Animal Care Policy 

Rationale: To ensure the animals under Bright Beginnings care, are respected and looked after in a way that reflects their needs and wellbeing.

Policy and Procedure:

• Bright Beginnings Community Childcare Centre, before acquiring any pets and animals, will research the needs for that animal; housing, cleaning and maintaining their living environment, feeding.
• A consultation meeting will be made with all teachers, where teachers will be informed of the care requirements.
• All teachers will be responsible for ensuring Bright Beginnings has available the supplies needed to meet the basic care needs of the animal.
• As supplies are running low, a nominated teacher will be released to source additional supplies.
• Supplies will be purchased by petty cash, managers card or by account.
• Teachers will work alongside children in handling pets and animals; teachers will help children understand how to care for and respect pets and animals.
• Children will not be left unsupervised with animals.
• Teachers will model appropriate behaviour and respect for the animals.
• Where appropriate, teachers will offer opportunities for children contribute to meeting the care needs, i.e., feeding and cleaning.
• Teachers will be aware of children’s response to animals and put practices in place to protect children’s physical and emotional wellbeing.
• Children can choose to be part of the care routine for animals.
• Children who are frightened or hesitant about an animal will be supported by a teacher
• Where animals are visiting the centre, a teacher will talk with the parent/whaanau about what that animal needs, how long the animals is going to visit, and any other information children and adults need to know
• Leashes, cages, or boxes may need to be provided by the parent/caregiver/whaanau to ensure the wellbeing of both children and the animal.