.

c)         All animals shall be physically separated from children both indoors and outdoors except as a portion of a specifically planned program activity under the direct supervision of a staff member.

d)         Immediate treatment shall be obtained for any child who sustains a bite or scratch from an animal, and the child's parent shall be notified.  In addition, the center shall notify the county animal control administrator or designated agent and follow the provisions of the Illinois Animal Control Act [520 ILCS 5].

e)         Animals and/or pets shall be properly housed, fed and maintained in a safe, clean and sanitary condition at all times.

1)         Domestic animals, birds or fowl shall not be permitted at any time in areas where foods are prepared or maintained.

2)         A responsible staff person shall be assigned to the care of any animal or pet on the premises.

3)         The child care center shall be free of stray animals which may cause injury and/or disease to children.

f)         The presence of monkeys, ferrets, turtles, iguanas, psittacine birds (birds of the parrot family) or any wild or dangerous animal is prohibited in the day care center.

(Source:  Added at 22 Ill. Reg. 1728, effective January 1, 1998)