Section 20. General provisions

A. Each facility shall be kept in a clean, dry, and sanitary condition and shall provide enclosures that can safely house and allow for adequate separation of animals of different species, sexes, ages, and temperaments. Animals shall be maintained in a manner that protects them against theft, injury, escape, and exposure to harmful substances.

B. Each facility shall ensure that all enclosures provide adequate shelter that is properly ventilated and that can be maintained at a comfortable temperature for the animals confined therein. An enclosure shall not be cleaned when occupied by an animal unless the animal can be further confined in a portion of the enclosure that precludes exposure to any cleaning agent including water and shall be thoroughly dry before the enclosure is returned to use. A disinfectant or germicidal agent shall be used when cleaning an enclosure.

C. Each facility shall reasonably endeavor to ensure that drinking water is available to each animal at all times unless otherwise ordered by a licensed veterinarian. Drinking water receptacles or bowls shall be secured to the enclosure in a fixed position or otherwise be of a design that cannot be tipped over by an animal and shall be maintained in sanitary condition.

D. Each facility shall ensure that animals are adequately and appropriately fed according to their species and age and that feed is stored in a manner that prevents spoilage, infestation, and contamination. All feed delivery utensils and receptacles shall be properly cleaned between uses.

E. Each facility shall ensure that each animal is provided access to a resting platform, bedding, or perch as appropriate to its species, age, and condition. All enclosures shall have solid floors.

Historical Notes

Derived from Volume 32, Issue 24, eff. August 24, 2016.

Statutory Authority

§ 3.2-6501 of the Code of Virginia.