Accommodation
Dogs and puppies must at all times be kept in
accommodation which is suitable with respect to construction, size
of quarters, numbers of occupants, exercising and whelping
facilities, temperature, lighting, ventilation and cleanliness,
having special regard to the nature of the breeds kept at the
establishment.
Temperature
Heating facilities must be provided as necessary, and used
according to the requirements of the individual dog. It is
recommended that there is some part of the sleeping area where the
dog is able to enjoy a minimum temperature of 10oC (50oF) and a
maximum temperature of 26oC (79oF). The difficulty of maintaining
the ideal temperature is acknowledged, however these are realistic
temperatures and should not be exceeded in normal circumstances.
Puppies under two weeks of age should be kept at a temperature
between 26oC (79oF) to 28oC (82oF). Devices used for heating and
cooling must be safe and free from risk of burning or
electrocution. Open flame appliances must not be used and
manufacturer's instructions should be followed.
Lighting
During daylight hours light must be provided to exercise and
sleeping areas so that all parts are clearly visible. Where
practicable this should be natural light. Adequate supplementary
lighting must be provided throughout the establishment. Lighting
must be of sufficient standard to enable efficient working both
during and after daylight hours. It is recommended that breeding
establishments should have a low-level night light for a 12-hour
period for after daylight hours.
Supervision
The licensee must ensure that a fit and proper person is at all
times in, or within reasonable distance from the premises to
exercise adequate supervision and deal with emergencies.
Dogs must be checked on regularly throughout the day, and must
not be left alone for long periods of the day. It is recommended
that dogs should be checked regularly at least every four hours
between the hours of 8am and 6pm. Checks should be more frequent
when bitches are whelping and puppies are not yet weaned.
In the case of non-domestic breeders, an evening visit may be
appropriate but this must be balanced against the possibility of
disturbing the dogs and thereby causing a nuisance due to excessive
barking.
Advice from a veterinary surgeon must be sought where a dog
shows signs of disease, injury or illness. A competent person must
ensure that this advice is followed.
Fire Precautions
Appropriate steps must be taken for the protection of animals in
case of fire or other emergencies. Adequate fire fighting equipment
must be provided, suitably located and maintained. A means of
escape in case of fire must also be maintained. An emergency
evacuation plan and fire warning procedure must be drawn up and
posted on the premises. This must include instructions as to where
the dogs are to be evacuated to in the event of fire or other
emergency. There must be adequate means of raising an alarm in the
event of fire or other emergency. Persons should not attempt to
fight a fire unless they are confident that they can do so without
injury.
All electrical installations and appliances must be maintained
in a safe condition. There should be a residual current circuit
breaker system on each block of kennels. Heating appliances must
not be sited in a location or manner where they may present a risk
of fire, or risk to dogs. Manufacturer's instructions should be
followed. Open flame appliances in particular must not be used.
In addition, precautions should be taken to prevent any
accumulation of material that may present a risk of fire.
Guidance on fire safety is available from the
Fire Safety Guides website
Waste Disposal
Facilities must be provided for the collection of all used
bedding and other waste materials, which must be disposed of in a
manner approved by the local authority, and in a way not likely to
cause harm or nuisance. Advice must be sought from the Environment
Agency or local authority concerning the removal of waste such as
faeces and soiled material. Those wishing to dispose of waste on
their premises or operate an incinerator must also seek advice from
the local authority and or the Environment Agency.
Drainage
The establishment must be connected to mains drainage or an
approved sewerage disposal system. Foul wastewater must be disposed
of by discharge to the approved drainage system. Advice concerning
wastewater outlets must be sought from the Environment Agency and
or the local authority.
This webpage was updated on
11/18/2008