11.10 Pets

Some clients may have pets in their home. Find out prior to going to a client’s home for the first visit if they have pets on the premises. Ask the client how their pet is around strangers. If the client says that the pets are aggressive or do not like strangers, inform your supervisor and seek direction from them. Ask the clients to place their pets in a secured area during a visit. When being introduced to a pet, such as a dog, remain calm. Do not begin petting them before they become acquainted with you. You should allow the pet to become familiar with you. Some pets are more friendly and accepting of strangers.

While walking to and from your car, you should be aware of pets in the neighbourhood. If there is a loose dog, try to stay away from the dog. Do not start panicking or running. This will make it more likely that the animal will run toward you. You should cross the street or return to your car if you are concerned about your safety.

If you are bit by any pet, wash the area with water and soap for several minutes to wash away the saliva and accompanying bacteria. Do not squeeze the site of the bite. This pulls bacteria inside the wound. Inform your supervisor of the incident. Seek medical attention if necessary. Obtain the identifying information about the pet and vaccination records, such as rabies vaccination. If the pet is not up to date with immunizations, you will need to get the rabies vaccination when you seek medical treatment.