Code of Vermont Rules
Agency 20 - DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, FOOD AND MARKETS
Sub-Agency 022 - LIVESTOCK DIVISION
Chapter 001 - ANIMAL WELFARE REGULATIONS
Section 20 022 001 - ANIMAL WELFARE REGULATIONS
Universal Citation: VT Code of Rules 20 022 001
Current through August, 2024
Part 1 DEFINITION OF TERMS
Section 1.1
Definitions
(a) Act - Refers to the
provisions of T20 Chapter 197 "Welfare of Animals and T20 Sections
3681,
3682,
and
3683
as relating to provisions for the inspection of kennel
premises.
(b) Division -
Means the Livestock Division of the Department of
Agriculture.
(c) Division
Representative - Means any inspector or other person employed by the
Division who is responsible for the performance of the functions
involved.
(d) Non-human
Primate - Means any non-human member of the highest order of mammals
including prosimians, monkeys and apes.
(e) Standards - Means the
requirement with respect to the humane handling, care, treatment and
transportation of animals.
(f) Non-conditioned - Means animals
which have been subjected to special care and treatment for
sufficient time to stabilize and, where necessary to improve their
health to make them suitable for sale.
Part 2 REGULATIONS
Section 2.1 Licensing and
Registration
Licensing period shall be from April 1 to March 31 or part thereof. Registration period shall be from January 1 to December 31 or part thereof.
Section
2.2 Record Keeping
In connection with each dog and cat purchased or otherwise acquired, held, transported, or sold, or otherwise disposed of, a license shall keep and maintain the following information in the manner prescribed by the Division:
(1) The name and address of the
person from whom acquired, and the person to whom sold or otherwise
disposed of.
(2) The
dates of acquisition and disposition.
(3) The description and
identification of the animals.
Section 2.3 Compliance with
Standards
Each license shall comply in all respects with the standards set forth for the humane handling, care, treatment and transportation of animals.
Section 2.4 Holding Period
All dogs and cats acquired by a license shall be held by him, under his supervision and control, for a period of five business days after the acquisition of such animal provided, however, that dogs and cats suffering from disease, emaciation or injury may be destroyed by euthanasia prior to the expiration of the five day holding period only if such euthanasia is carried out under the direct supervision of a licensed veterinarian.
Section 2.5 Inspection of Records
Each license upon request shall permit Division representatives to examine records required to be kept by the Act or regulations, and to make copies of such records, and to inspect such property and animals as such representative considers necessary to enforce the provisions of the Act, regulations or standards. The use of a room, or other facilities necessary for the proper examination of such records shall be extended to such authorized representative.
Section
2.6 Inspection for Missing Animals
Each licensee upon request shall permit Division representatives; police or law officers of legally constituted law enforcement agencies with general law enforcement authority, to enter his premises to inspect animals and records for the purpose of seeking animals that are missing.
Part 3 STANDARDS
Subpart A Specifications for
Hanlding, Care, Treatment, and Transportation of Dogs and
Cats
FACILITIES AND OPERATING STANDARDS
Section 3.1 Facilities, General
(a) Structural Strength - Housing
facilities for dogs or cats shall be structurally sound and shall be
maintained in good repair, to protect the animals from injury, to
contain the animals, and to restrict the entrance of other
animals.
(b) Water and
electric power - Reliable and adequate electric power, if required to
comply with other provisions of this subpart, and adequate potable
water shall be available.
(c) Storage - Supplies of food and
bedding shall be stored in facilities which adequately protect such
supplied against infestation or contamination by vermin.
Refrigeration shall be provided for supplies of perishable
food.
(d) Waste disposal
- Provision shall be made for the removal and disposal of animal and
food wastes, bedding, dead animals, and debris. Disposal facilities
shall be so provided and operated as to minimize vermin infestation,
odors, and disease hazards.
(e) Washrooms and sinks -
Facilities, such as washrooms, basins, or sinks, shall be provided to
maintain cleanliness among animal caretakers.
(f) Runways - In facilities where
dogs or cats are held for relatively short periods of time, such as,
but not limited to, boarding kennels and animal shelters, runways
shall be paved to facilitate proper cleaning and disinfection between
occupants. In facilities where paving is not required by this
subparagraph, runways shall be maintained in a sanitary manner at all
times with adequate drainage to prevent standing water.
Section 3.2 Facilities,
Indoor
(a) Heating - Indoor housing
facilities for dogs and cats shall be sufficiently heated when
necessary to protect the dogs or cats from cold, and to provide for
their health and comfort. The ambient temperature shall not be
allowed to fall below 50 [degrees] F. for dogs and cats not
acclimated to lower temperatures.
(b) Ventilation - Indoor housing
facilities for dogs or cats shall be adequately ventilated to provide
for the health and comfort of the animals at all times. Such
facilities shall be provided with fresh air either by means of
windows, doors, vents, or air conditioning and shall be ventilated so
as to minimize drafts, odors, and moisture condensation. Auxiliary
ventilation, such as exhaust fans and vents or air conditioning,
shall be provided when the ambient temperature is 85 [degrees] F. or
higher.
(c) Lighting -
Indoor housing facilities for dogs or cats shall have ample light, by
natural or artificial means, or both, of good quality and well
distributed. Such lighting shall provide uniformly distributed
illumination of sufficient light intensity to permit routine
inspection and cleaning during the entire working period. Primary
enclosures shall be so placed as to protect the dogs or cats from
excessive illumination.
(d) Interior surfaces - The
interior building surfaces of indoor housing facilities shall be
constructed and maintained so that they are substantially impervious
to moisture and may be readily sanitized.
(e) Drainage - A suitable method
shall be provided to rapidly eliminate excess water from indoor
housing facilities. If drains are used, they shall be properly
constructed and kept in good repair to avoid foul odors therefrom. If
closed drainage systems are used, they shall be equipped with traps
and so installed as to prevent any backup of sewage onto the floor of
the room.
Section
3.3 Facilities, Outdoor
(a) Shelter from sunlight - When
sunlight is likely to cause overheating or discomfort, sufficient
shade shall be provided to allow all dogs and cats kept outdoors to
protect themselves from the direct rays of the sun.
(b) Shelter from rain or snow -
Dogs and cats kept outdoors shall be provided with access to shelter
to allow them to remain dry during rain or snow.
(c) Shelter from cold weather -
Shelter shall be provided for all dogs and cats kept outdoors when
the atmospheric temperature falls below 50 [degrees] F. Sufficient
clean bedding material or other means of protection from the weather
elements shall be provided when the ambient temperature falls below
that temperature to which a dog or cat is acclimated.
(d) Drainage - A suitable method
shall be provided to rapidly eliminate excess water.
Section 3.4 Primary
Enclosures
All primary enclosures for dogs and cats shall conform to the following requirements.
(a) General
(1) Requirements for primary
enclosures for dogs and cats.
(i)
Primary enclosures shall be structurally sound and maintained in good
repair to protect the dogs and cats from injury, to contain them, and
to keep predators out.
(ii) Primary enclosures shall be
constructed and maintained so as to enable the dogs and cats to
remain dry and clean.
(iii) Primary enclosures shall be
constructed and maintained so that the dogs or cats contained therein
have convenient access to clean food and water as required in this
subpart.
(iv) The floors
of the primary enclosures shall be constructed so as to protect the
dogs' and cats' feet and legs from injury.
(2) Additional requirements for
primary enclosures housing cats.
(i)
In all enclosures having a solid floor, sufficient clean litter shall
be provided to contain excreta.
(ii) Each primary enclosure shall
be provided with a solid resting surface or surfaces which, in the
aggregate, shall be of adequate size to comfortably hold all
occupants of the primary enclosure at the same time. Such resting
surface or surfaces shall be elevated in primary enclosures housing
two or more cats.
(b) Space Requirements
(1) Dogs and Cats - Primary
enclosures shall be constructed and maintained so as to provide
sufficient space to allow each dog and cat to turn about freely and
to easily stand, sit and lie in a comfortable normal
position.
(2) Dogs
(i) In addition to the provisions
of subparagraph (1) of this paragraph, each dog housed in any primary
enclosure shall be provided a minimum square footage of floor space
equal to the mathematical square of the sum of the length of the dog
in inches, as measured from the tip of its nose to the base of its
tail, plus 6 inches, expressed in square feet. Not more than 12 adult
noncontioned dogs shall be housed in the same primary enclosure.
This requirement may be computed by using the following equation:
(length of dog in inches+6) x (length of dog in inches+6) (Required area in square inches) 144 Required square feet of floor space.
(ii) Dog houses with chains. If dog
houses with chains are used as primary enclosures for dogs kept
outdoors, the chains used shall be so placed or attached that they
cannot become entangled with the chains of other dogs or any other
objects. Such chains shall be of a type commonly used for the size
dog involved and equipped with snap hooks and shall be attached to
the dog by means of a well fitted collar. Such chains shall be at
least four times the length of the dog as measured from the tip of
its nose to the base of its tail and shall allow the dog convenient
access to the dog house.
(3) Cats - In addition to the
provisions of subparagraph (1) of this paragraph, each adult cat
housed in any primary enclosure shall be provided a minimum of 2 1/2
square feet of floor space. Not more than 12 adult nonconditioned
cats shall be housed in the same primary enclosure.
Section 3.5
Feeding
(a) Dogs and cats shall be
fed at least once each day except as otherwise might be required to
provide adequate veterinary care. The food shall be free from
contamination, wholesome, palatable, and of sufficient quantity and
nutritive value to meet the normal daily requirements for the
condition and size of the dog or cat.
(b) Food receptacles shall be
accessible to all dogs or cats and shall be located so as to minimize
contamination by excreta. Feeding pans shall be durable and kept
clean.
Disposable food receptacles may be used but must be discarded after each feeding. Self feeders may be used for the feeding of dry food, and they shall be sanitized regularly to prevent molding, deterioration or caking of feed.
Section 3.6 Watering
If potable water is not accessible to the dogs and cats at all times, potable liquids shall be offered to such animals at least twice daily for periods of not less than one hour, except as might otherwise be required to provide adequate veterinary care. Watering receptacles shall be kept clean.
Section 3.7 Sanitation
(a) Cleaning of primary enclosures
- Excreta shall be removed from primary enclosures as often as
necessary to prevent contamination of the dogs or cats contained
therein and to reduce disease hazards and odors. When a hosing or
flushing method is used for cleaning a primary enclosure, any dog
contained therin shall be removed from such enclosure during the
cleaning process, and adequate measures shall be taken to protect the
animals in other such enclosures from being contaminated with water
and other wastes.
(b)
Sanitization of primary enclosures
(1) Prior to the introduction of
nonconditioned dogs or cats into empty primary enclosure spreviously
occupied, such enclosures shall be sanitized in the manner provided
in subparagraph (3) of this paragraph.
(2) Primary enclosures for dogs or
cats shall be sanitized often enough to prevent an accumulation of
debris or excreta, or a disease hazard: Provided, however, That such
enclosures shall be sanitized at least once every week in the manner
provided in subparagraph (3) of this paragraph.
(3) Cages, rooms, and hard-surfaced
pens or runs shall be sanitized by washing them with hot water (180
[degrees] F.) and soap or detergent as in a mechanical cage washer,
or by washing all soiled surfaces with a detergent solution followed
by a safe and effective disinfectant, or by cleaning all soiled
surfaces with live steam.
(c) Housekeeping - Premises
(building and grounds) shall be kept clean and in good repair in
order to protect the animals from injury and to facilitate the
prescribed husbandry practices set forth in this subpart. Premises
shall remain free of accumulations of trash.
(d) Pest control - An effective
program for the control of insects, ectoparasites, and avian and
mammalian pests shall be established and maintained.
Section 3.8 Employees
A sufficient number of employees shall be utilized to maintain the prescribed level of husbandry practices set forth in this subpart. Such practices shall be under the supervision of an animal caretaker who has a background in animal husbandry or care.
Section 3.9
Classification and Separation
Animals housed in the same primary enclosure shall be maintained in compatible groups, with the following additional restrictions:
(a) Females in
season (estrus) shall not be housed in the same primary enclosure
with males, except for breeding purposes.
(b) Any dog or cat exhibiting a
vicious disposition shall be housed individually in a primary
enclosure.
(c) Puppies or
kittens shall not be housed in the same primary enclosure with adult
dogs or cats other than their dams.
(d) Dogs shall not be housed in the
same primary enlosure with cats, nor shall dogs or cats be housed in
the same primary enclosure with any other species of
animals.
(e) Dogs or cats
under quarantine or treatment for a communicable disease shall be
separated from other dogs or cats and other susceptible species of
animals in such a manner as to minimize dissemination of such
disease.
Section
3.10 Veterinary Care
(a) Each dog and cat shall be
observed daily by the animal caretaker in charge, or by someone under
his direct supervision. Sick or diseased, injured, lame, or blind
dogs shall be provided with veterinary care or humanely disposed
of.
Section
3.11 Vehicles
(a)
Vehicles used in transporting dogs or cats shall be mechanically
sound and equipped to provide fresh air to all animals being
transported without injurious drafts.
(b) The animal cargo space shall be
so constructed and maintained as to prevent the ingress of exhaust
from the vehicle's engine.
(c) The interior of the animal
cargo space shall be kept clean.
Section 3.12 Primary Enclosures
Used to Transport Dogs and Cats
(a)
Primary enclosures, such as compartments or transport cages, cartons
or crates, used to transport dogs or cats, shall be well-constructed
and well-ventilated and designed to protect the health and insure the
safety of the animals. Such enclosures shall be constructed or
positioned in the vehicle in such a manner that
(1) each animal in the vehicle has
access to sufficient air for normal breathing,
(2) the openings of such enclosures
are easily accessible at all times for emergency removal of the
animals and
(3) the
animals are afforded adequate protection from the elements. The
ambient temperature shall not be allowed to exceed 95 [degrees] F. at
any time nor exceed 85 [degrees] F. for a period of more than 4
hours, nor be allowed at any time to fall below 45 [degrees] F.
unless the animals are acclimated to lower temperatures.
(b) Animals transported
in the same primary enclosure shall be of the same species and
maintained in compatible groups. Puppies or kittens shall not be
transported in the same primary enclosures with adult dogs or cats
other than their dams. Any dog or cat exhibiting a vicious
disposition shall be transported individually in a primary enclosure.
Any female dog or cat in season (estrus) shall not be transported in
the same primary enclosure with any male.
(c) Primary enclosures used to
transport dogs or cats shall be large enough to insure that each
animal contained therein has sufficient space to turn about freely,
to stand erect, and to lie in a natural position.
(d) Animals shall not be placed in
primary enclosures over other animals in transit unless each
enclosure is fitted with a floor of a material which prevents animal
excreta from entering lower enclosures.
(e) Primary enclosures used to
transport dogs or cats shall be cleaned and sanitized between
shipments. All litter in the vehicle shall be clean at the beginning
of each trip.
Section
3.13 Food and Water Requirements
(a) If dogs or cats are transported
for a period of more than 12 hours:
(1) The vehicle shall stop at least
once every 12 hours, and remain stopped for a period of at least 1
hour, during which time potable water shall be continuously provided
for the dogs and cats.
(2) Each adult dog and cat shall be
fed at least once in each 24-hour period. Puppies and kittens shall
have food made available to them every 6 hours.
(b) Dogs shall be removed from the
vehicle and given fresh water and an opportunity for exercise if they
have been confined in the vehicle for a period of 24 hours.
Section 3.14 Care in
Transit
It shall be the responsibility of the attendant or driver to inspect the animals frequently to determine whether they need emergency veterinary care and if so, to obtain such care at the earliest opportunity.
Subpart B Specifications for
Handling, Care, Treatment, and Transportation ofGuinea Pigs, Hamsters
and other Rodents.
FACILITIES AND OPERATING STANDARDS
Section 3.25 Facilities, General
(a) Structural strength. Housing
facilities for guinea pigs, hamsters and other rodents shall be
structurally sound and shall be maintained in good repair, to protect
the animals from injury, to contain the animals and to restrict the
entrance of other animals.
(b) Water and electric power.
Reliable and adequate electric power, if required to comply with
other provisions of this subpart, and adequate potable water shall be
available.
(c) Storage.
Supplies of food and bedding shall be stored in facilities which
adequately protect such supplies against spoilage or deterioration
and infestation or contamination by vermin. Food supplies shall be
stored in containers with tightly fitting lids or covers or in the
original containers as received from the commercial sources of
supply. Refrigeration shall be provided for supplies of perishable
food.
(d) Waste disposal.
Provisions shall be made for the removal and disposal of animal and
food wastes, bedding, dead annimals, and debris. Disposal facilities
shall be so provided and operated as to minimize vermin infestation,
odors, and disease hazards.
(e) Washroom and sinks. Facilities,
such as washrooms, basins, or sinks, shall be provided to maintain
cleanliness among animal caretakers.
Section 3.26 Facilities, Indoor
(a) Heating. Indoor housing
facilities for guinea pigs, hamsters, and other rodents shall be
sufficiently heated when necessary to protect the animals from the
cold, and to provide for their health and comfort. The ambient
temperature shall not be allowed to fall below 60 [degrees] F. nor to
exceed 85 [degrees] F.
(b) Ventilation. Indoor housing
facilities for guinea pigs, hamsters and other rodents shall be
adequately ventilated to provide for the health and comfort of the
animals at all times. Such facilities shall be provided with fresh
air either by means of windows, doors, vents, or air conditioning,
and shall be ventilated so as to minimize drafts, odors, and moisture
condensation. The ambient temperature shall not be allowed to rise
above 85 [degrees] F.
(c)
Lighting. Indoor housing facilities for guinea pigs, hamsters, and
other rodents shall have ample light, by natural or artificial means,
or both, of good quality and well distributed. Such lighting shall
provide uniformly distributed illumination of sufficient light
intensity to permit routine inspection and cleaning during the entire
working period. Primary enclosures shall be so placed as to protect
the guinea pigs, hamsters and other rodents from excessive
illumination.
(d)
Interior surfaces. The interior building surfaces of indoor housing
facilities shall be constructed and maintained so that they are
substantially impervious to moisture and may be readily
sanitized.
Section
3.27 Facilities, Outdoor
(a) Hamsters shall not be housed in
outdoor facilities.
(b)
Guinea pigs and other rodents shall not be housed in outdoor
facilities unless such facilities are located in an appropriate
climate and prior approval for such outdoor housing is obtained from
the Commissioner.
Section
3.28 Primary Enclosures
All primary enclosures for guinea pigs, hamsters and other rodents shall conform to the following requirements:
(a) General.
(1) Primary enclosures shall be
structurally sound and maintained in good repair to protect the
guinea pigs, hamsters and other rodents from injury. Such enclosures,
including their racks, shelving and other accessories, shall be
constructed of smooth material substantially impervious to liquids
and moisture.
(2) Primary
enclosures shall be constructed and maintained so that the guinea
pigs, hamsters or other rodents contained therein have convenient
access to clean food and water as required in this subpart.
(3) Primary enclosures having a
solid floor shall be provided with clean bedding material.
(4) Primary enclosures equipped
with mesh or wire floors shall be so constructed as to allow feces to
pass through the spaces of the mesh or wire: Provided, however, That
such floors shall be constructed so as to protect the animals' feet
and legs from injury.
Section 3.29 Feeding
(a) Guinea pigs, hamsters and other
rodents shall be fed each day except as otherwise might be required
to provide adequate veterinary care. The food shall be free from
contamination, wholesome, palatable and of sufficient quantity and
nutritive value to meet the normal daily requirements for the
condition and size of the guinea pig, hamster or other
rodent.
(b) Food
comprising the basic diet shall be at least equivalent in quality and
content to pelleted rations produced commercially and commonly
available from feed suppliers.
(c) The basic diet of guinea pigs,
hamsters, and other rodents may be supplemented with good quality
fruits or vegetables consistent with their individual dietary
requirements.
(d) Food
receptacles, if used, shall be accessible to all guinea pigs,
hamsters or other rodents in a primary enclosure and shall be located
so as to minimize contamination by excreta. All food receptacles
shall be kept clean. If self-feeders are used for the feeding of
pelleted feed, measures must be taken to prevent molding,
deterioration or caking of the feed. Hamsters may be fed pelleted
feed on the floor of a primary enclosure.
(e) Fruit or vegetable food
supplements may be placed upon the bedding within the primary
enclosure: Provided, however, That the uneaten portion of such
supplements and any bedding soiled as a result of such feeding
practices shall be removed from the primary enclosure when such
uneaten supplements accumulate or such bedding becomes soiled to a
degree that might be harmful or uncomfortable to animals
therein.
Section
3.30 Watering
Unless food supplements consumed by guinea pigs, hamsters or other rodents supply them with their normal water requirements, potable water shall be provided daily except as might otherwise be required to provide adequate veterinary care. Open containers used for dispensing water to guinea pigs, hamsters or other rodents shall be so placed in or attached to the primary enclosure as to minimize contamination from excreta. All watering receptacles shall be sanitized when dirty.
Section 3.31 Sanitation
(a) Cleaning and sanitation of
primary enclosures.
(1) Primary
enclosures shall be cleaned and sanitized often enough to prevent an
accumulation of excreta or debris: Provided, however, That such
enclosures shall be sanitized at least one every 2 weeks in the
manner provided in subparagraph (4) of this paragraph.
(2) In the event a primary
enclosure becomes soiled or wet to a degree that might be harmful or
uncomfortable to the animals therein due to leakage of the watering
system, discharges from dead or dying animals, spoiled perishable
foods, or moisture condensation, the guinea pigs, hamsters or other
rodents shall be transferred to clean primary enclosures.
(3) Prior to the introduction of
guinea pigs, hamsters or other rodents into empty enclosures
previously occupied, such enclosures shall be sanitized in the manner
provided in subparagraph (4) of this paragraph.
(b) Space requirements
(1) Guinea pigs, hamsters and other
rodents. Primary enclosures shall be constructed and maintained so as
to provide sufficient space for each animal contained therein to make
normal postural adjustments with adequate freedom of
movement.
(2) Guinea
pigs. In addition to the provisions of subparagraph (1) of this
paragraph, the following space requirements are applicable to primary
enclosures for guinea pigs:
(i) The
interior height of any primary enclosure used to confine guinea pigs
shall be at least 6 1/2 inches.
(ii) Each guinea pig housed in a
primary enclosure shall be provided a minimum amount of foor space in
accordance with following table:
|
Weight or state of maturity |
Minimum space per guinea pig |
|
(square inches) |
|
|
Weaning to 350 grams |
60 |
|
350 grams or more |
90 |
|
Breeders |
180 |
(3) Hamsters. In addition to the
provisions of subparagraph (1) of this paragraph the following space
requirements are applicable to primary enclosures for hamsters:
(i) The interior height of any
primary enclosure used to confine hamsters shall be at least 5 1/2
inches, except that in the case of dwarf hamsters, such interior
height shall be at least 5 inches.
(ii) A nursing female hamster,
together with her litter, shall be housed in a primary enclosure
which contains no other hamsters and which provides at least 121
square inches of floor space: Provided, however, That in the case of
dwarf hamsters such floor space shall be at least 25 square
inches.
(iii) The minimum
amount of floor space per individual hamster and the maximum number
of hamsters allowed in a single primary enclosure, except as provided
for nursing females in subdivision (ii) of this paragraph, shall be
in accordance with the following table:
|
Age |
Minimum space per hamster (square inches) |
Maximum population per enclosure |
|
|
Dwarf |
Other |
||
|
Weaning to 5 weeks |
5.0 |
10.0 |
20 |
|
5 to 10 weeks |
7.5 |
12.5 |
16 |
|
10 weeks or more |
9 |
15.0 |
13 |
(iv) The space requirements for
rats shall be those required for guinea pigs. The space requirement
for mice shall be those for hamsters.
(4) Primary enclosures for guinea
pigs, hamsters, or other rodents shall be sanitized by washing them
with hot water (180 [degrees] F.) and soap or detergent as in a
mechanical cage washer, or by washing all soiled surfaces with a
detergent solution followed by a safe and effective disinfectant, or
by cleaning all soiled surfaces with live steam.
(b) Housekeeping. Premises
(buildings and grounds) shall be kept clean and in good repair in
order to protect the animals from injury and to facilitate the
prescribed husbandry practices set forth in this subpart. Premises
shall remain free of accumulations of trash.
(c) Pest control. An effective
program for the control of insects, ectoparasites, and avian and
mammalian pests shall be established and maintained.
Section
3.32 Employees
A sufficient number of employees shall be utilized to maintain the prescribed level of husbandry practices set forth in this subpart. Such practices shall be under the supervision of an animal caretaker who has a background in animal husbandry or care.
Section
3.33 Classification and Separation
Animals housed in the same primary enclosure shall be maintained in compatible groups, with the following additional restrictions:
(a) Except
when harem breeding is practiced, preweanling guinea pigs shall not
be housed in the same primary enclosure with adults other than their
parents.
(b) Guinea pigs
shall not be housed in the same primary enclosure with hamsters, nor
shall guinea pigs or hamsters be housed in the same primary enclosure
with any other species of animals.
(c) Guinea pigs, hamsters or other
rodents under quarantine or treatment for a communicable disease
shall be separated from other guinea pigs, hamsters or other rodents
and other susceptible species of animals in such a manner as to
minimize dissemination of such disease.
Section 3.34 Veterinary Care
(a) Each guinea pig, hamster and
other rodent shall be observed at least every 48 hours by the animal
caretaker in charge, or by someone under his direct supervision, for
evidence of disease or injury. Sick or diseased, injured, lame, or
blind guinea pigs, hamsters or other rodents shall be provided with
veterinary care or humanely disposed of.
Section 3.35 Vehicles
(a) Vehicles used in transporting
guinea pigs, hamsters or other rodents shall be mechanically sound
and equipped to provide fresh air to all animals being transported
without injurious drafts.
(b) The animal cargo space shall be
so constructed and maintained as to prevent the ingress of exhaust
from the vehicle's engine.
(c) The interior of the animal
cargo space shall be kept clean.
Section 3.36 Primary enclosures
used to transport guinea pigs, hamsters and other rodents
(a) Primary enclosures, such as
cartons, boxes, or transport cages, used to transport guinea pigs,
hamsters or other rodents shall be well-constructed, well-ventilated,
and designed to protect the health and insure the safety of the
animals. Any such primary enclosures which cannot be readily
sanitized shall be constructed of new material and shall be discarded
after one usage. Any such primary enclosures which may be readily
sanitized may be reused but shall be sanitized prior to the
introduction of guinea pigs, hamsters or other rodents for shipment.
All primary enclosures used to transport guinea pigs, hamsters or
other rodents shall be positioned in the vehicle in such a manner
that each animal in the vehicle has access to sufficient air for
normal breathing. The ambient temperature shall not be allowed to
exceed 85 [degrees] F. nor fall below 60 [degrees] F.
(b) Animals transported in the same
primary enclosure shall be of the same species and in compatible
groups.
(c) Primary
enclosures used to transport guinea pigs, hamsters or other rodents
shall be large enough to insure that each animal contained therein
has sufficient space to turn about freely and to make postural
adjustments.
(d) Not more
than 15 guinea pigs shall be transported in the same primary
enclosure. Not more than 25 hamsters shall be transported in the same
primary enclosure.
(e) In
addition to the other provisions of this section, the following
requirements shall also apply to primary enclosures used to transport
guinea pigs, hamsters or other rodents.
(1) Guinea pigs.
(i) The interior height of primary
enclosures used to transport guinea pigs shall be at least 8
inches.
(ii) Each guinea
pig transported in a primary enclosure shall be provided a minimum
amount of floor space in accordance with the following table:
|
Weight (grams) |
Minimum space per guinea pig (square inches) |
|
Up to 350 |
30 |
|
350 to 600 |
45 |
|
Over 600 |
55 |
(2) Hamsters.
(i) The interior height of a
primary enclosure used to transport hamsters shall be at least 6
inches except that in the case of dwarf hamsters such interior height
shall be at least 5 inches.
(ii) Each hamster transported in a
primary enclosure shall be provided a minimum amount of floor space
in accordance with the following table:
|
Age |
Minimum space per hamster (square inches) |
|
|
Dwarf |
Other |
|
|
Weaning to 5 weeks |
5 |
7.0 |
|
5 to 10 weeks |
7.5 |
11.0 |
|
Over 10 weeks |
9 |
15.0 |
Section 3.37 Feed and
Water Requirements
If guinea pigs, hamsters or other rodents are transported for a period of more than 6 hours, the animals shall be fed the quantity and quality of fruits or vegetables sufficient to satisfy their food and water needs during transit.
Section 3.38 Care in Transit
It shall be the responsibility of the attendant or driver to provide or obtain adequate care for the animals in case of an emergency.
Subpart
C Specifications for Handling, Care, Treatment and
Transportation of Rabbits.
FACILITIES AND OPERATING STANDARDS
Section 3.50
Facilities, General
(a) Structural
strength. Housing facilities for rabbits shall be structurally sound
and shall be maintained in good repair, to protect the animals from
injury, to contain the animals, and to restrict the entrance of other
animals.
(b) Water and
electric power. Reliable and adequate electric power, if required to
comply with other provisions of this subpart, and adequate potable
water shall be available.
(c) Storage. Supplies of food and
bedding shall be stored in facilities which adequately protect such
supplies against infestation or contamination by vermin.
Refrigeration shall be provided for supplies of perishable
food.
(d) Waste disposal.
Provision shall be made for the removal and disposal of animal and
food wastes, bedding, dead animals, and debris. Disposal facilities
shall be so provided and operated as to minimize vermin infestation,
odors, and disease hazards.
(e) Washroom and sinks. Facilities,
such as washrooms, basins, or sinks, shall be provided to maintain
cleanliness among animal caretakers.
Section 3.51 Facilities, Indoor
(a) Heating. Indoor housing
facilities for rabbits need not be heated.
(b) Ventilation. Indoor housing
facilities for rabbits shall be adequately ventilated to provide for
the health and comfort of the animals at all times. Such facilities
shall be provided with fresh air either by means of windows, doors,
vents or air conditioning and shall be ventilated so as to minimize
drafts, odors, and moisture condensation. Auxiliary ventilation, such
as exhaust fans and vents or air conditioning, shall be provided when
the ambient temperature is 85 [degrees] F. or higher.
(c) Lighting. Indoor housing
facilities for rabbits shall have ample light, by natural or
artificial means, or both, of good quality and well distributed. Such
lighting shall provide uniformly distributed illumination of
sufficient light intensity to permit routine inspection and cleaning
during the entire working period. Primary enclosures shall be so
placed as to protect the rabbits from excessive
illumination.
(d)
Interior surfaces. The interior building surfaces of indoor housing
facilities shall be constructed and maintained so that they are
substantially impervious to moisture and may be readily
sanitized.
Section
3.52 Facilities, Outdoor
(a) Shelter from sunlight. When
sunlight is likely to cause overheating or discomfort, sufficient
shade shall be provided to allow all rabbits kept outdoors to protect
themselves from the direct rays of the sun. When the atmospheric
temperature exceeds 90 [degrees] F. artificial cooling shall be
provided by a sprinkler system or other means.
(b) Shelter from rain or snow.
Rabbits kept outdoors shall be provided with access to shelter to
allow them to remain dry during rain or snow.
(c) Shelter from cold weather.
Shelter shall be provided for all rabbits kept outdoors when the
atmospheric temperature falls below 40 [degrees] F.
(d) Protection from predators.
Outdoor housing facilitites for rabbits shall be fenced or otherwise
enclosed to minimize the entrance of predators.
(e) Drainage. A suitable method
shall be provided to rapidly eliminate excess water.
Section 3.53 Primary
Enclosures
All primary enclosures for rabbits shall conform to the following requirements:
(a) General.
(1) Primary enclosures shall be
structurally sound and maintained in good repair to protect the
rabbits from injury, to contain them, and to keep predators
out.
(2) Primary
enclosures shall be constructed and maintained so as to enable the
rabbits to remain dry and clean.
(3) Primary enclosures shall be
constructed and maintained so that the rabbits contained therein have
convenient access to clean food and water as required in this
subpart.
(4) The floors
of the primary enclosures shall be constructed so as to protect the
rabbits' feet and legs from injury. Litter shall be provided in all
primary enclosures having solid floors.
(5) A suitable nest box containing
clean nesting material shall be provided in each primary enclosure
housing a female with a litter less than one month of age.
(b) Space requirements.
Primary enclosures shall be constructed and maintained so as to
provide sufficient space for the animal to make normal postural
adjustments with adequate freedom of movement. Each rabbit housed in
a primary enclosure shall be provided a minimum amount of floor
space, exclusive of the space taken up by food and water receptacles,
in accordance with the following table:
|
Category |
Individual weights (pounds) |
Minimum space per rabbit (square inches) |
|
Groups |
3 through 5 |
144 |
|
6 through 8 |
288 |
|
|
9 or more |
432 |
|
|
Individual Adults |
3 through 5 |
180 |
|
6 through 8 |
360 |
|
|
9 through 11 |
540 |
|
|
12 or more |
720 |
|
|
Nursing females |
3 through 5 |
576 |
|
6 through 8 |
720 |
|
|
9 through 11 |
864 |
|
|
12 or more |
1080 |
Section 3.54 Feeding
(a) Rabbits shall be fed at least
once each day except as otherwise might be required to provide
adequate veterinary care. The food shall be free from contamination,
wholesome, palatable and of sufficient quantity and nutritive value
to meet the normal daily requirements for the condition and size of
the rabbit.
(b) Food
receptacles shall be accessible to all rabbits in a primary enclosure
and shall be located so as to minimize contamination by excreta. All
food receptacles shall be kept clean. If self-feeders are used for
the feeding of dry feed, measures must be taken to prevent molding,
deterioration or caking of the feed.
Section 3.55 Watering
Sufficient potable water shall be provided daily except as might otherwise be required to provide adequate veterinary care. All watering receptacles shall be sanitized when dirty.
Section 3.56
Sanitization
(a) Cleaning of primary
enclosures.
(1) Primary enclosures
shall be kept reasonably free of excreta, hair, cobwebs and other
debris by periodic cleaning. Measures shall be taken to prevent the
wetting of rabbits in such enclosures if a washing process is
used.
(2) In primary
enclosures equipped with solid floors, soiled litter shall be removed
and replaced with clean litter at least once each week.
(3) If primary enclosures are
equipped with wire or mesh floors, the trough or pans under such
enclosures shall be cleaned at least once each week. If worm bins are
used under such enclosures they shall be maintained in a sanitary
condition.
(b)
Sanitization of primary enclosures.
(1) Primary enclosures for rabbits
shall be sanitized at least once every 30 days in the manner provided
in subparagraph (3) of this paragraph.
(2) Prior to the introduction of
rabbits into empty primary enclosures previously occupied, such
enclosures shall be sanitized in the manner provided in subparagraph
(3) of this paragraph.
(3) Primary enclosures for rabbits
shall be sanitized by washing them with hot water (180 [degrees] F.)
and soap or detergent as in a mechanical cage washer, or by washing
all soiled surfaces with a detergent solution followed by a safe and
effective disinfectant, or by cleaning all soiled surfaces with live
steam or flame.
(c) Housekeeping. Premises
(buildings and grounds) shall be kept clean and in good repair in
order to protect the animals from injury and to facilitate the
prescribed husbandry practices set forth in this subpart. Premises
shall remain free of accumulations of trash.
(d) Pest control. An effective
program for the control of insects, ectoparasites, and avian and
mammalian pests shall be established and maintained.
Section 3.57 Employees
A sufficient number of employees shall be utilized to maintain the prescribed level of husbandry practices set forth in this subpart. Such practices shall be under the supervision of an animal caretaker who has a background in animal husbandry or care.
Section
3.58 Classification and Separation
Animals housed in the same primary enclosure shall be maintained in compatible groups with the following additional restrictions:
(a) Rabbits
shall not be housed in the same primary enclosure with any other
species of animals unless required for scientific reasons.
(b) Rabbits under quarantine or
treatment for a communicable disease shall be separated from other
rabbits and other susceptible species of animals in such a manner as
to minimize dissemination of such disease.
Section 3.59 Veterinary Care
Each rabbit shall be observed at least every 48 hours by the animal caretaker in charge, or by someone working under his direct supervision, for evidence of disease or injury. Sick or diseased, injured, lame or blind rabbits shall be provided with veterinary care or humanely disposed of.
Section 3.60 Vehicles
(a) Vehicles used in transporting
rabbits shall be mechanically sound and equipped to provide fresh air
to all animals being transported without injurious drafts.
(b) The animal cargo space shall be
so constructed and maintained as to prevent the ingress of exhaust
from the vehicle's engine.
(c) The interior of the animal
cargo space shall be kept clean.
Section 3.61 Primary Enclosures
Used to Transport Rabbits
(a)
Primary enclosures, such as compartments or transport cages, cartons,
or crates, used to transport rabbits, shall be well-constructed,
well-ventilated and designed to protect the health and insure the
safety of the animals. Such enclosures shall be constructed or
positioned in the vehicle in such a manner that
(1) each animal in the vehicle has
access to sufficient air for normal breathing,
(2) the openings of such enclosures
are easily accessible at all times for emergency removal of the
animals, and
(3) the
animals are afforded adequate protection from the elements. The
ambient temperature shall not be allowed to exceed 85 [degrees] F.
nor fall below that temperature to which the animals are
acclimated.
(b) Rabbits transported in the same
primary enclosure shall be in compatible groups and shall not be
transported in the same primary enclosures with other species of
animals.
(c) Primary
enclosures used to transport rabbits shall be large enough to insure
that each rabbit contained therein has sufficient space to turn about
freely, and to make normal postural adjustments. Not more than 15
rabbits shall be transported in the same primary enclosure.
(d) Rabbits shall not be placed in
primary enclosures over other animals in transit unless each
enclosure is fitted with a floor of a material which prevents animal
excreta from entering lower enclosures.
(e) Primary enclosures used to
transport rabbits shall be cleaned and sanitized between shipments.
All litter in the vehicle shall be clean at the beginning of each
trip.
Section
3.62 Food and Water Requirements
If rabbits are transported for a period of more than 6 hours, they shall be provided with food and water. This requirement may be met by providing feedstuff and water, or the quantity and quality of vegetables, sufficient to satisfy their food and water needs during transit.
Section
3.63 Care in Transit
It shall be the responsibility of the attendant or driver to provide or obtain adequate care for the animals in case of an emergency.
Subpart
D Specifications for the Humane Handling, Care,
Treatment, and Transportation of Nonhuman Primates; Footnote
5.
FACILITIES AND OPERATING STANDARDS
Section 3.75 Facilities, General
(a) Structural Strength - The
housing facilities for nonhuman primates shall be structurally sound
and shall be maintained in good repair, to protect the animals from
injury, to contain the animals, and to restrict the entrance of other
animals.
(b) Water and
Electric Power - Reliable and adequate electric power, if required to
comply with other provisions of this subpart, and adequate potable
water shall be available.
(c) Storage - Supplies of food and
bedding shall be stored in facilities which adequately protect such
supplies against infestation or contamination by vermin.
Refrigeration shall be provided for supplies of perishable
food.
(d) Waste Disposal
- Provision shall be made for the removal and disposal of animal and
food wastes, bedding, dead animals, and debris. Disposal facilities
shall be so provided and operated as to minimize vermin infestation,
odors, and disease hazards.
(e) Washrooms and Sinks -
Facilities, such as washrooms, basins, or sinks, shall be provided to
maintain cleanliness among animal caretakers.
Section 3.76 Facilities, Indoor
(a) Hearing - Indoor housing
facilities for nonhuman primates shall be sufficiently heated when
necessary to protect the animals from the cold, and to provide for
their health and comfort. The ambient temperature shall not be
allowed to fall below 50 [degrees] F.
(b) Ventilation - Indoor housing
facilities for nonhuman primates shall be adequately ventilated to
provide for the health and comfort of the animals at all times. Such
facilities shall be provided with fresh air either by means of
windows, doors, vents, or air conditioning and shall be ventilated so
as to minimize drafts, odors, and moisture condensation. Auxiliary
ventilation, such as exhaust fans and vents or air conditioning,
shall be provided when the ambient temperature is 85 [degrees] F. or
higher.
(c) Lighting -
Indoor housing facilities for nonhuman primates shall have ample
light, by natural or artificial means, or both, of good quality and
well distributed. Such lighting shall provide uniformly distributed
illumination of sufficient light intensity to permit routine
inspection and cleaning during the entire working period. Primary
enclosures shall be so placed as to protect the nonhuman primates
from excessive illumination.
(d) Interior Surfaces - The
interior building surfaces of indoor housing facilities shall be
constructed and maintained so that they are substantially impervious
to moisture and may be readily sanitized.
(e) Drainage - A suitable method
shall be provided to rapidly eliminate excess water from indoor
housing facilities. If drains are used, they shall be properly
constructed and kept in good repair to avoid foul odors therefrom. If
closed drainage systems are used, they shall be equipped with traps
and so installed as to prevent any backup of sewage onto the floor of
the room.
Section
3.77 Facilities, Outdoor
(a) Shelter From Sunlight - When
sunlight is likely to cause overheating or discomfort, sufficient
shade shall be provided to allow all nonhuman primates kept outdoors
to protect themselves from the direct rays of the sun.
(b) Shelter From Rain or Snow -
Nonhuman primates kept outdoors shall be provided with access to
shelter to allow them to remain dry during rain or snow.
(c) Shelter From Cold Weather -
Shelter shall be provided for all nonhuman primates kept outdoors to
afford comfort and protection to such animals appropriate for the
local climatic conditions and nonhuman primate species
concerned.
(d) Drainage -
A suitable method shall be provided to rapidly eliminate excess
water.
Section
3.78 Primary Enclosures
All primary enclosures for nonhuman primates shall conform to the following requirements:
(a) General
(1) Primary enclosures shall be
structurally sound and maintained in good repair to protect the
nonhuman primates from injury, to contain them, and to keep predators
out.
(2) Primary
enclosures shall be constructed and maintained so as to enable the
nonhuman primates to remain dry and clean.
(3) Primary enclosures shall be
constructed and maintained so that the nonhuman primates contained
therein have convenient access to clean food and water as required in
this subpart.
(4) The
floors of the primary enclosures shall be constructed so as to
protect the nonhuman primates from injury.
(b) Space Requirements
(1) Primary enclosures shall be
constructed and maintained so as to provide sufficient space to allow
each nonhuman primate to make normal postural adjustments with
adequate freedom of movement.
(2) Each nonhuman primate housed in
a primary enclosure shall be provided with a minimum floor space
equal to an area of at least three times the area occupied by such
primate when standing on four feet.
Section 3.79 Feeding
(a) Nonhuman primates shall be fed
at least once each day except as otherwise might be required to
provide adequate veterinary care. The food shall be free from
contamination, wholesome, palatable, and of sufficient quantity and
nutritive value to meet the normal daily requirements for the
condition and size of the nonhuman primate.
(b) Food, and food receptacles if
used, shall be accessible to all nonhuman primates and shall be
placed so as to minimize contamination by excreta. Food receptacles
shall be kept clean. If self-feeders are used, measures shall be
taken to prevent molding, deterioration or caking of food.
Section 3.80 Watering
If potable water is not accessible to the nonhuman primates at all times, such water shall be offered to them at least twice daily except as might otherwise be required to provide adequate veterinary care. All watering receptacles shall be kept clean.
Section 3.81
Sanitization
(a) Cleaning of Primary
Enclosures - Excreta shall be removed from primary enclosures as
often as necessary to prevent contamination of the nonhuman primates
contained therein and to reduce disease hazards and odors. When
hosing or flushing methods are used for this purpose, measures shall
be taken to prevent animals confined in such enclosures from being
wetted involuntarily.
(b)
Sanitization of Enclosures
(1) Prior
to the introduction of nonhuman primates into primary enclosures
previously occupied by other nonhuman primates, such enclosures shall
be sanitized in the manner provided in subparagraph (3) of this
paragraph.
(2) Primary
enclosures for nonhuman primates shall be sanitized often enough to
prevent primates an accumulation of debris or excreta, or a disease
hazard: PROVIDED, HOWEVER, That such enclosures shall be sanitized at
least once every 2 weeks in the manner provided in subparagraph (3)
of this paragraph.
(3)
Cages, rooms and hard surfaced pens or runs shall be sanitized often
enough by washing them with hot water (180 [degrees] F.) and soap or
detergent, as in a mechanical cage washer, or by washing all soiled
surfaces with a detergent solution followed by a safe and effective
disinfectant, or by cleaning all soiled surfaces with live steam.
Runs, if provided, shall be paved.
(c) Housekeeping - Premises
(buildings and grounds) shall be kept clean and in good repair in
order to protect the animals from injury and to facilitate the
prescribed husbandry practices set forth in this subpart. Premises
shall remain free of accumulations of trash.
(d) Pest Control - An effective
program for the control of insects, ectoparasites, and avian and
mammalian pests shall be established and maintained.
Section 3.82 Employees
A sufficient number of employees shall be utilized to maintain the prescribed level of husbandry practices set forth in this subpart. Such practices shall be under the supervision of an animal caretaker who has a background in animal husbandry or care.
Section
3.83 Classification and Separation
Nonhuman primates housed in the same primary enclosure shall be maintained in compatible groups and shall not be housed in the same primary enclosure with animal species other than nonhuman primates.
Section
3.84 Veterinary Care
Each nonhuman primate shall be observed daily by the animal caretaker in charge or by someone working under his direct supervision. Sick or diseased, injured, lame, or blind nonhuman primates shall be provided with veterinary care or humanely disposed of.
Section 3.85
Vehicles
(a) Vehicles used in
transporting nonhuman primates shall be mechanically sound and
equipped to provide fresh air to all animals being transported,
without injurious drafts.
(b) The animal cargo space shall be
so constructed and maintained as to prevent the ingress of exhaust
from the vehicle's engine.
(c) The interior of the animal
cargo space shall be kept clean.
Section 3.86 Primary Enclosures
Used to Transport Nonhuman Primates
(a) Primary enclosures such as
compartments, transport cages or crates, used to transport nonhuman
primates shall be well-constructed, well-ventilated, and designed to
protect the health and insure the safety of the animals. Such
enclosures shall be constructed or positioned in the vehicle in such
a manner that
(1) each animal in
the vehicle has access to sufficient air for normal
breathing,
(2) the
openings of such enclosures are easily accessible at all times for
emergency removal of the animal and
(3) the animals are afforded
adequate protection from the elements. The temperature within such
enclosures shall not be allowed to exceed the atmospheric
temperature. Moreover the ambient temperature shall not be allowed to
exceed 85 [degrees] F. for more than 4 hours continuously nor allowed
to fall below 45 [degrees] F.
(b) Nonhuman primates transported
in the same primary enclosure shall be in compatible groups and shall
not be transported in the same primary enclosures with other species
of animals.
(c) Primary
enclosures used to transport nonhuman primates shall be large enough
to insure that each nonhuman primate contained therein has sufficient
space to turn about freely and to make normal postural adjustments.
Not more than 10 nonhuman primates shall be transported in the same
primary enclosures.
(d)
Nonhuman primates shall not be placed in primary enclosures over
other animals in transit unless each enclosure is fitted with a floor
of a material which prevents animal excreta from entering lower
enclosures.
(e) Primary
enclosures used to transport nonhuman primates shall be cleaned and
sanitized between shipments. All litter in the vehicle shall be clean
at the beginning of each trip.
Section 3.88 Care in Transit
It shall be the responsibility of the attendant or driver to provide or obtain adequate care for the animals in case of an emergency.
Footnote 5. Nonhuman primates include a great diversity of forms, ranging from the marmoset weighing only a few ounces, to the adult gorilla weighing hundreds of pounds. They come from Asia, Africa, and Central and South America, and they live in different habitats. Their nutritional and activity requirements differ as do their social and environmental requirements. As a result, the conditions appropriate for one species do not necessarily apply to another; therefore, discretion must be used in interpreting these standards.
Statutory Authority: 20 V.S.A. Chapter 197 and §§ 3681-3683
Disclaimer: These regulations may not be the most recent version. Vermont may have more current or accurate information. We make no warranties or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness, or adequacy of the information contained on this site or the information linked to on the state site. Please check official sources.
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