Code of Federal Regulations
Title 9. Animals and Animal Products
Chapter I. Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service,
Department of Agriculture
Subchapter A. Animal Welfare
Part 3. Standards
Specifications for the Humane Handling, Care, Treatment, and
Transportation of Dogs and Cats
Facilities and Operating Standards
§ 3.1 Housing facilities, general.
(a) Structure; construction. Housing
facilities for dogs and cats must be designed and constructed so that they are
structurally sound. They must be kept in good repair, and they must protect the
animals from injury, contain the animals securely, and restrict other animals
from entering.
(b) Condition and
site. Housing facilities and areas used for storing animal food or bedding must
be free of any accumulation of trash, waste material, junk, weeds, and other
discarded materials. Animal areas inside of housing facilities must be kept
neat and free of clutter, including equipment, furniture, and stored material,
but may contain materials actually used and necessary for cleaning the area,
and fixtures or equipment necessary for proper husbandry practices and research
needs. Housing facilities other than those maintained by research facilities
and Federal research facilities must be physically separated from any other
business. If a housing facility is located on the same premises as another
business, it must be physically separated from the other business so that
animals the size of dogs, skunks, and raccoons are prevented from entering
it.
(c) Surfaces-
(1) General requirements. The surfaces of
housing facilities--including houses, dens, and other furniture-type fixtures
and objects within the facility--must be constructed in a manner and made of
materials that allow them to be readily cleaned and sanitized, or removed or
replaced when worn or soiled. Interior surfaces and any surfaces that come in
contact with dogs or cats must:
(i) Be free of
excessive rust that prevents the required cleaning and sanitization, or that
affects the structural strength of the surface; and
(ii) Be free of jagged edges or sharp points
that might injure the animals.
(2) Maintenance and replacement of surfaces.
All surfaces must be maintained on a regular basis. Surfaces of housing
facilities--including houses, dens, and other furniture-type fixtures and
objects within the facility--that cannot be readily cleaned and sanitized, must
be replaced when worn or soiled.
(3) Cleaning. Hard surfaces with which the
dogs or cats come in contact must be spot-cleaned daily and sanitized in
accordance with § 3.11(b) of this subpart to
prevent accumulation of excreta and reduce disease hazards. Floors made of
dirt, absorbent bedding, sand, gravel, grass, or other similar material must be
raked or spot-cleaned with sufficient frequency to ensure all animals the
freedom to avoid contact with excreta. Contaminated material must be replaced
whenever this raking and spot-cleaning is not sufficient to prevent or
eliminate odors, insects, pests, or vermin infestation. All other surfaces of
housing facilities must be cleaned and sanitized when necessary to satisfy
generally accepted husbandry standards and practices. Sanitization may be done
using any of the methods provided in § 3.11(b)(3)
for primary enclosures.
(d) Water and electric power. The housing
facility must have reliable electric power adequate for heating, cooling,
ventilation, and lighting, and for carrying out other husbandry requirements in
accordance with the regulations in this subpart. The housing facility must
provide adequate running potable water for the dogs' and cats' drinking needs,
for cleaning, and for carrying out other husbandry requirements.
(e) Storage. Supplies of food and bedding
must be stored in a manner that protects the supplies from spoilage,
contamination, and vermin infestation. The supplies must be stored off the
floor and away from the walls, to allow cleaning underneath and around the
supplies. Foods requiring refrigeration must be stored accordingly, and all
food must be stored in a manner that prevents contamination and deterioration
of its nutritive value. All open supplies of food and bedding must be kept in
leakproof containers with tightly fitting lids to prevent contamination and
spoilage. Only food and bedding that is currently being used may be kept in the
animal areas. Substances that are toxic to the dogs or cats but are required
for normal husbandry practices must not be stored in food storage and
preparation areas, but may be stored in cabinets in the animal areas.
(f) Drainage and waste disposal. Housing
facility operators must provide for regular and frequent collection, removal,
and disposal of animal and food wastes, bedding, debris, garbage, water, other
fluids and wastes, and dead animals, in a manner that minimizes contamination
and disease risks. Housing facilities must be equipped with disposal facilities
and drainage systems that are constructed and operated so that animal waste and
water are rapidly eliminated and animals stay dry. Disposal and drainage
systems must minimize vermin and pest infestation, insects, odors, and disease
hazards. All drains must be properly constructed, installed, and maintained. If
closed drainage systems are used, they must be equipped with traps and prevent
the backflow of gases and the backup of sewage onto the floor. If the facility
uses sump or settlement ponds, or other similar systems for drainage and animal
waste disposal, the system must be located far enough away from the animal area
of the housing facility to prevent odors, diseases, pests, and vermin
infestation. Standing puddles of water in animal enclosures must be drained or
mopped up so that the animals stay dry. Trash containers in housing facilities
and in food storage and food preparation areas must be leakproof and must have
tightly fitted lids on them at all times. Dead animals, animal parts, and
animal waste must not be kept in food storage or food preparation areas, food
freezers, food refrigerators, or animal areas.
(g) Washrooms and sinks. Washing facilities
such as washrooms, basins, sinks, or showers must be provided for animal
caretakers and must be readily accessible.
§ 3.2 Indoor housing
facilities.
(a)
Heating, cooling, and temperature. Indoor housing facilities for dogs and cats
must be sufficiently heated and cooled when necessary to protect the dogs and
cats from temperature or humidity extremes and to provide for their health and
well-being. When dogs or cats are present, the ambient temperature in the
facility must not fall below 50 °F (10 °C) for dogs and cats not
acclimated to lower temperatures, for those breeds that cannot tolerate lower
temperatures without stress or discomfort (such as short-haired breeds), and
for sick, aged, young, or infirm dogs and cats, except as approved by the
attending veterinarian. Dry bedding, solid resting boards, or other methods of
conserving body heat must be provided when temperatures are below 50 °F (10
°C). The ambient temperature must not fall below 45 °F (7.2 °C) for
more than 4 consecutive hours when dogs or cats are present, and must not rise
above 85 °F (29.5 °C) for more than 4 consecutive hours when dogs or
cats are present. The preceding requirements are in addition to, not in place
of, all other requirements pertaining to climatic conditions in parts 2 and 3
of this chapter.
(b) Ventilation.
Indoor housing facilities for dogs and cats must be sufficiently ventilated at
all times when dogs or cats are present to provide for their health and
well-being, and to minimize odors, drafts, ammonia levels, and moisture
condensation. Ventilation must be provided by windows, vents, fans, or air
conditioning. Auxiliary ventilation, such as fans, blowers, or air conditioning
must be provided when the ambient temperature is 85 °F (29.5 °C) or
higher. The relative humidity must be maintained at a level that ensures the
health and well-being of the dogs or cats housed therein, in accordance with
the directions of the attending veterinarian and generally accepted
professional and husbandry practices.
(c) Lighting. Indoor housing facilities for
dogs and cats must be lighted well enough to permit routine inspection and
cleaning of the facility, and observation of the dogs and cats. Animal areas
must be provided a regular diurnal lighting cycle of either natural or
artificial light. Lighting must be uniformly diffused throughout animal
facilities and provide sufficient illumination to aid in maintaining good
housekeeping practices, adequate cleaning, adequate inspection of animals, and
for the well-being of the animals. Primary enclosures must be placed so as to
protect the dogs and cats from excessive light.
(d) Interior surfaces. The floors and walls
of indoor housing facilities, and any other surfaces in contact with the
animals, must be impervious to moisture. The ceilings of indoor housing
facilities must be impervious to moisture or be replaceable (e.g., a suspended
ceiling with replaceable panels).
§ 3.3 Sheltered housing
facilities.
(a)
Heating, cooling, and temperature. The sheltered part of sheltered housing
facilities for dogs and cats must be sufficiently heated and cooled when
necessary to protect the dogs and cats from temperature or humidity extremes
and to provide for their health and well-being. The ambient temperature in the
sheltered part of the facility must not fall below 50 °F (10 °C) for
dogs and cats not acclimated to lower temperatures, for those breeds that
cannot tolerate lower temperatures without stress and discomfort (such as
short-haired breeds), and for sick, aged, young, or infirm dogs or cats, except
as approved by the attending veterinarian. Dry bedding, solid resting boards,
or other methods of conserving body heat must be provided when temperatures are
below 50 °F (10 °C). The ambient temperature must not fall below 45
°F (7.2 °C) for more than 4 consecutive hours when dogs or cats are
present, and must not rise above 85 °F (29.5 °C) for more than 4
consecutive hours when dogs or cats are present. The preceding requirements are
in addition to, not in place of, all other requirements pertaining to climatic
conditions in parts 2 and 3 of this chapter.
(b) Ventilation. The enclosed or sheltered
part of sheltered housing facilities for dogs and cats must be sufficiently
ventilated when dogs or cats are present to provide for their health and
well-being, and to minimize odors, drafts, ammonia levels, and moisture
condensation. Ventilation must be provided by windows, doors, vents, fans, or
air conditioning. Auxiliary ventilation, such as fans, blowers, or
air-conditioning, must be provided when the ambient temperature is 85 °F
(29.5 °C) or higher.
(c)
Lighting. Sheltered housing facilities for dogs and cats must be lighted well
enough to permit routine inspection and cleaning of the facility, and
observation of the dogs and cats. Animal areas must be provided a regular
diurnal lighting cycle of either natural or artificial light. Lighting must be
uniformly diffused throughout animal facilities and provide sufficient
illumination to aid in maintaining good housekeeping practices, adequate
cleaning, adequate inspection of animals, and for the well-being of the
animals. Primary enclosures must be placed so as to protect the dogs and cats
from excessive light.
(d) Shelter
from the elements. Dogs and cats must be provided with adequate shelter from
the elements at all times to protect their health and well-being. The shelter
structures must be large enough to allow each animal to sit, stand, and lie in
a normal manner and to turn about freely.
(e) Surfaces.
(1) The following areas in sheltered housing
facilities must be impervious to moisture:
(i) Indoor floor areas in contact with the
animals;
(ii) Outdoor floor areas
in contact with the animals, when the floor areas are not exposed to the direct
sun, or are made of a hard material such as wire, wood, metal, or concrete;
and
(iii) All walls, boxes, houses,
dens, and other surfaces in contact with the animals.
(2) Outside floor areas in contact with the
animals and exposed to the direct sun may consist of compacted earth, absorbent
bedding, sand, gravel, or grass.
§ 3.4 Outdoor housing
facilities.
(a)
Restrictions.
(1) The following categories of
dogs or cats must not be kept in outdoor facilities, unless that practice is
specifically approved by the attending veterinarian:
(i) Dogs or cats that are not acclimated to
the temperatures prevalent in the area or region where they are
maintained;
(ii) Breeds of dogs or
cats that cannot tolerate the prevalent temperatures of the area without stress
or discomfort (such as short-haired breeds in cold climates); and
(iii) Sick, infirm, aged or young dogs or
cats.
(2) When their
acclimation status is unknown, dogs and cats must not be kept in outdoor
facilities when the ambient temperature is less than 50 °F (10
°C).
(b) Shelter
from the elements. Outdoor facilities for dogs or cats must include one or more
shelter structures that are accessible to each animal in each outdoor facility,
and that are large enough to allow each animal in the shelter structure to sit,
stand, and lie in a normal manner, and to turn about freely. In addition to the
shelter structures, one or more separate outside areas of shade must be
provided, large enough to contain all the animals at one time and protect them
from the direct rays of the sun. Shelters in outdoor facilities for dogs or
cats must contain a roof, four sides, and a floor, and must:
(1) Provide the dogs and cats with adequate
protection and shelter from the cold and heat;
(2) Provide the dogs and cats with protection
from the direct rays of the sun and the direct effect of wind, rain, or
snow;
(3) Be provided with a wind
break and rain break at the entrance; and
(4) Contain clean, dry, bedding material if
the ambient temperature is below 50 °F (10 °C). Additional clean, dry
bedding is required when the temperature is 35 °F (1.7 °C) or
lower.
(c) Construction.
Building surfaces in contact with animals in outdoor housing facilities must be
impervious to moisture. Metal barrels, cars, refrigerators or freezers, and the
like must not be used as shelter structures. The floors of outdoor housing
facilities may be of compacted earth, absorbent bedding, sand, gravel, or
grass, and must be replaced if there are any prevalent odors, diseases,
insects, pests, or vermin. All surfaces must be maintained on a regular basis.
Surfaces of outdoor housing facilities--including houses, dens, etc.--that
cannot be readily cleaned and sanitized, must be replaced when worn or soiled.
§ 3.5 Mobile or traveling housing
facilities.
(a)
Heating, cooling, and temperature. Mobile or traveling housing facilities for
dogs and cats must be sufficiently heated and cooled when necessary to protect
the dogs and cats from temperature or humidity extremes and to provide for
their health and well-being. The ambient temperature in the mobile or traveling
housing facility must not fall below 50 °F (10 °C) for dogs and cats
not acclimated to lower temperatures, for those breeds that cannot tolerate
lower temperatures without stress or discomfort (such as short-haired breeds),
and for sick, aged, young, or infirm dogs and cats. Dry bedding, solid resting
boards, or other methods of conserving body heat must be provided when
temperatures are below 50 °F (10 °C). The ambient temperature must not
fall below 45 °F (7.2 °C) for more than 4 consecutive hours when dogs
or cats are present, and must not exceed 85 °F (29.5 °C) for more than
4 consecutive hours when dogs or cats are present. The preceding requirements
are in addition to, not in place of, all other requirements pertaining to
climatic conditions in parts 2 and 3 of this chapter.
(b) Ventilation. Mobile or traveling housing
facilities for dogs and cats must be sufficiently ventilated at all times when
dogs or cats are present to provide for the health and well-being of the
animals, and to minimize odors, drafts, ammonia levels, moisture condensation,
and exhaust fumes. Ventilation must be provided by means of windows, doors,
vents, fans, or air conditioning. Auxiliary ventilation, such as fans, blowers,
or air conditioning, must be provided when the ambient temperature within the
animal housing area is 85 °F (29.5 °C) or higher.
(c) Lighting. Mobile or traveling housing
facilities for dogs and cats must be lighted well enough to permit proper
cleaning and inspection of the facility, and observation of the dogs and cats.
Animal areas must be provided a regular diurnal lighting cycle of either
natural or artificial light. Lighting must be uniformly diffused throughout
animal facilities and provide sufficient illumination to aid in maintaining
good housekeeping practices, adequate cleaning, adequate inspection of animals,
and for the well-being of the animals.
§ 3.6 Primary
enclosures.
Primary enclosures for dogs and cats must meet the following
minimum requirements:
(a) General
requirements.
(1) Primary enclosures must be
designed and constructed of suitable materials so that they are structurally
sound. The primary enclosures must be kept in good repair.
(2) Primary enclosures must be constructed
and maintained so that they:
(i) Have no
sharp points or edges that could injure the dogs and cats;
(ii) Protect the dogs and cats from
injury;
(iii) Contain the dogs and
cats securely;
(iv) Keep other
animals from entering the enclosure;
(v) Enable the dogs and cats to remain dry
and clean;
(vi) Provide shelter and
protection from extreme temperatures and weather conditions that may be
uncomfortable or hazardous to all the dogs and cats;
(vii) Provide sufficient shade to shelter all
the dogs and cats housed in the primary enclosure at one time;
(viii) Provide all the dogs and cats with
easy and convenient access to clean food and water;
(ix) Enable all surfaces in contact with the
dogs and cats to be readily cleaned and sanitized in accordance with
§ 3.11(b) of this subpart, or be replaceable when
worn or soiled;
(x) Have floors
that are constructed in a manner that protects the dogs' and cats' feet and
legs from injury, and that, if of mesh or slatted construction, do not allow
the dogs' and cats' feet to pass through any openings in the floor;
(xi) Provide sufficient space to allow each
dog and cat to turn about freely, to stand, sit, and lie in a comfortable,
normal position, and to walk in a normal manner; and
(xii) Primary enclosures constructed on or
after February 20, 1998 and floors replaced on or after that date, must comply
with the requirements in this paragraph (a)(2). On or after January 21, 2000,
all primary enclosures must be in compliance with the requirements in this
paragraph (a)(2). If the suspended floor of a primary enclosure is constructed
of metal strands, the strands must either be greater than 1/8 of an inch in
diameter (9 gauge) or coated with a material such as plastic or fiberglass. The
suspended floor of any primary enclosure must be strong enough so that the
floor does not sag or bend between the structural supports.
(b) Additional
requirements for cats.
(1) Space. Each cat,
including weaned kittens, that is housed in any primary enclosure must be
provided minimum vertical space and floor space as follows:
(i) Prior to February 15, 1994 each cat
housed in any primary enclosure shall be provided a minimum of 2 1/2 square
feet of floor space;
(ii) On and
after February 15, 1994:
(A) Each primary
enclosure housing cats must be at least 24 in. high (60.96 cm);
(B) Cats up to and including 8.8 lbs (4 kg)
must be provided with at least 3.0 ft2 (0.28
m2);
(C)
Cats over 8.8 lbs (4 kg) must be provided with at least 4.0
ft2 (0.37 m2);
(iii) Each queen with nursing
kittens must be provided with an additional amount of floor space, based on her
breed and behavioral characteristics, and in accordance with generally accepted
husbandry practices. If the additional amount of floor space for each nursing
kitten is equivalent to less than 5 percent of the minimum requirement for the
queen, such housing must be approved by the attending veterinarian in the case
of a research facility, and, in the case of dealers and exhibitors, such
housing must be approved by the Administrator; and
(iv) The minimum floor space required by this
section is exclusive of any food or water pans. The litter pan may be
considered part of the floor space if properly cleaned and sanitized.
(2) Compatibility. All cats housed
in the same primary enclosure must be compatible, as determined by observation.
Not more than 12 adult nonconditioned cats may be housed in the same primary
enclosure. Queens in heat may not be housed in the same primary enclosure with
sexually mature males, except for breeding. Except when maintained in breeding
colonies, queens with litters may not be housed in the same primary enclosure
with other adult cats, and kittens under 4 months of age may not be housed in
the same primary enclosure with adult cats, other than the dam or foster dam.
Cats with a vicious or aggressive disposition must be housed
separately.
(3) Litter. In all
primary enclosures, a receptacle containing sufficient clean litter must be
provided to contain excreta and body wastes.
(4) Resting surfaces. Each primary enclosure
housing cats must contain a resting surface or surfaces that, in the aggregate,
are large enough to hold all the occupants of the primary enclosure at the same
time comfortably. The resting surfaces must be elevated, impervious to
moisture, and be able to be easily cleaned and sanitized, or easily replaced
when soiled or worn. Low resting surfaces that do not allow the space under
them to be comfortably occupied by the animal will be counted as part of the
floor space.
(5) Cats in mobile or
traveling shows or acts. Cats that are part of a mobile or traveling show or
act may be kept, while the show or act is traveling from one temporary location
to another, in transport containers that comply with all requirements of
§ 3.14 of this subpart other than the marking
requirements in § 3.14(a)(6) of this subpart.
When the show or act is not traveling, the cats must be placed in primary
enclosures that meet the minimum requirements of this section.
(c) Additional requirements for
dogs--
(1) Space.
(i) Each dog housed in a primary enclosure
(including weaned puppies) must be provided a minimum amount of floor space,
calculated as follows: Find the mathematical square of the sum of the length of
the dog in inches (measured from the tip of its nose to the base of its tail)
plus 6 inches; then divide the product by 144. The calculation is: (length of
dog in inches + 6) x (length of dog in inches + 6) = required floor space in
square inches. Required floor space in inches/144 = required floor space in
square feet.
(ii) Each bitch with
nursing puppies must be provided with an additional amount of floor space,
based on her breed and behavioral characteristics, and in accordance with
generally accepted husbandry practices as determined by the attending
veterinarian. If the additional amount of floor space for each nursing puppy is
less than 5 percent of the minimum requirement for the bitch, such housing must
be approved by the attending veterinarian in the case of a research facility,
and, in the case of dealers and exhibitors, such housing must be approved by
the Administrator.
(iii) The
interior height of a primary enclosure must be at least 6 inches higher than
the head of the tallest dog in the enclosure when it is in a normal standing
position: Provided That, prior to February 15, 1994, each dog
must be able to stand in a comfortable normal position.
(2) Compatibility. All dogs housed in the
same primary enclosure must be compatible, as determined by observation. Not
more than 12 adult nonconditioned dogs may be housed in the same primary
enclosure. Bitches in heat may not be housed in the same primary enclosure with
sexually mature males, except for breeding. Except when maintained in breeding
colonies, bitches with litters may not be housed in the same primary enclosure
with other adult dogs, and puppies under 4 months of age may not be housed in
the same primary enclosure with adult dogs, other than the dam or foster dam.
Dogs with a vicious or aggressive disposition must be housed
separately.
(3) Dogs in mobile or
traveling shows or acts. Dogs that are part of a mobile or traveling show or
act may be kept, while the show or act is traveling from one temporary location
to another, in transport containers that comply with all requirements of
§ 3.14 of this subpart other than the marking
requirements in § 3.14(a)(6) of this subpart.
When the show or act is not traveling, the dogs must be placed in primary
enclosures that meet the minimum requirements of this section.
(4) Prohibited means of primary enclosure.
Permanent tethering of dogs is prohibited for use as primary enclosure.
Temporary tethering of dogs is prohibited for use as primary enclosure unless
approval is obtained from APHIS.
(d) Innovative primary enclosures not
precisely meeting the floor area and height requirements provided in paragraphs
(b)(1) and (c)(1) of this section, but that provide the dogs or cats with a
sufficient volume of space and the opportunity to express species-typical
behavior, may be used at research facilities when approved by the Committee,
and by dealers and exhibitors when approved by the Administrator.
(Approved by the Office of Management and Budget under
control number 0579-0093)
§ 3.7 Compatible
grouping.
Dogs and cats that are housed in the same primary enclosure
must be compatible, with the following restrictions:
(a) Females in heat (estrus) may not be
housed in the same primary enclosure with males, except for breeding
purposes;
(b) Any dog or cat
exhibiting a vicious or overly aggressive disposition must be housed
separately;
(c) Puppies or kittens
4 months of age or less may not be housed in the same primary enclosure with
adult dogs or cats other than their dams or foster dams, except when
permanently maintained in breeding colonies;
(d) Dogs or cats may not be housed in the
same primary enclosure with any other species of animals, unless they are
compatible; and
(e) Dogs and cats
that have or are suspected of having a contagious disease must be isolated from
healthy animals in the colony, as directed by the attending veterinarian. When
an entire group or room of dogs and cats is known to have or believed to be
exposed to an infectious agent, the group may be kept intact during the process
of diagnosis, treatment, and control.
§ 3.8 Exercise for
dogs.
Dealers, exhibitors, and research facilities must develop,
document, and follow an appropriate plan to provide dogs with the opportunity
for exercise. In addition, the plan must be approved by the attending
veterinarian. The plan must include written standard procedures to be followed
in providing the opportunity for exercise. The plan must be made available to
APHIS upon request, and, in the case of research facilities, to officials of
any pertinent funding Federal agency. The plan, at a minimum, must comply with
each of the following:
(a) Dogs housed
individually. Dogs over 12 weeks of age, except bitches with litters, housed,
held, or maintained by any dealer, exhibitor, or research facility, including
Federal research facilities, must be provided the opportunity for exercise
regularly if they are kept individually in cages, pens, or runs that provide
less than two times the required floor space for that dog, as indicated by
§ 3.6(c)(1) of this subpart.
(b) Dogs housed in groups. Dogs over 12 weeks
of age housed, held, or maintained in groups by any dealer, exhibitor, or
research facility, including Federal research facilities, do not require
additional opportunity for exercise regularly if they are maintained in cages,
pens, or runs that provide in total at least 100 percent of the required space
for each dog if maintained separately. Such animals may be maintained in
compatible groups, unless:
(1) Housing in
compatible groups is not in accordance with a research proposal and the
proposal has been approved by the research facility Committee;
(2) In the opinion of the attending
veterinarian, such housing would adversely affect the health or well-being of
the dog(s); or
(3) Any dog exhibits
aggressive or vicious behavior.
(c) Methods and period of providing exercise
opportunity.
(1) The frequency, method, and
duration of the opportunity for exercise shall be determined by the attending
veterinarian and, at research facilities, in consultation with and approval by
the Committee.
(2) Dealers,
exhibitors, and research facilities, in developing their plan, should consider
providing positive physical contact with humans that encourages exercise
through play or other similar activities. If a dog is housed, held, or
maintained at a facility without sensory contact with another dog, it must be
provided with positive physical contact with humans at least daily.
(3) The opportunity for exercise may be
provided in a number of ways, such as:
(i)
Group housing in cages, pens or runs that provide at least 100 percent of the
required space for each dog if maintained separately under the minimum floor
space requirements of § 3.6(c)(1) of this
subpart;
(ii) Maintaining
individually housed dogs in cages, pens, or runs that provide at least twice
the minimum floor space required by § 3.6(c)(1)
of this subpart;
(iii) Providing
access to a run or open area at the frequency and duration prescribed by the
attending veterinarian; or
(iv)
Other similar activities.
(4) Forced exercise methods or devices such
as swimming, treadmills, or carousel-type devices are unacceptable for meeting
the exercise requirements of this section.
(d) Exemptions.
(1) If, in the opinion of the attending
veterinarian, it is inappropriate for certain dogs to exercise because of their
health, condition, or well-being, the dealer, exhibitor, or research facility
may be exempted from meeting the requirements of this section for those dogs.
Such exemption must be documented by the attending veterinarian and, unless the
basis for exemption is a permanent condition, must be reviewed at least every
30 days by the attending veterinarian.
(2) A research facility may be exempted from
the requirements of this section if the principal investigator determines for
scientific reasons set forth in the research proposal that it is inappropriate
for certain dogs to exercise. Such exemption must be documented in the
Committee-approved proposal and must be reviewed at appropriate intervals as
determined by the Committee, but not less than annually.
(3) Records of any exemptions must be
maintained and made available to USDA officials or any pertinent funding
Federal agency upon request.
(Approved by the Office of Management and Budget under
control number 0579-0093)
§ 3.9
Feeding.
(a) Dogs
and cats must be fed at least once each day, except as otherwise might be
required to provide adequate veterinary care. The food must be uncontaminated,
wholesome, palatable, and of sufficient quantity and nutritive value to
maintain the normal condition and weight of the animal. The diet must be
appropriate for the individual animal's age and condition.
(b) Food receptacles must be used for dogs
and cats, must be readily accessible to all dogs and cats, and must be located
so as to minimize contamination by excreta and pests, and be protected from
rain and snow. Feeding pans must either be made of a durable material that can
be easily cleaned and sanitized or be disposable. If the food receptacles are
not disposable, they must be kept clean and must be sanitized in accordance
with
§ 3.11(b) of this subpart. Sanitization is
achieved by using one of the methods described in
§
3.11(b)(3) of this subpart. If the food receptacles are
disposable, they must be discarded after one use. Self-feeders may be used for
the feeding of dry food. If self-feeders are used, they must be kept clean and
must be sanitized in accordance with
§ 3.11(b) of
this subpart. Measures must be taken to ensure that there is no molding,
deterioration, and caking of feed.
§ 3.10
Watering.
If potable water is not continually available to the dogs and
cats, it must be offered to the dogs and cats as often as necessary to ensure
their health and well-being, but not less than twice daily for at least 1 hour
each time, unless restricted by the attending veterinarian. Water receptacles
must be kept clean and sanitized in accordance with §
3.11(b) of this subpart, and before being used to water a
different dog or cat or social grouping of dogs or cats.
§ 3.11 Cleaning, sanitization,
housekeeping, and pest control.
(a) Cleaning of primary enclosures. Excreta
and food waste must be removed from primary enclosures daily, and from under
primary enclosures as often as necessary to prevent an excessive accumulation
of feces and food waste, to prevent soiling of the dogs or cats contained in
the primary enclosures, and to reduce disease hazards, insects, pests and
odors. When steam or water is used to clean the primary enclosure, whether by
hosing, flushing, or other methods, dogs and cats must be removed, unless the
enclosure is large enough to ensure the animals would not be harmed, wetted, or
distressed in the process. Standing water must be removed from the primary
enclosure and animals in other primary enclosures must be protected from being
contaminated with water and other wastes during the cleaning. The pans under
primary enclosures with grill-type floors and the ground areas under raised
runs with mesh or slatted floors must be cleaned as often as necessary to
prevent accumulation of feces and food waste and to reduce disease hazards
pests, insects and odors.
(b)
Sanitization of primary enclosures and food and water receptacles.
(1) Used primary enclosures and food and
water receptacles must be cleaned and sanitized in accordance with this section
before they can be used to house, feed, or water another dog or cat, or social
grouping of dogs or cats.
(2) Used
primary enclosures and food and water receptacles for dogs and cats must be
sanitized at least once every 2 weeks using one of the methods prescribed in
paragraph (b)(3) of this section, and more often if necessary to prevent an
accumulation of dirt, debris, food waste, excreta, and other disease
hazards.
(3) Hard surfaces of
primary enclosures and food and water receptacles must be sanitized using one
of the following methods:
(i) Live steam under
pressure;
(ii) Washing with hot
water (at least 180 °F (82.2 °C)) and soap or detergent, as with a
mechanical cage washer; or
(iii)
Washing all soiled surfaces with appropriate detergent solutions and
disinfectants, or by using a combination detergent/disinfectant product that
accomplishes the same purpose, with a thorough cleaning of the surfaces to
remove organic material, so as to remove all organic material and mineral
buildup, and to provide sanitization followed by a clean water rinse.
(4) Pens, runs, and outdoor
housing areas using material that cannot be sanitized using the methods
provided in paragraph (b)(3) of this section, such as gravel, sand, grass,
earth, or absorbent bedding, must be sanitized by removing the contaminated
material as necessary to prevent odors, diseases, pests, insects, and vermin
infestation.
(c)
Housekeeping for premises. Premises where housing facilities are located,
including buildings and surrounding grounds, must be kept clean and in good
repair to protect the animals from injury, to facilitate the husbandry
practices required in this subpart, and to reduce or eliminate breeding and
living areas for rodents and other pests and vermin. Premises must be kept free
of accumulations of trash, junk, waste products, and discarded matter. Weeds,
grasses, and bushes must be controlled so as to facilitate cleaning of the
premises and pest control, and to protect the health and well-being of the
animals.
(d) Pest control. An
effective program for the control of insects, external parasites affecting dogs
and cats, and birds and mammals that are pests, must be established and
maintained so as to promote the health and well-being of the animals and reduce
contamination by pests in animal areas.
§ 3.12
Employees.
Each person subject to the Animal Welfare regulations ( 9 CFR
Parts 1, 2, and 3 ) maintaining dogs and cats must have enough employees to
carry out the level of husbandry practices and care required in this subpart.
The employees who provide for husbandry and care, or handle animals, must be
supervised by an individual who has the knowledge, background, and experience
in proper husbandry and care of dogs and cats to supervise others. The employer
must be certain that the supervisor and other employees can perform to these
standards.
§ 3.13 Consignments to carriers and
intermediate handlers.
(a) Carriers and intermediate handlers must
not accept a dog or cat for transport in commerce more than 4 hours before the
scheduled departure time of the primary conveyance on which the animal is to be
transported. However, a carrier or intermediate handler may agree with anyone
consigning a dog or cat to extend this time by up to 2 hours.
(b) Carriers and intermediate handlers must
not accept a dog or cat for transport in commerce unless they are provided with
the name, address, and telephone number of the consignee.
(c) Carriers and intermediate handlers must
not accept a dog or cat for transport in commerce unless the consignor
certifies in writing to the carrier or intermediate handler that the dog or cat
was offered food and water during the 4 hours before delivery to the carrier or
intermediate handler. The certification must be securely attached to the
outside of the primary enclosure in a manner that makes it easily noticed and
read. Instructions for no food or water are not acceptable unless directed by
the attending veterinarian. Instructions must be in compliance with
§ 3.16 of this subpart. The certification must
include the following information for each dog and cat:
(1) The consignor's name and
address;
(2) The tag number or
tattoo assigned to each dog or cat under §§
2.38 and 2.50 of this chapter;
(3) The time and date the animal was last fed
and watered and the specific instructions for the next feeding(s) and
watering(s) for a 24-hour period; and
(4) The consignor's signature and the date
and time the certification was signed.
(d) Carriers and intermediate handlers must
not accept a dog or cat for transport in commerce in a primary enclosure unless
the primary enclosure meets the requirements of §
3.14 of this subpart. A carrier or intermediate handler must not
accept a dog or cat for transport if the primary enclosure is obviously
defective or damaged and cannot reasonably be expected to safely and
comfortably contain the dog or cat without causing suffering or
injury.
(e) Carriers and
intermediate handlers must not accept a dog or cat for transport in commerce
unless their animal holding area meets the minimum temperature requirements
provided in
§§ 3.18 and
3.19 of this subpart, or unless the consignor provides
them with a certificate signed by a veterinarian and dated no more than 10 days
before delivery of the animal to the carrier or intermediate handler for
transport in commerce, certifying that the animal is acclimated to temperatures
lower than those required in
§§ 3.18 and
3.19 of this subpart. Even if the carrier or
intermediate handler receives this certification, the temperatures the dog or
cat is exposed to while in a terminal facility must not be lower than 45 °F
(2.2 °C) for more than 4 consecutive hours when dogs or cats are present,
as set forth in
§ 3.18, nor lower than 45 °F
(2.2 °C) for more than 45 minutes, as set forth in
§
3.19, when moving dogs or cats to or from terminal facilities or
primary conveyances. A copy of the certification must accompany the dog or cat
to its destination and must include the following information:
(1) The consignor's name and
address;
(2) The tag number or
tattoo assigned to each dog or cat under §§
2.38 and 2.50 of this chapter;
(3) A statement by a veterinarian, dated no
more than 10 days before delivery, that to the best of his or her knowledge,
each of the dogs or cats contained in the primary enclosure is acclimated to
air temperatures lower than 50 °F (10 °C); but not lower than a minimum
temperature, specified on a certificate, that the attending veterinarian has
determined is based on generally accepted temperature standards for the age,
condition, and breed of the dog or cat; and
(4) The signature of the veterinarian and the
date the certification was signed.
(f) When a primary enclosure containing a dog
or cat has arrived at the animal holding area at a terminal facility after
transport, the carrier or intermediate handler must attempt to notify the
consignee upon arrival and at least once in every 6-hour period thereafter. The
time, date, and method of all attempted notifications and the actual
notification of the consignee, and the name of the person who notifies or
attempts to notify the consignee must be written either on the carrier's or
intermediate handler's copy of the shipping document or on the copy that
accompanies the primary enclosure. If the consignee cannot be notified within
24 hours after the dog or cat has arrived at the terminal facility, the carrier
or intermediate handler must return the animal to the consignor or to whomever
the consignor designates. If the consignee is notified of the arrival and does
not accept delivery of the dog or cat within 48 hours after arrival of the dog
or cat, the carrier or intermediate handler must return the animal to the
consignor or to whomever the consignor designates. The carrier or intermediate
handler must continue to provide proper care, feeding, and housing to the dog
or cat, and maintain the dog or cat in accordance with generally accepted
professional and husbandry practices until the consignee accepts delivery of
the dog or cat or until it is returned to the consignor or to whomever the
consignor designates. The carrier or intermediate handler must obligate the
consignor to reimburse the carrier or intermediate handler for the cost of
return transportation and care.
(Approved by the Office of Management and Budget under
control number 0579-0093)
§ 3.14 Primary enclosures used to
transport live dogs and cats.
Any person subject to the Animal Welfare regulations ( 9 CFR
parts 1, 2, and 3 ) must not transport or deliver for transport in commerce a
dog or cat unless the following requirements are met:
(a) Construction of primary enclosures. The
dog or cat must be contained in a primary enclosure such as a compartment,
transport cage, carton, or crate. Primary enclosures used to transport dogs and
cats must be constructed so that:
(1) The
primary enclosure is strong enough to contain the dogs and cats securely and
comfortably and to withstand the normal rigors of transportation;
(2) The interior of the primary enclosure has
no sharp points or edges and no protrusions that could injure the animal
contained in it;
(3) The dog or cat
is at all times securely contained within the enclosure and cannot put any part
of its body outside the enclosure in a way that could result in injury to
itself, to handlers, or to persons or animals nearby;
(4) The dog or cat can be easily and quickly
removed from the enclosure in an emergency;
(5) Unless the enclosure is permanently
affixed to the conveyance, adequate devices such as handles or handholds are
provided on its exterior, and enable the enclosure to be lifted without tilting
it, and ensure that anyone handling the enclosure will not come into physical
contact with the animal contained inside;
(6) Unless the enclosure is permanently
affixed to the conveyance, it is clearly marked on top and on one or more sides
with the words "Live Animals," in letters at least 1 inch (2.5 cm.) high, and
with arrows or other markings to indicate the correct upright position of the
primary enclosure;
(7) Any
material, treatment, paint, preservative, or other chemical used in or on the
enclosure is nontoxic to the animal and not harmful to the health or well-being
of the animal;
(8) Proper
ventilation is provided to the animal in accordance with paragraph (c) of this
section; and
(9) The primary
enclosure has a solid, leak-proof bottom or a removable, leak-proof collection
tray under a slatted or mesh floor that prevents seepage of waste products,
such as excreta and body fluids, outside of the enclosure. If a slatted or mesh
floor is used in the enclosure, it must be designed and constructed so that the
animal cannot put any part of its body between the slats or through the holes
in the mesh. Unless the dogs and cats are on raised slatted floors or raised
floors made of mesh, the primary enclosure must contain enough previously
unused litter to absorb and cover excreta. The litter must be of a suitably
absorbent material that is safe and nontoxic to the dogs and cats.
(b) Cleaning of primary
enclosures. A primary enclosure used to hold or transport dogs or cats in
commerce must be cleaned and sanitized before each use in accordance with the
methods provided in § 3.11(b)(3) of this subpart.
If the dogs or cats are in transit for more than 24 hours, the enclosures must
be cleaned and any litter replaced, or other methods, such as moving the
animals to another enclosure, must be utilized to prevent the soiling of the
dogs or cats by body wastes. If it becomes necessary to remove the dog or cat
from the enclosure in order to clean, or to move the dog or cat to another
enclosure, this procedure must be completed in a way that safeguards the dog or
cat from injury and prevents escape.
(c) Ventilation.
(1) Unless the primary enclosure is
permanently affixed to the conveyance, there must be:
(i) Ventilation openings located on two
opposing walls of the primary enclosure and the openings must be at least 16
percent of the surface area of each such wall, and the total combined surface
area of the ventilation openings must be at least 14 percent of the total
combined surface area of all the walls of the primary enclosure; or
(ii) Ventilation openings on three walls of
the primary enclosure, and the openings on each of the two opposing walls must
be at least 8 percent of the total surface area of the two walls, and the
ventilation openings on the third wall of the primary enclosure must be at
least 50 percent of the total surface area of that wall, and the total combined
surface area of the ventilation openings must be at least 14 percent of the
total combined surface area of all the walls of the primary enclosure;
or
(iii) Ventilation openings
located on all four walls of the primary enclosure and the ventilation openings
on each of the four walls must be at least 8 percent of the total surface area
of each such wall, and the total combined surface area of the openings must be
at least 14 percent of total combined surface area of all the walls of the
primary enclosure; and
(iv) At
least one-third of the ventilation area must be located on the upper half of
the primary enclosure.
(2) Unless the primary enclosure is
permanently affixed to the conveyance, projecting rims or similar devices must
be located on the exterior of each enclosure wall having a ventilation opening,
in order to prevent obstruction of the openings. The projecting rims or similar
devices must be large enough to provide a minimum air circulation space of 0.75
in. (1.9 cm) between the primary enclosure and anything the enclosure is placed
against.
(3) If a primary enclosure
is permanently affixed to the primary conveyance so that there is only a front
ventilation opening for the enclosure, the primary enclosure must be affixed to
the primary conveyance in such a way that the front ventilation opening cannot
be blocked, and the front ventilation opening must open directly to an
unobstructed aisle or passageway inside the conveyance. The ventilation opening
must be at least 90 percent of the total area of the front wall of the
enclosure, and must be covered with bars, wire mesh, or smooth expanded metal
having air spaces.
(d)
Compatibility.
(1) Live dogs or cats
transported in the same primary enclosure must be of the same species and be
maintained in compatible groups, except that dogs and cats that are private
pets, are of comparable size, and are compatible, may be transported in the
same primary enclosure.
(2) Puppies
or kittens 4 months of age or less may not be transported in the same primary
enclosure with adult dogs or cats other than their dams.
(3) Dogs or cats that are overly aggressive
or exhibit a vicious disposition must be transported individually in a primary
enclosure.
(4) Any female dog or
cat in heat (estrus) may not be transported in the same primary enclosure with
any male dog or cat.
(e)
Space and placement.
(1) Primary enclosures
used to transport live dogs and cats must be large enough to ensure that each
animal contained in the primary enclosure has enough space to turn about
normally while standing, to stand and sit erect, and to lie in a natural
position.
(2) Primary enclosures
used to transport dogs and cats must be positioned in the primary conveyance so
as to provide protection from the elements.
(f) Transportation by air.
(1) No more than one live dog or cat, 6
months of age or older, may be transported in the same primary enclosure when
shipped via air carrier.
(2) No
more than one live puppy, 8 weeks to 6 months of age, and weighing over 20 lbs
(9 kg), may be transported in a primary enclosure when shipped via air
carrier.
(3) No more than two live
puppies or kittens, 8 weeks to 6 months of age, that are of comparable size ,
and weighing 20 lbs (9 kg) or less each, may be transported in the same primary
enclosure when shipped via air carrier.
(4) Weaned live puppies or kittens less than
8 weeks of age and of comparable size, or puppies or kittens that are less than
8 weeks of age that are littermates and are accompanied by their dam, may be
transported in the same primary enclosure when shipped to research facilities,
including Federal research facilities.
(g) Transportation by surface vehicle or
privately owned aircraft.
(1) No more than
four live dogs or cats, 8 weeks of age or older, that are of comparable size,
may be transported in the same primary enclosure when shipped by surface
vehicle (including ground and water transportation) or privately owned
aircraft, and only if all other requirements of this section are met.
(2) Weaned live puppies or kittens less than
8 weeks of age and of comparable size, or puppies or kittens that are less than
8 weeks of age that are littermates and are accompanied by their dam, may be
transported in the same primary enclosure when shipped to research facilities,
including Federal research facilities, and only if all other requirements in
this section are met.
(h) Accompanying documents and records.
Shipping documents that must accompany shipments of dogs and cats may be held
by the operator of the primary conveyance, for surface transportation only, or
must be securely attached in a readily accessible manner to the outside of any
primary enclosure that is part of the shipment, in a manner that allows them to
be detached for examination and securely reattached, such as in a pocket or
sleeve. Instructions for administration of drugs, medication, and other special
care must be attached to each primary enclosure in a manner that makes them
easy to notice, to detach for examination, and to reattach securely. Food and
water instructions must be attached in accordance with
§
3.13(c).
(Approved by the Office of Management and Budget under
control number 0579-0093)
§ 3.15 Primary conveyances (motor
vehicle, rail, air, and marine).
(a) The animal cargo space of primary
conveyances used to transport dogs and cats must be designed, constructed, and
maintained in a manner that at all times protects the health and well-being of
the animals transported in them, ensures their safety and comfort, and prevents
the entry of engine exhaust from the primary conveyance during
transportation.
(b) The animal
cargo space must have a supply of air that is sufficient for the normal
breathing of all the animals being transported in it.
(c) Each primary enclosure containing dogs or
cats must be positioned in the animal cargo space in a manner that provides
protection from the elements and that allows each dog or cat enough air for
normal breathing.
(d) During air
transportation, dogs and cats must be held in cargo areas that are heated or
cooled as necessary to maintain an ambient temperature and humidity that
ensures the health and well-being of the dogs or cats. The cargo areas must be
pressurized when the primary conveyance used for air transportation is not on
the ground, unless flying under 8,000 ft. Dogs and cats must have adequate air
for breathing at all times when being transported.
(e) During surface transportation, auxiliary
ventilation, such as fans, blowers or air conditioning, must be used in any
animal cargo space containing live dogs or cats when the ambient temperature
within the animal cargo space reaches 85 °F (29.5 °C). Moreover, the
ambient temperature may not exceed 85 °F (29.5 °C) for a period of more
than 4 hours; nor fall below 45 °F (7.2 °C) for a period of more than 4
hours. The preceding requirements are in addition to, not in place of, all
other requirements pertaining to climatic conditions in parts 2 and 3 of this
chapter.
(f) Primary enclosures
must be positioned in the primary conveyance in a manner that allows the dogs
and cats to be quickly and easily removed from the primary conveyance in an
emergency.
(g) The interior of the
animal cargo space must be kept clean.
(h) Live dogs and cats may not be transported
with any material, substance (e.g., dry ice) or device in a manner that may
reasonably be expected to harm the dogs and cats or cause inhumane conditions.
§ 3.16 Food and water
requirements.
(a)
Each dog and cat that is 16 weeks of age or more must be offered food at least
once every 24 hours. Puppies and kittens less than 16 weeks of age must be
offered food at least once every 12 hours. Each dog and cat must be offered
potable water at least once every 12 hours. These time periods apply to
dealers, exhibitors, research facilities, including Federal research
facilities, who transport dogs and cats in their own primary conveyance,
starting from the time the dog or cat was last offered food and potable water
before transportation was begun. These time periods apply to carriers and
intermediate handlers starting from the date and time stated on the certificate
provided under
§ 3.13(c) of this subpart. Each
dog and cat must be offered food and potable water within 4 hours before being
transported in commerce. Consignors who are subject to the Animal Welfare
regulations ( 9 CFR parts
1,
2, and
3 ) must certify that each dog and cat was
offered food and potable water within the 4 hours preceding delivery of the dog
or cat to a carrier or intermediate handler for transportation in commerce, and
must certify the date and time the food and potable water was offered, in
accordance with
§ 3.13(c) of this
subpart.
(b) Any dealer, research
facility, including a Federal research facility, or exhibitor offering any dog
or cat to a carrier or intermediate handler for transportation in commerce must
securely attach to the outside of the primary enclosure used for transporting
the dog or cat, written instructions for the in-transit food and water
requirements for a 24-hour period for the dogs and cats contained in the
enclosure. The instructions must be attached in a manner that makes them easily
noticed and read.
(c) Food and
water receptacles must be securely attached inside the primary enclosure and
placed so that the receptacles can be filled from outside the enclosure without
opening the door. Food and water containers must be designed, constructed, and
installed so that a dog or cat cannot leave the primary enclosure through the
food or water opening.
(Approved by the Office of Management and Budget under
control number 0579-0093 )
[FN1] These minimum standards apply only to live dogs and
cats, unless stated otherwise.
Code of Federal Regulations
Currentness
§ 3.17 Care in
transit.
(a)
Surface transportation (ground and water). Any person subject to the Animal
Welfare regulations transporting dogs or cats in commerce must ensure that the
operator of the conveyance, or a person accompanying the operator, observes the
dogs or cats as often as circumstances allow, but not less than once every 4
hours, to make sure they have sufficient air for normal breathing, that the
ambient temperature is within the limits provided in §
3.15(e), and that all applicable standards of this subpart are
being complied with. The regulated person must ensure that the operator or
person accompanying the operator determines whether any of the dogs or cats are
in obvious physical distress and obtains any veterinary care needed for the
dogs or cats at the closest available veterinary facility.
(b) Air transportation. During air
transportation of dogs or cats, it is the responsibility of the carrier to
observe the dogs or cats as frequently as circumstances allow, but not less
than once every 4 hours if the animal cargo area is accessible during flight.
If the animal cargo area is not accessible during flight, the carrier must
observe the dogs or cats whenever they are loaded and unloaded and whenever the
animal cargo space is otherwise accessible to make sure they have sufficient
air for normal breathing, that the animal cargo area meets the heating and
cooling requirements of § 3.15(d), and that all
other applicable standards of this subpart are being complied with. The carrier
must determine whether any of the dogs or cats are in obvious physical
distress, and arrange for any needed veterinary care as soon as
possible.
(c) If a dog or cat is
obviously ill, injured, or in physical distress, it must not be transported in
commerce, except to receive veterinary care for the condition.
(d) Except during the cleaning of primary
enclosures, as required in § 3.14(b) of this
subpart, during transportation in commerce a dog or cat must not be removed
from its primary enclosure, unless it is placed in another primary enclosure or
facility that meets the requirements of § 3.6 or
§ 3.14 of this subpart.
(e) The transportation regulations contained
in this subpart must be complied with until a consignee takes physical delivery
of the dog or cat if the animal is consigned for transportation, or until the
animal is returned to the consignor.
§ 3.18 Terminal
facilities.
(a)
Placement. Any person subject to the Animal Welfare regulations ( 9 CFR parts
1, 2, and 3 ) must not commingle shipments of dogs or cats with inanimate cargo
in animal holding areas of terminal facilities.
(b) Cleaning, sanitization, and pest control.
All animal holding areas of terminal facilities must be cleaned and sanitized
in a manner prescribed in § 3.11(b)(3) of this
subpart, as often as necessary to prevent an accumulation of debris or excreta
and to minimize vermin infestation and disease hazards. Terminal facilities
must follow an effective program in all animal holding areas for the control of
insects, ectoparasites, and birds and mammals that are pests to dogs and
cats.
(c) Ventilation. Ventilation
must be provided in any animal holding area in a terminal facility containing
dogs or cats, by means of windows, doors, vents, or air conditioning. The air
must be circulated by fans, blowers, or air conditioning so as to minimize
drafts, odors, and moisture condensation. Auxiliary ventilation, such as
exhaust fans, vents, fans, blowers, or air conditioning must be used in any
animal holding area containing dogs and cats, when the ambient temperature is
85 °F (29.5 °C) or higher.
(d) Temperature. The ambient temperature in
an animal holding area containing dogs or cats must not fall below 45 °F
(7.2 °C) or rise above 85 °F (29.5 °C) for more than four
consecutive hours at any time dogs or cats are present. The ambient temperature
must be measured in the animal holding area by the carrier, intermediate
handler, or a person transporting dogs or cats who is subject to the Animal
Welfare regulations ( 9 CFR parts
1,
2, and
3 ), outside any primary enclosure
containing a dog or cat at a point not more than 3 feet (0.91 m) away from an
outside wall of the primary enclosure, and approximately midway up the side of
the enclosure. The preceding requirements are in addition to, not in place of,
all other requirements pertaining to climatic conditions in parts 2 and 3 of
this chapter.
(e) Shelter. Any
person subject to the Animal Welfare regulations ( 9 CFR parts
1,
2, and
3 )
holding a live dog or cat in an animal holding area of a terminal facility must
provide the following:
(1) Shelter from
sunlight and extreme heat. Shade must be provided that is sufficient to protect
the dog or cat from the direct rays of the sun.
(2) Shelter from rain or snow. Sufficient
protection must be provided to allow the dogs and cats to remain dry during
rain, snow, and other precipitation.
(f) Duration. The length of time any person
subject to the Animal Welfare regulations ( 9 CFR parts
1,
2, and
3 ) can hold
dogs and cats in animal holding areas of terminal facilities upon arrival is
the same as that provided in
§ 3.13(f) of this
subpart.
§ 3.19
Handling.
(a) Any
person subject to the Animal Welfare regulations ( 9 CFR parts
1,
2, and
3 )
who moves (including loading and unloading) dogs or cats within, to, or from
the animal holding area of a terminal facility or a primary conveyance must do
so as quickly and efficiently as possible and must provide the following during
movement of the dog or cat:
(1) Shelter from
sunlight and extreme heat. Sufficient shade must be provided to protect the dog
or cat from the direct rays of the sun. The dog or cat must not be exposed to
an ambient air temperature above 85 °F (29.5 °C) for a period of more
than 45 minutes while being moved to or from a primary conveyance or a terminal
facility. The temperature must be measured in the manner provided in
§ 3.18(d) of this subpart. The preceding
requirements are in addition to, not in place of, all other requirements
pertaining to climatic conditions in parts 2 and 3 of this chapter.
(2) Shelter from rain and snow. Sufficient
protection must be provided to allow the dogs and cats to remain dry during
rain, snow, and other precipitation.
(3) Shelter from cold temperatures.
Transporting devices on which live dogs or cats are placed to move them must be
covered to protect the animals when the outdoor temperature falls below 50
°F (10 °C). The dogs or cats must not be exposed to an ambient
temperature below 45 °F (7.2 °C) for a period of more than 45 minutes,
unless they are accompanied by a certificate of acclimation to lower
temperatures as provided in § 3.13(e). The
temperature must be measured in the manner provided in §
3.18(d) of this subpart. The preceding requirements are in
addition to, not in place of, all other requirements pertaining to climatic
conditions in parts 2 and 3 of this chapter.
(b) Any person handling a primary enclosure
containing a dog or cat must use care and must avoid causing physical harm or
distress to the dog or cat.
(1) A primary
enclosure containing a live dog or cat must not be placed on unattended
conveyor belts, or on elevated conveyor belts, such as baggage claim conveyor
belts and inclined conveyor ramps that lead to baggage claim areas, at any
time; except that a primary enclosure may be placed on inclined conveyor ramps
used to load and unload aircraft if an attendant is present at each end of the
conveyor belt.
(2) A primary
enclosure containing a dog or cat must not be tossed, dropped, or needlessly
tilted, and must not be stacked in a manner that may reasonably be expected to
result in its falling. It must be handled and positioned in the manner that
written instructions and arrows on the outside of the primary enclosure
indicate.
(c) This
section applies to movement of a dog or cat from primary conveyance to primary
conveyance, within a primary conveyance or terminal facility, and to or from a
terminal facility or a primary conveyance.
(Approved by the Office of Management and Budget under
control number 0579-0093 )
[FN1] These minimum standards apply only to live dogs and
cats, unless stated otherwise.