P2385 Responsible Use of Animals

Building staff involved in the use of live animals in schools – including acquisition, disposition, care, feeding, housing, and security – will adhere to local and state laws and regulations regarding animals. In addition to instructional activities, this includes class pets, exhibited visiting animals, and assist or therapy animals. Building staff will be responsible for instructing students on safety and hygiene precautions for handling live animals or animal specimens. The building principal is responsible for the implementation of this policy. 

Administrative Implemental Procedures

1. Guidance Documents. 
   1. The Environmental Services office publishes Guidelines for Visiting and Resident Animals. 
   2. The Student Support Services’ Guidance and Counseling office publishes Professional Therapy Dogs Requirements and Procedures.  
   3. Building principals and staff should contact the respective district offices to comment, ask questions, and/or make suggestions about the above guidance documents. 

Board counsel has approved this policy as to legal form and content. 

Administrative Responsibility: Safety and Environmental Services 

Latest Revision Date: April 2021 

New Policy: August 2006 P2385 

Updated administratively for alignment purposes: May 2021

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