Animals in Care Settings Infection Prevention and Control Guidelines

Please Note: This guidance has not been recently reviewed, and local risk assessment should be carried out when considering the risks and benefits of animal therapies. Any derogation from this guidance should be recorded at NHS Board level.

The use of animals in care settings is widely accepted as a useful way to assist those receiving care with communication, relaxation and improvement in overall wellbeing. The guidance set out within this document, provides actions required for any health or social care settings when considering bringing animals into the care setting.

Disclaimer: Documents published before 16 March 2020 were produced by Health Protection Scotland (HPS).