COLORADO DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Animal Industry Division
Rules and Regulations Pertaining to the Administration and Enforcement of the Pet Animal Care and Facilities Act
8 CCR 1201-11
12.00	DOG BREEDER FACILITY REGULATIONS
A.	FACILITY STANDARDS
1.	License Requirements:
No person shall operate a dog breeder facility unless the person holds a valid license issued by the Commissioner pursuant to PACFA and Sections 2.00 and 3.00 of these rules and regulations. The twelve month license period shall commence the first working day of March and must be renewed on or before the first working day of March the following calendar year.
2.	Structural Plan Evaluation:
a.	Plan Submission. Detailed plans and specifications will be submitted to the Department whenever it is proposed to erect or extensively remodel any dog breeder facility, specifically any remodeling that requires a building permit and affects a minimum of 25% of the square footage of the existing facility. Plans pertaining to upgrades which are only electrical or plumbing in nature will not require a plan submission. Each dog breeder facility or any person intending to become a dog breeder facility shall be responsible for submitting all plans and specifications. Plans shall be approved or disapproved by the Department, typically within 10 working days of submission. Approval of plans and specifications is necessary before construction can begin and final approval of the constructed facility is necessary before operation can start.
b.	Plan Specification Content Requirements. Final plans and specifications shall comply with these regulations and shall include descriptions of the ventilation system, plumbing fixtures, and floor, wall, and ceiling finishes. It is not necessary for plans and specifications to be professionally drawn, providing the plans are legible, drawn or sketched to consistent scale, with dimensions indicated, accurately depicting the intended construction or remodeling.
3.	General Standards:
a.	Interior Surfaces. The interior facility surfaces shall be constructed and maintained so that they are water resistant and can be cleaned and sanitized. These surfaces need not extend more than 18 inches beyond the perimeter of any animal enclosure or sink. Floors directly beneath all animal enclosure areas, except where those enclosures are of solid sides or so constructed as to prevent the leakage of urine or feces, must be of a material which is water resistant and can be cleaned and sanitized.
b.	Electric Power. Electric power shall be provided.
c.	Water. Potable water shall be provided for drinking purposes, with back flow prevention devices installed on any threaded faucets where hoses may be attached for cleaning the facility or on the main water line serving the facility.
d.	Washrooms and Sinks. Accessible washrooms or sinks shall be provided to maintain personal hygiene among animal caretakers. A sink in good repair or a dishwasher shall be provided for washing and sanitizing.
e.	Waste Water Disposal. Waste water from indoor facilities shall be disposed of by connection to a sanitary sewer or any state, county, or locally approved water disposal system. A method shall be provided to rapidly eliminate excess water.
f.	Protect animals kept there from injury, ensure containment of pet animals within the pet animal facility and restrict entry of other animals and humans from outside by either a building or a fence designed to be escape-proof.
B.	ANIMAL ENCLOSURE STANDARDS
1.	Primary Enclosure Defined. Primary enclosures are those animal enclosures in which the animal rests or sleeps. Such enclosures may be used temporarily or permanently.
a.	Primary enclosures shall be structurally sound and maintained in good repair. They shall be constructed and maintained to enable the animals to remain dry and clean.
b.	The floors of the primary enclosures shall be constructed to prevent injury to the animals' feet and legs. Enclosures for dogs may have wire flooring provided that the wire is of adequate gauge to prevent sagging under the weight of the animals, and the mesh is small enough to prevent the animals' feet from passing through.
c.	Dog Houses with Chains.
(1)	The use of dog houses with chains (tethering) as a primary enclosure is prohibited.
(2)	Facilities that breed, train or house Alaskan dog breeds or Alaskan breed crosses, specifically for the purpose of pulling dog sleds, may request the Commissioner in writing for a waiver of the prohibition against dog houses with chains (tethering) as a primary enclosure. Such a request for waiver shall be submitted annually with each application or reapplication for licensure. Granting such waiver is in the sole discretion of the Commissioner.
(a)	No female dogs in whelp or with puppies shall be tethered.
(b)	If dog houses with chains are used as primary enclosures for dogs kept outdoors, the chains used shall be so placed or attached that they cannot become entangled with the chains of other dogs and any other objects. Such chains should be a minimum of 6 feet and of a type commonly used for the size dog involved and shall be attached to the dog by means of a well-fitted, nontightening collar or harness. All tethering chains shall have a swivel.
(c)	If tethering is used, a fence perimeter shall surround the entire tethering area to protect the tethered dogs from predators, stray animals and humans.
d.	Indoor Facilities or Portions thereof.
(1)	Heating and Cooling. Housing for pet animals shall be sufficiently heated or cooled when necessary to protect animals from cold or heat to provide for their health. The ambient temperature shall be consistent with the requirements of the specific pet animals. Heating shall be deemed necessary when the inside temperature of the facility falls below 50 degrees Fahrenheit for a period of 4 consecutive hours and cooling shall be deemed necessary when the temperature of the facility rises above 90 degrees Fahrenheit. The ambient temperature shall be consistent with the requirements of the specific breed, the age of the animal, or that to which the animal is acclimated. Ambient temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit may be acceptable for dogs so acclimated.
(2)	Ventilation. Housing for pet animals shall be ventilated with fresh or filtered air to minimize odors and moisture, and to provide for the health and comfort of the animals at all times. Means shall be provided to exhaust the air from the animal area to the outside of the building, which may be by natural or mechanical means.
(3)	Lighting. Housing for pet animals shall have well distributed natural or artificial light for routine inspections, and to facilitate routine cleaning and the proper care and maintenance of the pet animals.
(4)	Only the portions of the building or home designated as a dog breeding facility need meet the requirements set forth in this subparagraph d.
e.	Outdoor Facilities or Portions thereof.
(1)	Shelter from Sunlight. A shaded area will be provided to all dogs housed in an outdoor primary enclosure to allow protection from the direct rays of the sun. The shaded area provided shall be of a size directly proportional to the size of the dog being protected and shall be positioned so that maximum shade protection is provided.
(2)	Shelter from Rain or Snow. A shelter will be provided to allow all dogs housed in an outdoor primary enclosure to remain dry during rain or snow.
(3)	Shelter from Cold Weather. Shelter shall be provided which is a moisture-proof structure of suitable size to accommodate the animal and allow retention of body heat, made of durable material with a solid floor raised off the ground. For sled dogs a solid raised floor shall not be required.
(4)	Drainage. Outdoor enclosures shall be so designed and constructed to suitably demonstrate drainage to eliminate natural or other excess water, regardless of surfacing material.
f.	Spatial Requirements.
(1)	Temporary primary enclosures will have a minimum length equal to the length of dog from the tip of its nose to the base of its tail and shall allow a minimum clearance in height at the shoulders of 3 inches, while the dog is standing normally and permit the dog to turn around and lie down. The primary enclosures with these dimensions are to be used only when the dog is sleeping or eating, when the run or exercise areas are being cleaned, during behavior modification, or when the caretaker is absent from the facility for a period of less than 10 hours. These primary enclosures are not to be used for exercise or socialization areas. Primary enclosures with these dimensions will be used to house one dog only at any given time. Confinement in an enclosure of this size shall not exceed 18 hours per day.
(2)	Permanent primary enclosures which are used for housing other than when the dog is sleeping or eating, or when the exercise areas are being cleaned, and which do not have access to a run or exercise area shall be larger to allow the dogs additional space. Minimum space standards (measured from the outside of the enclosure or by using the manufacturer’s published list of measurements):
Size of Dog	Min. Space	Height	
Extra Small (<10 inches high)	4.5 sq. ft.	18 in.	
Small (<16 inches high)	6 sq. ft.	18-24 in.	
Medium (<22 inches high)	9 sq. ft.	24-33 in.	
Large (<26 inches high)	12 sq. ft.	33-39 in.	
Extra Large (<30 inches high)	16 sq. ft.	39-45 in.	
Giant (any dog >30 inches high)	20 sq. ft.	45-48 in.	
If more than one dog occupies these primary enclosures, space will be figured for the first dog, with each additional dog needing one-half of the minimum space required.
(3)	Whelping Areas. A whelping area will allow the mother to lie stretched out on her side, permitting all puppies to nurse. The number of puppies and the temperament of the mother will be an additional factor in determining the size of the whelping area. The bitch should have enough room to leave the whelping nest. As the puppies grow, the calculations for additional dogs as specified in Subsection B1f(2) immediately above shall apply.
(4)	Nursery. Primary enclosures for puppies from weaning to age 4 months will be large enough to accommodate all occupants, allowing them to turn around, stand up, lie down, exercise normal postural movements, and to encourage socialization and exercise. The calculations for additional dogs as specified in Subsection B1f(2) above shall apply.
(5)	Runs or primary enclosures that are indoor/outdoor in combination shall be deemed one exercise run or primary enclosure for measuring purposes and shall be measured from the extreme inside to the extreme outside.
(6)	Runs and Exercise Areas. The length of runs and exercise areas shall be a minimum of three times the length of the dog from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail; the width shall be not less than one-third of this figure plus six inches; and the height shall be 1½ times the height of the dog at the shoulders, with the maximum required height of 48 inches and the minimum allowed of 18 inches.
All dogs housed in temporary primary enclosures as specified in Subsection B1f(1) above shall be provided with runs or exercise areas and shall be permitted a minimum of 60 minutes of exercise within a 24 hour period. The licensee shall document in writing, and keep on file while the dog is in the facility, evidence of the exercise of these dogs.
(a)	Runs and exercise areas may have wire flooring provided that the wire is of a gauge adequate to prevent sagging under the weight of the animal or injury to the animal's feet, and the mesh is small enough to prevent the animal's feet from passing through.
(b)	Exercise areas do not need shelter or dog houses if they are not primary enclosures, but must have shade provided with the shaded area of a size directly proportional to the size of the dog to be shaded.
(7)	Turn out pens, paddocks, extra large exercise areas, or open fields will be permitted for supervised training or exercise. Since dogs will not be left unsupervised, no shelter, dog house, shade or other structures are required to be in these areas.
C.	CARE AND HANDLING OF PET ANIMALS
1.	Food and Water:
a.	Pet animals shall be fed consistent with the nutritional needs for the age of the animal, at least once a day, except when under special veterinary care. The food shall be of such nutritional value necessary to meet the normal daily requirements for the condition and size of the animal. Perishable food shall be refrigerated.
b.	Except when under special veterinary care, if potable water is not continually available to dogs, it must be offered to the dogs as often as necessary to prevent dehydration or heat prostration.
c.	Open food and water containers shall be accessible to the pet animal and located to minimize contamination by excreta. Disposable containers may be used if discarded after each use. Self feeders and waterers may be used if cleaned regularly.
d.	Other Cleaning. Water and food containers and all other utensils shall be cleaned and sanitized using heat or chemical sanitizing solution. A dishwasher which utilizes heat or chemical sanitizing solution may suffice. These containers shall be cleaned and sanitized as often as necessary to maintain sanitary conditions.
2.	Classification and Separation:
a.	Housing. Animals housed together in the same primary enclosure shall be maintained in compatible groups, with the following additional restrictions.
b.	Females in season (estrus) shall not be kept in the same primary enclosure, run, or exercise areas with males, except for breeding purposes.
c.	Any dog exhibiting an aggressive behavior shall be housed individually in a primary enclosure, run, or exercise area.
d.	Puppies under the age of 4 months shall not be housed in the same primary enclosure, run, or exercise area with adult dogs other than their dam or foster dam, unless under direct supervision.
e.	No more than 5 dogs over six months of age may be housed in any one common area at any one time. Facilities may request annually, in writing, from the Commissioner a waiver from this requirement if they can demonstrate provision for the safety of dogs housed within common areas.
f.	Any bitch in whelp will be housed individually in a primary enclosure, pen, or exercise area a minimum of one week prior to the whelping date.
g.	Pet animals under quarantine or treatment for a suspected communicable disease shall be physically separated from other susceptible animals to minimize the dissemination of disease.
h.	Each pet animal shall be observed by the animal caretaker in charge, or by someone under the caretaker's direct supervision, on a daily basis. Sick, diseased or injured dogs shall be provided with timely veterinary care or disposed of in a humane manner, pursuant to § 35-80-102(7).
i.	Dogs shall be groomed to prevent severely matted hair and overgrown nails and so that they have freedom of movement and can perform normal bodily functions.
D.	TRANSPORTING DOGS
1.	Enclosures to Transport Dogs.
a.	Temporary enclosures, such as compartments, transport cages, or crates, if used to transport dogs shall be secured, water resistant, well constructed of cleanable material, and designed to protect the health and ensure the safety of the animals. Such enclosures shall have ventilation to ensure the comfort and health of the dogs at all times.
b.	Such enclosures shall be constructed or positioned in the vehicle in such a manner that:
(1)	Each animal in the vehicle has access to sufficient air for normal breathing.
(2)	The openings of such enclosures are accessible at all times for emergency removal of the animals.
(3)	The animals are afforded protection from the elements.
(4)	The animal areas of the vehicle shall be heated or cooled when necessary to prevent hypothermia or hyperthermia of the dogs being transported.
c.	Enclosures used to transport dogs shall be large enough to ensure that each animal contained therein has sufficient space to turn, stand, and lie down. Animals which are not conditioned to each other may not be transported in the same primary enclosure.
d.	Animals shall not be placed in enclosures over other animals in transit unless such enclosure is fitted with a floor of a material which prevents animal excreta from entering lower enclosures.
e.	Enclosures used to transport dogs shall be cleaned and sanitized between trips, or more often if necessary.
f.	Dogs shall be removed from the vehicle while in active transport a minimum of every 8 hours and allowed to urinate, defecate, and obtain exercise. The licensee shall document in writing, and keep on file while the dog is in the facility, evidence of the exercise of these dogs.
2.	Food and Water. Food and water shall be provided consistent with the requirements of Subsection C above.
3.	Classification and Separation. The same requirements of Subsection C above apply.
4.	Vehicles.
a.	Vehicles used primarily in transporting dogs shall be equipped to provide fresh or filtered air to all animals being transported without injurious drafts.
b.	The animal cargo space shall be so constructed and maintained as to minimize the ingress of exhaust from the vehicle's engine.
E.	SANITATION
1.	General Standards.
a.	Cleaning of Pet Animal Enclosures
(1)	Dogs shall be protected from exposure to water or chemical solution used in cleaning the primary enclosure. All surfaces of occupied primary enclosures shall be cleaned and sanitized as often as necessary to reduce disease hazards and odors, and to maintain sanitary conditions.
(2)	Hard Surfaced Runs and Pens. Cleaning shall be accomplished by washing all soiled surfaces with a detergent, followed by a safe and effective sanitizer.
(3)	Runs, Pens, and Exercise Areas. Gravel, sand, or soil shall be sanitized by removing the soiled gravel, sand, or soil and replacing it when the material is permeated with urine and/or fecal matter that is not removable without removing the material, or when odors are present.
b.	Housekeeping. Premises (building and grounds) shall be kept clean and in good repair in order to protect the animals from injury and to facilitate the prescribed husbandry practices. Premises shall remain free of accumulations of trash.
c.	Waste Disposal. Animal and food wastes, bedding, dead animals, debris and other organic wastes shall be disposed of so that vermin infestation, odors, disease hazards, and nuisances are minimized. Such wastes shall be removed at least weekly from the facility. As to dead animals, the licensee may wish to refer to § 25-1-612, C.R.S., as amended and any local ordinance or rules and regulations concerning proper disposal.
d.	Pest Control. Insects, parasites, and avian and mammalian pests shall be controlled.
e.	Storage. Supplies of food and bedding shall be stored off the floor or in waterproof closed containers and protected against infestation or contamination by vermin.
2.	Whelping Areas/Nursery
a.	Whelping areas and nurseries shall be kept clean and sanitized to minimize disease spread by infectious agents.
b.	When a separate whelping area/nursery is provided, only a visual inspection by the Department will be conducted if whelping is in progress or if the nursery is occupied. If entry is deemed necessary by the inspector, then unused, clean protective clothing and footwear must be worn.
F.	RECORDS
1.	Requirements:
a.	Sales Records. Records of all sales or disposition of pet animals shall be kept by the breeder facility for two years from the date of the transaction, with the records kept at the address specified in the license application. Sales records shall include the date of transaction, breed, specific identifying characteristics (if available), gender and date of birth or age of the dog, and the name and address of the purchaser.
b.	Purchase Records. Records of purchases shall also be maintained for at least 2 years, with the records kept at the address specified in the license application. Purchase records shall include the date of the transaction, the name and address of the seller, and the number, breed, specific identifying characteristics (if available), gender and date of birth or age of the animals received.
c.	A maintenance record shall be kept on each dog housed permanently at the facility. These records shall include the name of dog, breed, date of birth, gender, color and any other identifying characteristics.
d.	Veterinary Treatment Records. Treatment records shall be kept on all dogs that receive any medications and/or immunizations used in the treatment or prevention of illness, or the treatment of injury, while in the care of the dog breeder facility. These records shall include the identification of the dog receiving medical treatment, the name of the medication and/or immunization used, the amount of medication used, and the time and date on which the medication and/or immunization was administered. These records shall be kept at the dog breeder facility for a period of 60 days after the sale of the dog.
e.	Written disclosure of all treatments involving immunizations, medications, anthelmintics (dewormers) and all other treatments for parasites, administered thirty days prior to transfer, shall be provided to the purchaser of the dog at the time of the sale. A record detailing the product used, the dosage and the date administered shall be provided to the purchaser at the time of sale.
f. 	Availability. The above records shall be available to any inspector authorized by the Department at all reasonable times during business hours, or at other mutually agreeable times.
g.	Yearly Reports. The licensee shall report to the Commissioner on a yearly basis the numbers of transfers and litters to accurately determine licensing status. These figures shall be reported as set forth in Section 5.00 of these rules and regulations.
G.	SALE OR TRANSFER
1.	Reasonable care shall be taken to release for sale, trade or adoption only those dogs that are free of undisclosed disease, injury or abnormality.
2.	It is unlawful to sell, transfer or adopt dogs under the age of 8 weeks.
H.	INSPECTIONS
The facility inspector shall follow Department protocols concerning disinfection of footwear.
15.00	PET GROOMING FACILITY REGULATIONS
A.	DEFINITION: 
A permanent or mobile commercial establishment where a pet animal may be cleaned, styled or have appearance maintained.
B.	FACILITY STANDARDS
1.	License Requirements: No person shall operate a pet grooming facility unless the person holds a valid license issued by the Commissioner pursuant to PACFA and Sections 2.00 and 3.00 of these rules and regulations. The twelve month license period shall commence the first working day of March and must be renewed on or before the first working day of March the following calendar year.
a.	Independent Contractors. Any groomer licensed as an independent contractor at an already licensed facility may groom as an independent contractor at up to 2 additional licensed facilities with the same license. On the application for licensure, such groomers shall identify themselves as such and shall provide a facility name and street address for each premise at which they groom pet animals.
2.	Structural Plan Evaluation:
a.	Plan Submission. Detailed plans and specifications will be submitted to the Department whenever it is proposed to erect or extensively remodel any pet grooming facility, specifically, any remodeling that requires a building permit and affects a minimum of 25% of the square footage of the existing facility. Plans which pertain to upgrades which are only electrical or plumbing in nature will not require plan submission. Each pet grooming facility or any person intending to become a pet grooming facility shall be responsible for submitting all plans and specifications. Plans shall be approved or disapproved by the Department, typically within 10 working days of submission. Approval of plans and specifications is necessary before construction can begin and final approval of the constructed facility is necessary before operation can start.
b.	Plan Specification Content Requirements. Final plans and specifications shall comply with these regulations and shall include descriptions of the ventilation system, plumbing fixtures, and floor, wall, and ceiling finishes. It is not necessary for plans and specifications to be professionally drawn, providing the plans are legible, drawn or sketched to consistent scale, with dimensions indicated, accurately depicting the intended construction or remodeling.
3.	General Standards.
a.	Interior Surfaces. The interior facility surfaces, walls, cages, counters and tables, shall be constructed and maintained so that they are water resistant and can be cleaned and sanitized.
(1)	A water resistant flooring surface, which can be readily cleaned and sanitized, shall extend at least 18 inches beyond any animal contact area such as cages, drying tables, drying benches, and grooming tables.
b.	Electric Power. Electric power shall be provided.
c.	Water. Potable water shall be provided for drinking purposes, with back flow prevention devices installed on any threaded faucets, submersible inlets, or on the main water line serving the facility.
d.	Washrooms and Sinks. Accessible wash rooms or sinks shall be provided to maintain personal hygiene among groomers. A sink in good repair or a dishwasher shall be provided for washing and sanitizing.
e.	Waste Water Disposal. Waste water from facilities shall be disposed of by connection to a sanitary sewer, holding tank, or any state, county, or locally approved water disposal system.
f.	Heating and Cooling. The pet animal grooming facility shall be sufficiently heated or cooled when necessary to protect animals from cold or heat to provide for their health. The ambient temperature shall be consistent with the requirements of the specific pet animals. When the animals are present, heating shall be deemed necessary when the temperature falls below 50 degrees Fahrenheit for a period of 4 consecutive hours and cooling shall be deemed necessary when the temperature of the facility rises above 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
g.	Ventilation. Area for pet animals shall be ventilated with fresh or filtered air to minimize odors and moisture and to provide for the health and comfort of the animals at all times. Means shall be provided to exhaust the air from the animal area to the outside of the building.
h.	Lighting. Pet animal grooming facilities shall have well distributed natural or artificial light to facilitate routine cleaning and the proper care and maintenance of the pet animals.
i.	In the event that a licensee is grooming at a pet animal show as an auxiliary facility site of that licensee, and the site prevents the licensee from meeting any of the requirements set forth in this Section, the licensee shall notify the Commissioner in writing, in advance of the show, of the provisions which cannot be met and the reasons therefore.
C.	SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
1.	Pet animal holding or drying areas shall be large enough to allow the animal to stand, lie down, and turn around.
2.	Cages and grooming areas such as tables, benches, and tubs shall be structurally sound and maintained in good repair.
3.	The pet animal enclosures, cages or other restraint devices shall be constructed to prevent injury to the animals. Enclosures for pet animals may have wire flooring provided that the wire is of adequate gauge to prevent sagging under the weight of the animals, and the mesh is small enough to prevent their feet from passing through. 
4.	Tethering of animals is acceptable, provided the pet animal's owner consents. Tethering must be done in a manner that the tethered animal cannot become entangled with other pet animals and other objects. The tether and/or grooming loop must be attached to the dog by means of a well-fitted and nontightening collar or loop and the other end attached to a permanent, solid attachment. All tethering chains and/or grooming loops shall have a swivel. Grooming loops, tethers, or muzzles may be used only under constant direct human supervision.
5.	Classification and Separation. Only compatible animals of the same household and/or with written consent of the owner(s) may be caged together or otherwise commingled.
a.	There must be a minimum of one human supervisor (at least 16 years of age) present, at all times, who has immediate access to and is able to directly supervise and constantly view each enclosure or common area where dogs from different owners are commingled. Employees in the process of grooming other dogs are not considered acceptable supervisors to satisfy this requirement.
b.	Any pet animal exhibiting an aggressive behavior shall be housed individually.
c.	Females in season (estrus) shall not be housed in the same primary enclosure or common area with males.
6.	Grooming work areas, when in conjunction with veterinary facilities or other PACFA licensed facilities, shall be physically separated from primary enclosures, animal food storage or preparation areas, veterinary facilities, and isolation areas for sick animals.
7.	Pet animals may be washed or bathed only with products that are shampoos, designed and labeled to be used to bathe or shampoo animals. Any product not labeled for use on animals may be used to bathe or shampoo pet animals only with the written consent of the owner. Products such as dishwashing soaps or detergents may be used only by prescription from a licensed veterinarian.
8.	Veterinary Services. All pet animal grooming facilities shall have a working relationship with a veterinarian to provide timely veterinary care as appropriate for the illness or injury. The name and phone number of the veterinarian will be available to the inspector upon request.
D.	CLEANING
1.	All cages, benches, tables, tubs, etc. shall be sanitized after one animal ceases to occupy the space, before another occupies the same space.
2.	Equipment such as brushes, combs and clipper blades shall be sanitized between uses on different animals.
3.	The hair on the floor around each grooming station shall be removed after each animal. Common areas of the facility shall be kept in good repair and cleaned each business day.
4.	Towels used to dry pet animals shall be adequately laundered after each use or before they are used on another pet animal.
E.	WASTES
Hair and animal wastes and refuse shall be removed from the facility and disposed of at least weekly so as to minimize odors, disease hazards and vermin infestation.
F.	WATER
1.	Water shall be offered to animals remaining at the facility for more than 6 hours, and two times daily thereafter.
2.	Water shall be offered in disposable dishes that shall not be used again by another animal, or dishes that are cleaned and sanitized between each animal.
G.	DRYERS
1.	Any dryers when being used in front of a crate, as a crate dryer, as a room dryer, or as a bench dryer, and any and all other dryers must be equipped with a timer that will automatically shut off the dryer after 30 minutes, unless it is used as a hand-held dryer or a dryer directly attended by a person.
2.	When in use, portable cage dryers must not cover more than 20% of the total open area of the cage surface.
H.	PRESCRIPTION PRODUCTS
1.	The facility shall not use prescription dips for any purpose or other prescription products without a current treatment plan from a veterinarian. Nonprescription dips may be used with the owner's permission.
2.	Grooming facilities shall not administer tranquilizers, sedatives, etc. for the purpose of grooming.
I.	RECORDS
1.	An incident file shall be kept yearly, for a period of three years, within each facility on animals which pertains to:
a.	sustaining injury while at the facility requiring veterinary contact;
b.	severe illness;
c.	seizures;
d.	veterinary treatment plans;
e.	death; or
f.	escape.
In the event of either death or escape, the licensee shall contact the Commissioner within 72 hours.
2.	Availability. The above records shall be available to any inspector employed by the Colorado Department of Agriculture, Division of Animal Industry, at all reasonable times during business hours, or at other mutually agreeable times.
J.	TRANSPORTING PET ANIMALS
1.	Primary Enclosures - Enclosures to Transport Pet Animals.
a.	Temporary enclosures, such as compartments or transport cages, or crates, used to transport pet animals shall be secured, water resistant, well constructed of cleanable material, and designed to protect the health and ensure the safety of the animals. Such enclosures shall have ventilation to ensure the comfort and health of the pet animals at all times.
b.	Such enclosures shall be constructed or positioned in the vehicle in such manner that:
(1)	Each animal in the vehicle has access to sufficient air for normal breathing.
(2)	The openings of such enclosures are accessible at all times for emergency removal of the animals.
(3)	The animals are afforded protection from the elements.
(4)	The animal areas of the vehicle shall be heated or cooled when necessary to prevent hypothermia or hyperthermia of the animals being transported.
c.	Enclosures used to transport pet animals shall be large enough to ensure that each animal contained therein has sufficient space to turn, stand, and lie down. Animals which are not conditioned to each other may not be transported in the same primary enclosure.
d.	Animals shall not be placed in enclosures over other animals in transit unless such enclosure is fitted with a floor of a material which prevents animal excreta from entering lower enclosures.
e.	Enclosures used to transport pet animals shall be cleaned and sanitized between trips, or more often if necessary.
f.	Pet animals shall be removed from the vehicle a minimum of every 8 hours and allowed to urinate, defecate, and obtain exercise. The licensee shall document in writing, and keep on file while the dog is in transport, evidence of the exercise of these dogs.
2.	Food and Water. Food and water shall be consistent with the requirements of Subsection F above.
3.	Classification and Separation. The same requirements of Subsection C4 above apply.
4.	Vehicles.
a.	Vehicles used primarily in transporting pet animals shall be equipped to provide fresh or filtered air to all animals being transported without injurious drafts.
b.	The animal cargo space shall be so constructed and maintained as to minimize the ingress of exhaust from the vehicle's engine.
17.00	ANIMAL RESCUE FACILITY REGULATIONS
A.	FACILITIES STANDARDS
1.	Definition of Pet Animal Rescue: “Pet Animal Rescue” as used herein means any person who accepts pet animals for the purpose of finding permanent adoptive homes for animals and does not maintain a central facility for keeping animals, but rather uses a system of fostering in private homes, or boarding or keeping in licensed pet animal facilities. Any licensed pet animal facility fostering more than 15 rescue dogs or cats at any time and at any location shall be required to be licensed as an animal shelter and shall meet the requirements of an animal shelter as set forth in Chapter 18 of these rules and regulations.
2.	License Requirements.
a.	No person shall operate a pet animal rescue unless the person holds a valid license issued by the Commissioner pursuant to PACFA and Sections 2.00 and 3.00 of these rules and regulations. The twelve month license period shall commence the first working day of March and must be renewed on or before the first working day of March the following calendar year.
b.	Persons who do not accept or release pet animals in excess of the following limits per year shall not be required to hold a license as a pet animal rescue: the limits on transfers for hobby breeders as defined in PACFA § 35-80-102 or within the PACFA rules and regulations.
c.	Rescue agencies operating a mobile adoption unit must either be licensed themselves or choose sites licensed as pet animal dealerships.
3.	“Foster home” as used herein is a site at which, through a written agreement with a licensed rescue facility, provides care and/or rehabilitation for sick, injured, orphaned, juvenile or other pet animals which are otherwise the responsibility of the rescue facility. No more than 8 adult dogs or cats may be housed in any foster home at any time. A female dog with puppies under 8 weeks of age or a queen with kittens under 8 weeks of age will be considered as 1 adult.
4.	Structural Standards. Places in which rescue animals are kept shall:
a.	Meet the following standards:
(1)	Be constructed of building materials that will ensure a sound physical structure.
(2)	Be maintained in good repair.
(3)	Protect animals kept there from injury, restrict entry of other animals from outside the property and ensure containment of fostered pet animals within the property.
b.	Electric Power. Electric power shall be provided.
c.	Water. Potable water shall be provided for drinking purposes.
d.	Heating and Cooling. Housing for pet animals shall be sufficiently heated or cooled when necessary to protect animals from cold or heat to provide for their health. The ambient temperature shall be consistent with the requirements of the specific pet animals. Heating shall be deemed necessary when the inside temperature of the facility falls below 50 degrees for a period of 4 consecutive hours and cooling shall be deemed necessary when the temperature of the facility rises above 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
e.	Ventilation. Foster homes shall be adequately ventilated with fresh or filtered air to minimize drafts, odors, and moisture condensation, and to provide for the health and comfort of the animals at all times. Ventilation may be by either natural or mechanical means, such as windows, vents, fans, or air conditioning.
f.	Lighting. Natural or artificial lighting shall be provided to permit inspection and facilitate routine cleaning and the proper care and maintenance of the pet animals.
g.	Primary Enclosures. If primary enclosures are used, the cages, pens, crates, or kennels shall meet the following requirements:
(1)	Primary enclosures shall be structurally sound and maintained in good repair to protect the animals from injury, to contain them, and to keep predators out.
(2)	Cage/Kennel Floors. Floors of primary enclosures shall be constructed to prevent injury to the animals' feet. Floors may be wire provided that the wire is of adequate gauge to prevent sagging under the animals' weight and the mesh is small enough to prevent their feet from passing through.
(3)	Cleaning Requirements. All the surfaces of the primary enclosure shall be constructed of material that is water resistant and can be cleaned and sanitized.
(4)	Space Requirements. All primary enclosures shall allow each pet animal to turn around, exercise normal postural movements, and experience necessary socialization with cage mates, when applicable. Primary enclosures for pet animals shall be in accordance with the regulations set forth for each species or category respectively (e.g. dog breeder, cat breeder, bird breeder, small animal breeder), or as directed by the Commissioner.
h.	Sanitation.
(1)	Buildings and grounds shall be kept clean and free of accumulations of trash.
(2)	Animal wastes shall be removed from primary enclosures and exercise areas daily or more frequently, if necessary.
(3)	Pet animals shall be protected from exposure to water or chemical solution when used for cleaning primary enclosures. Primary enclosures shall be cleaned and sanitized as often as necessary to reduce disease hazards and odors; minimally, after one animal ceases to occupy the space, before another occupies the same space.
B.	OUTDOOR FACILITIES
Outdoor facilities for rescue animals shall be in accordance with the regulations set forth for each species or category respectively (e.g. dog breeder, cat breeder, bird breeders, small animal breeder), or as directed by the Commissioner.
C.	CARE OF PET ANIMALS
1.	Food and Water. Pet animals shall be fed consistent with the nutritional needs for the age and species, except when under special veterinary care.
a.	Animal food shall be of such nutritional value necessary to meet the normal daily nutritional needs of the animal.
b.	Perishable food shall be refrigerated.
c.	Animal food containers shall be kept clean and sanitary.
d.	Potable water shall be available to pet animals consistent with the species, except when under special veterinary care.
2.	Classification and Separation. Any pet animals housed in the same primary enclosure shall be maintained in compatible groups. Any pet animal exhibiting an aggressive behavior shall be housed individually.
3.	Veterinary Care. All rescue agencies shall have a working relationship with a veterinarian or veterinarians to provide timely treatment for injured or diseases animals. The name and phone number of the veterinarian(s) will be available to the inspector upon request.
a.	Pet animals shall be observed daily for signs of disease or injury by the fostering individual.
b.	Sick or injured animals must be provided with timely veterinary care or euthanatized humanely pursuant to PACFA § 35-80-102 (7).
D.	RECORD REQUIREMENTS
Rescue agencies shall keep records of all animals accepted by them for two years from the date of disposition.
1.	Each record shall contain the following:
a.	A physical description of the animal, including species and/or breed, color, sex, and age (when possible).
b.	Source of the animal, with the date of acquisition, and the name and address of the surrendering party.
c.	All records of medical treatment while the animal is in the custody of the rescue agency.
d.	Disposition of the animal, with the date of adoption, transfer of ownership, or euthanatization, and the name, address, and phone number of the adopting party.
e.	In the case of psittacine birds, the record shall include the band number or other identification approved by the Commissioner.
f.	Information shall include spay/neuter status upon adoption and amount of deposit, if required, that is retained by the shelter or rescue.
2.	Psittacosis Warning. Rescues selling or adopting psittacine birds shall furnish the buyer or adopter of each psittacine bird a special Psittacine Bird Sales Record prescribed by the Department, giving the business name of the rescue, the name, address and phone number of the person buying or adopting the bird, and the number, species and leg band identification number for each bird. Printed on this sales record shall be a warning to the buyer or adopter of a possible psittacosis hazard. This warning shall include a description of the disease signs in birds, symptoms in humans and the critical need for prompt medical diagnosis and treatment.
3.	All records shall be made available to the Commissioner at all reasonable times during business hours, or at other mutually agreeable times.
4.	Licensees shall maintain lists containing the current street address for each place or premise at which pet animals are kept or transferred.
5.	The animal rescue licensee shall report to the Commissioner on a yearly basis the number of dogs, cats and other pet animals that are accepted into the animal rescue or foster home(s). The animal rescue licensee shall also report to the Commissioner on a yearly basis the number of dogs, cats or other pet animals that are returned to the owner, adopted to new owners, transferred to other licensed facilities, euthanized or died while at the facility. The reports shall be submitted on forms supplied by the Commissioner.
6.	The animal rescue shall report to the Commissioner on a yearly basis both whether they spayed or neutered all dogs and cats prior to sale, transfer, or adoption and what the total dollar amount of deposits paid to the facility and the total dollar amount of unclaimed deposits were.
E.	SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS FOR PSITTACINE BIRDS
1.	Possession Restrictions.
a.	Authorized Bands. In accordance with PACFA, § 35-108-108 (1) (i), no person shall import or have in his possession for the purpose of selling, trading, giving or otherwise transferring any psittacine bird that has not been legally banded with a type of leg band authorized by the Commissioner applied during the prefeathered stage of development, and appropriate to the size and species of the bird. The Commissioner authorizes the following bands: a traceable seamless or seamed Colorado leg band, a United States Department of Agriculture Quarantine Station leg band, or a band approved by any state. Seamed or split leg bands may only be applied when ordered through the Commissioner.
b.	Leg Band Assignment. No licensed pet animal rescue shall use another licensee's registered leg band nor shall a licensee sell or transfer their registered leg band to another person.
c.	Application for Band. Application for a traceable seamed leg band must be made to the Commissioner. Necessary documentation to be provided includes all purchase, transfer, or breeding records, health certificates, or quarantine information.
d.	Leg Band Removal. A leg band that is causing injury to a bird may be removed provided the Department is notified. Upon sale, trade or other means of transfer the bird must be accompanied with a traceable leg band approved by the Commissioner.
e.	From time to time, the Commissioner may require other species of birds to be banded, in the Commissioner's discretion. In such event, the Commissioner shall provide written notification to any licensee affected by mailing to the last address provided by the licensee to the Commissioner.
F.	SALE OR TRANSFER
1.	Reasonable care shall be taken to release for sale, trade or adoption only those pet animals that are free of undisclosed disease, injury or abnormality.
2.	It is unlawful to sell, transfer or adopt dogs or cats under the age of 8 weeks, or guinea pigs, hamsters or rabbits under the age of 4 weeks.
3.	It shall be unlawful to sell, transfer or adopt cats less than two pounds of body weight. The facility shall have a scale available adequate to ensure compliance with this requirement.
4. 	Except as provided in § 35-80-106.4(3)(a), (b), (c) and (d), it shall be unlawful to sell, transfer, or adopt any dog or cat that is not already spayed or neutered prior to leaving the facility unless the prospective owner has paid a deposit to the facility and signed a written agreement with the facility to have the animal spayed or neutered. 
a.	The amount of the deposit is to be determined by the adopting shelter but shall not be less than $50. 
b.	The deposit may be reclaimed upon presentation of written correspondence from a licensed veterinarian that the animal has been spayed or neutered within 90 days of adoption, sale, or transfer. The facility may extend the 90 day requirement upon presentation of written correspondence from a licensed veterinarian stating that the life or health of the adopted pet may be jeopardized by sterilization. If the deposit is not reclaimed after 90 days, it becomes property of the adopting agency and will be deposited annually upon license renewal with the Colorado Pet Overpopulation Fund or a local dedicated spay and neuter fund. 
c. 	The written agreement to have the animals spayed or neutered will include: age, sex, species, breed, and general description of the animal; date of adoption and date by which the animal must be sterilized; adopting party’s name, address, phone number, and signature; and facility name, address, and phone number.
G.	INSPECTIONS
1.	The licensee shall inspect each of its foster homes at least once a year, with a record of those inspections kept at the address specified in the license application. The inspection form shall include the date and signature of the foster care provider and the signature of the person inspecting the foster care facility.
2.	The Commissioner may, upon request, have access to any part of a foster home in which fostered pet animals are kept.
18.00	ANIMAL SHELTER REGULATIONS
A.	DEFINITIONS AND ABBREVIATIONS
1.	“animal shelter” - a public or private facility which, minimally, houses animals for impoundment purposes; or a centralized private facility which accepts or houses more that 15 dogs or cats, or for other species except fish, more than the limits on transfers for hobby breeders as defined in PACFA § 35-80-102, or within the PACFA rules and regulations for any disposition including harboring. Foster home sites and mobile adoption sites may be utilized in the operation of the animal shelter.
2.	“foster home” - a site that, through a written agreement with a licensed shelter facility, provides care and/or rehabilitation for sick, injured, orphaned, juvenile or other pet animals which are otherwise the responsibility of the shelter. No more than 8 adult dogs or cats may be housed in any foster home at any time. A female dog with puppies under 8 weeks of age or a queen with kittens under 8 weeks of age will be considered as 1 adult.
3.	“mobile adoption” - a site other than the central shelter facility at which pet animals may be offered for adoption to the general public.
B.	FACILITY STANDARDS
In the event a public shelter is unable to comply with any of the facility standards due to lack of funding, the public shelter shall so inform the Commissioner in writing. The public shelter shall update this information annually.
1.	License Requirements:
No person shall operate an animal shelter unless that person holds a valid license issued by the Commissioner pursuant to PACFA and Sections 2.00 and 3.00 of these rules and regulations. The twelve month license period shall commence the first working day of March and must be renewed on or before the first working day of March the following calendar year.
2.	Structural Plan Evaluation:
a.	Plan Submission. Detailed plans and specifications shall be submitted to the Department whenever it is proposed to erect or extensively remodel any animal shelter, specifically any remodeling that requires a building permit and affects a minimum of 25% of the square footage of the existing facility. Plans pertaining to upgrades which are only electrical or plumbing in nature will not require a plan submission. Each animal shelter or person intending to become an animal shelter shall be responsible for submitting all plans and specifications. Plans shall be approved or disapproved by the Department, typically within 10 working days of submission. Approval of plans and specifications is necessary before construction can begin and final approval of the constructed facility is necessary before operation can start.
b.	Plan Specification Content Requirements. Final plans and specifications shall comply with these rules and regulations and shall include schedules describing the ventilation system, plumbing fixtures and floor, wall, and ceiling finishes. It is not necessary for plans and specifications to be professionally drawn, providing the plans are legible, drawn or sketched to consistent scale, with dimensions indicated, accurately depicting the intended construction or remodeling.
3.	Physical Facility Standards:
a.	Structural Standards
(1)	Be constructed of building materials that will ensure the facility is of a sound physical structure.
(2)	Be maintained in good repair.
(3)	Protect animals kept there from injury, ensure containment of pet animals within the pet animal facility, and restrict entry of other animals and humans from outside by either a building or a perimeter fence designed to be escape-proof.
b.	Interior Building Surfaces. Interior building surfaces of the pet animal areas, including walls, ceilings, and floors shall be constructed so as to be water resistant and capable of being readily cleaned and maintained.
c.	Electric Power. Electric power shall be provided.
d.	Water. Potable water shall be provided for drinking purposes, with a backflow prevention device installed on any threaded faucets where hoses may be attached for the purpose of cleaning the facility or on the main water serving the facility.
e.	Washrooms and Sinks. Readily accessible washrooms or sinks shall be provided, convenient to all work areas, to ensure maintenance of personal hygiene by animal caretakers. A sink in good repair shall be provided for washing and sanitizing equipment. A dishwasher which utilizes heat or chemical sanitizing solution may suffice. Single service soap and towel dispensers must be available at all hand washing sinks.
f.	Heating and Cooling. The pet animal facility and any animal enclosure shall be sufficiently heated or cooled when necessary to protect animals from cold or heat to provide for their health. The ambient temperature shall be consistent with the requirements of specific pet animals. Heating shall be deemed necessary when the inside ambient temperature of the facility falls below 50 degrees Fahrenheit for a period of 4 consecutive hours and cooling shall be deemed necessary when the temperature of the facility rises above 90 degrees Fahrenheit. The interior ambient temperature shall be consistent with the requirements of the specific species, the age of the animal, or that to which the animal is acclimated.
g.	Ventilation. Indoor housing of pet animals shall be adequately ventilated with fresh or filtered air to minimize odors and moisture and to provide for the health and comfort of the animal at all times. Means for ventilation can be mechanical or natural, providing odors are minimal and the temperature range set forth immediately above is maintained, within the requirements consistent with the species.
h.	Lighting. Uniformly distributed natural and/or artificial lighting shall be provided to permit routine inspections and to facilitate routine cleaning. While avoiding excessive illumination to any pet animal, each pet animal shall have light available for a minimum of 8 hours per day.
i.	Sewage Disposal. Sewage and waste from indoor facilities shall be disposed of by connection of drains to a sanitary sewer or other locally approved sewage disposal system. A method shall be provided to rapidly eliminate excess water from the facility floor.
j.	Grooming areas. Grooming work areas shall be physically separated from primary animal enclosures, animal food storage areas, and isolation areas. Grooming areas must otherwise meet the requirements for grooming facilities.
k.	Isolation Area. Except as set forth immediately below, there shall be an isolation area available for pet animals that are suspected of or are under treatment for a communicable disease and are not at a veterinary medical facility where the animals will be segregated from the rest of the pet animal population. This area shall have adequate ventilation, as described in Subsection B3g above. The minimum space requirements for primary enclosures for each species set forth in Subsection C below shall be used for the minimum space requirements for the isolation area.
Unless a specific exemption is obtained from the Commissioner, in all shelters which impound, adopt, sell or harbor dogs, cats, birds or small animals the isolation area shall be a separate room with separate exhaust ventilation (nonrecirculating) effective per the time table below. This isolation room shall have floor to ceiling walls.
C.	PET ANIMAL ENCLOSURE STANDARDS
1.	Definition:
Primary enclosures means any structure or device used to restrict an animal or animals to a limited amount of space, such as a building, room, pen, run, or cage.
2.	Structural requirements:
a.	General. Primary enclosures shall be structurally sound and maintained in good repair to protect animals from injury, to contain them, and to keep predators out. Primary enclosures shall be constructed such that they can be routinely maintained to allow animals to stay dry and clean and to provide convenient access to food and water. Primary enclosures for dogs and cats shall be in separate rooms, except for the isolation room.
b.	Cage/Run Floors. The floor of the primary enclosure shall be constructed to prevent injury to the animals' feet and legs.
(1)	Enclosures may have wire flooring provided that the wire is of adequate gauge to prevent sagging under the weight of the animals, and the mesh is small enough to prevent their feet from passing through. There shall also be a solid resting surface or surfaces which, in aggregate, are of adequate size to hold all occupants of the primary enclosure at the same time.
(2)	Floors in runs should slope to drain water out of runs and prevent puddling in the runs or walkways. The slope should be of 1/4 to 1/2 inch per linear foot.
c.	Walls Between Runs. Solid walls between runs should be at least 4 feet high. The walls shall prevent water and waste material from flowing from run to run and prevent nose-to-nose contact of animals between runs.
d.	All the surfaces of the primary enclosure must be constructed of a material that is water resistant and can be cleaned and sanitized.
e.	Drainage. Drainage from each run must prevent cross contamination of other runs from urine and feces.
f.	Space Requirements. All primary enclosures shall allow the pet animal to turn around and exercise normal postural movements without touching the sides of the cage. The following minimum space requirements shall be met:
(1)	Primary Enclosures for Dogs.
Minimum space requirements:
(a)	Each primary enclosure, in which a dog spends the majority of its day, shall have the following minimum requirements:
x-small dogs up to 10 inches high - 4.5 sq. ft.;
small dogs up to 16 inches high - 6.0 sq. ft.;
medium dogs up to 22 inches high - 9.0 sq. ft.;
large dogs up to 26 inches high - 12 sq. ft.;
extra large dogs up to 30 inches high - 16 sq. ft.;
giant breeds over 30 inches high - 18 sq. ft.
 (b)	Dogs housed for a period of time greater than five days shall be housed in enclosures with the following minimum requirements:
x-small dogs up to 10 inches high - 6.0 sq. ft.;
small dogs up to 16 inches high - 9.0 sq. ft.;
medium dogs up to 22 inches high - 12.0 sq. ft.;
large dogs up to 26 inches high - 16.0 sq. ft.;
extra large dogs up to 30 inches high - 20.0 sq. ft.;
giant breeds over 30 inches high - 24.0 sq. ft.
(c)	Dogs housed for a period of time greater than fourteen days shall be housed in enclosures with the following minimum requirements:
x-small dogs up to 10 inches high - 12.0 sq. ft.;
small dogs up to 16 inches high - 18.0 sq. ft.;
medium dogs up to 22 inches high - 24.0 sq. ft.;
large dogs up to 26 inches high - 32.0 sq. ft.;
extra large dogs up to 30 inches high - 40.0 sq. ft.;
giant breeds over 30 inches high - 48.0 sq. ft.
(d)	When primary enclosure sizes do not meet the above minimum requirements, the dog shall be provided an opportunity to exercise for a period not less than 20 minutes, twice daily. For dogs that require an opportunity to exercise, the licensee shall document in writing, and keep on file while the dog is in the facility, evidence of the exercise of these dogs.
In cases where dogs are of a fractious or aggressive nature and pose a hazard to shelter employees, the shelter supervisor(s) may waive the exercise requirement.
In cases where dogs are ill or injured and exercise may pose a health hazard, the shelter supervisor (s) may waive the exercise requirements.
The height shall be 1½ times the height of the dog at the shoulder with a maximum height required of 48 inches and a minimum height of 18 inches.
If more than one dog occupies these primary enclosures, space will be figured for the first dog, with each additional dog needing one-half of the minimum space required.
(e)	No more than 5 dogs over six months of age may be housed in any one common area at any one time.
(f)	If crates are used to house dogs, including weaned puppies, the minimum space requirements are as follows: Dogs, regardless of weight, will have a crate that is a minimum of the length of the dog from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail, plus 3 inches, shall allow a minimum clearance in height at the shoulder of 3 inches while the dog is standing and shall permit the dog to turn around and lay down. Crates of this size are not to be used for exercise areas. Crates of these minimum dimensions shall be used to house one dog only.
An exercise area or run is required for animals housed in a crate. Dogs housed in crates shall be provided an opportunity to exercise for a period not less than 20 minutes, twice daily. The licensee shall document in writing, and keep on file while the dog is in the facility, evidence of the exercise of these dogs.
(2)	Runs and Exercise Areas for Dogs.
Minimum space requirements:
(a)	Indoor/Outdoor runs that have the primary enclosure and the exercise area in combination shall for measuring purposes be considered one exercise run and shall be measured from the extreme inside to the extreme outside for length determination.
(b)	Outdoor or indoor runs used as primary enclosure and exercise area in combination shall be measured from one extreme end to the other extreme end for length. The same criteria will apply to free standing runs used for exercise areas only.
(c)	Bitches with puppies shall be provided a whelping box which is large enough for her to lie down on her side with her legs extended. The bitch shall have enough room to leave the whelping box.
(d)	In exigent circumstances, impoundment facilities may provide minimum space which allows each pet animal to turn around and exercise normal postural movements. These circumstances may not be of a routine nature and must be approved by the Commissioner.
(e)	Bitches in whelp shall be housed individually prior to whelping. No other dog(s) will be housed with a bitch with puppies.
(f)	Puppies under four months of age shall not be housed in the same primary enclosure with other dogs, unless under direct supervision.
(3)	CATS:
Weight (lbs)	Aggregate Area (sq. ft.)	
< 2 lbs	2.5	
2-6 lbs	3	
6-10 lbs	4	
> 10 but < 20 lbs	5	
(a)	Primary enclosures with mesh floors are not acceptable.
(b)	Minimum height shall be 21 inches.
(c)	Primary enclosures in cat impound areas shall have solid walls to minimize interaction and cross contamination between unrelated cats.
(d)	Litter boxes to contain feces and body fluids must be provided in sufficient number, of adequate size, and located so as to enable each cat in the enclosure to access same.
(e)	A queen or queen with litter shall not be housed in the same primary enclosure with other cats.
(f)	Kittens under four months of age shall not be housed with adult cats except a dam or foster dam.
(g)	Primary enclosures housing cats in colonies shall provide a minimum of 10 square feet of floor space per cat over 4 months of age. In addition, a solid resting surface or surfaces must be provided. The resting surface must be high enough so the cat can fit underneath and minimally provide 1.5 square feet of additional space per cat. Kittens over 6 weeks of age and under 4 months shall be provided 7.5 square feet of floor space with an additional square foot of resting surface space that is high enough for the kitten to get underneath. No more than 25 cats may be housed in the same primary enclosure.
(4)	RABBITS:
Aggregate Weight (lbs)	Area (sq. ft.)	
< 2 lbs	2.5	
2-4 lbs	4	
5-12 lbs	6	
> 10 but < 20 lbs	8	
(a)	The minimum height shall be 14 inches.
(b)	The floor of the rabbit’s primary enclosure shall be constructed of material that prevents pododermatitis (foot problems) and that can be adequately cleaned and sanitized.
(c)	Primary enclosures housing rabbits in colonies shall provide a minimum of 10 square feet of floor space per rabbit over 4 months of age. Rabbits over 6 weeks of age and under 4 months shall be provided 7.5 square feet of floor space. No more than 25 rabbits may be housed in the same primary enclosure.
(d)	A doe or doe with litter shall not be housed in the same primary enclosure with other rabbits.
(e)	Cedar shavings shall not be used in or around rabbit enclosures.
(f)	No aquariums shall be used to house, store, transfer, board or keep rabbits.
(5)	For animals other than those specified above, the primary enclosures shall be consistent with requirements set forth in the rules and regulations specific to that breed or species (e.g. bird breeder) or as directed by the Commissioner.
g.	Outdoor Facilities or Portions Thereof.
(1)	Shelter. Shelter must be provided for all pet animals housed in outdoor primary enclosures to allow the pet animals to remain warm and dry. Such shelter shall be a water resistant structure of suitable size to accommodate the animal(s) and allow retention of body heat and such shelter shall have a water resistant door covering or offset doorways to minimize drafts and be made of durable material with a solid floor raised off the ground. If the pet animal has a choice of immediate access to an interior portion of the facility, shelter need not be provided.
(2)	Shade. A shaded area will be provided to all pet animals housed in an outdoor primary enclosure for protection from the direct rays of the sun. The shaded area shall be proportional to the size of the pet animal and shall be positioned so that maximum shade protection is provided. If the pet animal has choice of immediate access to an interior portion of the facility, shade need not be provided as described.
(3)	Outdoor runs may be constructed of gravel, sand, soil, or of a solid material such as concrete. Gravel, sand or soil shall be sanitized by removing the soiled material and replacing it when the material is permeated with urine and/or fecal matter that is not removable without removing the material, when the surface is muddy, or when odors are present.
(4)	Outdoor facilities shall meet the requirements of this Section 18.00 C. Animals housed outdoors when the mean daily temperature is below 45 degrees Fahrenheit shall be so acclimated. Cats (unless acclimated) or sick, infirm, aged or very young pet animals shall not be housed outside when the mean daily temperature is below 45 degrees Fahrenheit.
h.	Tethering of pet animals is acceptable only when cleaning enclosures or when under constant direct human supervision.
Facilities that house Alaskan dog breeds or Alaskan breed crosses specifically for the purpose of pulling dog sleds may request the Commissioner in writing for a waiver of the prohibition against dog houses with chains (tethering) as a primary enclosure. Such a request for waiver shall be submitted annually with each application or reapplication for licensure. Granting such waiver is in the sole discretion of the Commissioner.
(1)	No female dogs in whelp or with puppies shall be tethered.
(2)	If dog houses with chains are used as primary enclosures for dogs kept outdoors, the chains used shall be so placed or attached that they cannot become entangled with the chains of other dogs and any other objects. Such chains should be a minimum of 6 feet and of a type commonly used for the size dog involved and shall be attached to the dog by means of a well-fitted, nontightening collar or harness. All tethering chains shall have a swivel.
(3)	If tethering is used, a fence perimeter shall surround the entire tethering area to protect the tethered dogs from predators, stray animals and humans.
3.	If an after hours night drop is provided, it shall meet the requirements of outdoor facilities. Night drop areas may not be used as primary enclosures and animals must be removed and placed in a primary enclosure each day.
D.	CARE AND FEEDING
1.	General Conditions.
a.	Cleaning of pet animal enclosures. Animal wastes shall be removed from primary enclosures daily or more frequently if necessary to prevent contamination of the pet animals and to reduce disease hazards and odors.
(1)	Occupied dog runs shall be cleaned and sanitized daily. Animal wastes shall be removed more often if necessary to prevent contamination of the pet animal and to reduce disease hazards and odors.
(2)	Occupied cat cages shall be cleaned and sanitized daily. Cross contamination during cleaning of cat isolation and impound areas shall be minimized by rinsing hands in a disinfectant solution between primary enclosures, minimizing direct contact between cats, minimizing handling of the cats, and taking precautions to prevent contaminating other cats.
(3)	Equipment for isolation rooms must be used exclusively in isolation rooms.
(4)	All other occupied pet animal enclosures shall be cleaned weekly, between animals, or more frequently if necessary.
b.	Other Cleaning. Food and water containers and all other utensils shall be cleaned and sanitized with the use of heat, chemical solution, or a dishwasher using hot water or chemical sanitizing solutions. Pet animal food and water dishes shall be cleaned and sanitized daily or more often if necessary to maintain sanitary conditions.
c.	Waste Disposal. Animal and food wastes, used bedding, debris and any other organic wastes shall be removed from the pet animal facility daily and shall be removed from the premises weekly.
d.	Premises Housekeeping. The building and grounds shall be kept clean, in good repair and free of trash. Weeds shall be mowed or cut down in enclosures where animals are kept or exercised.
e.	Pest Control. All shelters shall be free from infestation of vermin, insects or other pests. Food contaminated by rodents must be discarded.
f.	Supply Storage. Pet food must be kept in waterproof, closed containers or at least 4 inches off the floor. Opened bags of pet food shall be stored in waterproof, closed containers.
E.	CARE OF PET ANIMALS
1.	Food and water. Pet animals shall be fed a minimum of once daily, as appropriate for the species, and provided water consistent with the nutritional needs for the age and species, except when under special veterinary care.
a.	Animal food shall be served in containers and be of such nutritional value necessary to meet the normal daily nutritional needs for the condition and size of the animal.
b.	Perishable food shall be refrigerated.
c.	Animal food receptacles shall be safe, in sufficient number, of adequate size and located so as to enable each animal in the primary enclosures to be supplied with an adequate amount of food.
d.	Animal food and water containers shall be kept clean and sanitary.
e.	Potable water shall be available to pet animals in clean containers sufficient to prevent dehydration or heat prostration, consistent with the species, except when under special veterinary care.
f.	Food and water containers shall be accessible to the pet animal and located to minimize contamination by excreta.
g.	Disposable containers may be utilized if discarded after each use.
h.	Self waterers may be used if cleaned pursuant to Subsection D.
i.	The basic diet of birds in the facility shall be based upon the natural needs of each species. Food and potable water shall be made available to the birds at all times.
2.	Classification and Separation Requirements. Pet animals housed in the same primary enclosure shall be maintained in compatible groups with similar nutritional and environmental requirements.
a.	Pet animals exhibiting aggressive behavior shall be housed individually and in primary enclosures that prevent them from biting or injuring the public or other animals.
b.	Pet animals under quarantine or treatment for a suspected communicable disease shall be physically separated from other susceptible animals or the public to minimize dissemination of disease as set forth in Section 1.00 of these rules and regulations.
c.	Pet animals that have reached sexual maturity shall be kept in primary enclosures separate from the opposite sex unless they are spayed or neutered. Birds and reptiles shall be exempt from this separation.
3.	Dogs and cats shall be groomed to prevent severely matted hair and overgrown nails and so that they have freedom of movement and can perform normal bodily functions.
F.	VETERINARY CARE/DISEASE CONTROL
1.	Veterinary Services. All pet animal shelters which do not have a veterinarian on staff shall have a written agreement with a veterinarian for services and consultation regarding animal health needs, treatments and disease processes. A copy of such an agreement with nonstaff veterinarian (s) shall be kept on the premises. This agreement shall be updated each licensing period.
a.	Pet animals shall be observed daily for signs of injury or disease by the person in charge of the facility or by an employee working under his/her direct supervision. An animal suspected of having an infectious disease shall be placed in an isolation area until the condition is determined to be noninfectious.
b.	Sick or injured animals must be provided with timely veterinary care, as appropriate for the illness or injury, or euthanatized humanely under the supervision of the facility's attending veterinarian, as set forth in PACFA § 35-80-102(7).
c.	As to animals that die at the pet animal facility, the licensee may wish to refer to § 25-1-612, C.R.S., as amended, and any local ordinance or rules and regulations concerning proper disposal.
d.	Veterinary treatment records. Treatment records shall be kept on all pet animals (except fish and invertebrates) that receive any medications and/or immunizations used in the treatment or prevention of illness, or the treatment of injury, while in the care of the pet animal shelter. These records shall include the identification of the pet animal receiving medical treatment, the name of the medication and/or immunization used, the amount of medication used, and the time and date on which the medication and/or immunization was administered. These records shall be kept at the pet animal shelter facility for a period of 60 days after the transfer of the pet animal.
e.	Written disclosure of all treatments involving immunizations, medications, anthelmintics (dewormers) and all other treatments for parasites, administered 30 days prior to transfer, shall be provided to the adopter of dogs, cats and birds at the time of the adoption or transfer. A record detailing the product used, the dosage and the date administered shall be provided to the purchaser at the time of adoption or transfer.
2.	Disease Control Requirements
a.	Reporting of Zoonotic Diseases. Reporting requirements exist under § 25-1-662, C.R.S., as amended, as well as possibly other statues, rules and regulations.
b.	Cleanliness. Pet animals shall be protected from exposure to water and chemical solution when primary enclosures, cages, runs, or areas are being cleaned. All primary pet animal enclosures, cages, runs, isolation rooms or areas, etc., which contain pet animal(s) (except fish and amphibians) suspected or being treated for an infectious or transmissible disease shall be cleaned and sanitized each day. Fish and amphibian enclosures shall be cleaned and treated as appropriate for the species.
c.	Quarantine. Quarantine requirements exist under §§ 25-5-604 and 605, 25-4-709, and 35-50-110, C.R.S., as amended, and possibly other statutes, rules and regulations.
G.	SALE OR TRANSFER
1.	Reasonable care shall be taken to release for sale, trade or adoption only those pet animals that are free of undisclosed disease, injury or abnormality.
2.	It is unlawful to sell, transfer or adopt dogs or cats under the age of 8 weeks, or guinea pigs, hamsters or rabbits under the age of 4 weeks.
3.	It shall be unlawful to sell, transfer or adopt cats less than two pounds of body weight, unless a written waiver is provided by the shelter's veterinarian stating that the cat is of sufficient physical development and general health to be safely transferred. The facility shall have a scale available adequate to ensure compliance with this requirement.
4.	Except as provided in § 35-80-106.4(3)(a), (b), (c) and (d), it shall be unlawful to sell, transfer, or adopt any dog or cat that is not already spayed or neutered prior to leaving the facility unless the prospective owner has paid a deposit to the adopting shelter and signed a written agreement with the shelter to have the animal spayed or neutered.
a.	The amount of the deposit is to be determined by the adopting shelter but shall not be less than $50. 
b.	The deposit may be reclaimed upon presentation of written correspondence from a licensed veterinarian that the animal has been spayed or neutered within 90 days of adoption, sale, or transfer. The facility may extend the 90 day requirement upon presentation of written correspondence from a licensed veterinarian stating that the life or health of the adopted pet may be jeopardized by sterilization. If the deposit is not reclaimed after 90 days, it becomes property of the adopting agency and will be deposited annually upon license renewal with the Colorado Pet Overpopulation Fund or a local dedicated spay and neuter fund.
c. 	The written agreement will include: age, sex, species, breed, and general description of the animal; date of adoption and date by which the animal must be sterilized; adopting party’s name, address, phone number, and signature; and facility name, address, and phone number.
H.	MOBILE ADOPTIONS
A pet animal facility operating a mobile adoption site must be either licensed as a shelter, rescue, or as a pet animal dealership.
I.	SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS FOR PSITTACINE BIRDS
1.	Possession Restrictions.
a.	Authorized Bands. In accordance with PACFA, § 35-108-108(1) (i), no person shall import or have in his possession for the purpose of selling, trading, giving or otherwise transferring any psittacine bird that has not been legally banded with a type of leg band authorized by the Commissioner applied during the prefeathered stage of development, and appropriate to the size and species of the bird. The Commissioner authorizes the following bands: a traceable seamless or seamed Colorado leg band, a United States Department of Agriculture Quarantine Station leg band, or a band approved by any state. Seamed or split leg bands may only be applied when ordered through the Commissioner.
b.	Leg Band Assignment. No licensed pet animal shelter shall use another licensee's registered leg band nor shall a licensee sell or transfer their registered leg band to another person.
c.	Application for Band. Application for a traceable seamed leg band must be made to the Commissioner. Necessary documentation to be provided includes all purchase, transfer, or breeding records, health certificates, or quarantine information.
d.	Leg Band Removal. A leg band that is causing injury to a bird may be removed provided the Department is notified. Upon sale, trade, or other means of transfer the bird must be accompanied with a traceable leg band approved by the Commissioner.
e.	From time to time, the Commissioner may require other species of birds to be banded, in the Commissioner's discretion. In such event, the Commissioner shall provide written notification to any licensee affected by mailing to the last address provided by the licensee to the Commissioner.
J.	TRANSPORTATION WITHIN A VEHICLE
1.	Enclosures.
a.	Animals transported by a vehicle must be confined within the vehicle.
b.	Temporary enclosures, such as compartments, transport cages, or animal crates, used to transport animals shall be secured, water resistant, well constructed of cleanable material, and designed to protect the health and ensure the safety of the animals. Such enclosures shall have ventilation to ensure the comfort and health of the animals at all times.
c.	Such enclosures shall be constructed or positioned in the vehicle such that:
(1)	Each animal has access to sufficient air for normal breathing.
(2)	The openings of such enclosures are accessible at all times for emergency removal of the animals.
(3)	The animals are afforded protection from the elements.
(4)	The animal areas of the vehicle shall be heated or cooled when necessary to prevent hypothermia or hyperthermia of the animals being transported.
d.	Animals shall not be placed in enclosures over other animals in transit unless such enclosure is fitted with a floor of material which prevents animal excreta from entering lower enclosures.
e.	Enclosures shall be large enough so that each animal has space to turn around, stand and lie down.
(1)	Animals which are not conditioned to each other may not be transported in the same primary enclosure. Multiple species may not be transported in the same primary enclosure.
(2)	A nursing mother with her young may be transported in the same primary enclosure.
f.	Enclosures shall be cleaned and sanitized daily, or more often if necessary.
g.	Pet animals being transported must be offered water sufficient to prevent dehydration.
h.	Pet animals shall be removed from the vehicle a minimum of every 8 hours and allowed to urinate, defecate, and obtain food and exercise. The licensee shall document in writing and keep on file while the dog is in the care of the facility owner, evidence of the exercise of these dogs.
2.	Vehicles.
a.	Vehicles used primarily in the transportation of pet animals shall be equipped to provide fresh air to all animals being transported without injurious drafts.
b.	The animal cargo space shall be so constructed and maintained as to minimize the ingress of exhaust from the vehicle's engine.
K.	EUTHANASIA
Euthanasia shall be consistent with § 35-80-102(7) of PACFA.
L.	SURGERY AREAS
1.	Definitions:
a.	“surgery” - the act of incising living tissue; an operative procedure; and/or a room or facility where an operative procedure is done.
b.	“aseptic surgery” - surgery performed in ways or by means sufficiently free from microorganisms so that significant infection or suppuration do not occur.
c.	“major surgery” - any surgical intervention that penetrates and exposes the body cavity; any procedure that has the potential for producing permanent physical or physiological impairment; and/or any procedure associated with extensive transection or dissection of tissue.
2.	If a major surgery is conducted, the following shall be required:
a.	There shall be a separate room for aseptic surgical procedures only. The room must be a closed, single-purpose room for the performance of only aseptic surgical procedures.
b.	The room must be constructed and equipped such that cleanliness may be maintained.
c.	The floor, walls and ceilings must be washable and water resistant.
d.	Doors must be well-fitted and kept closed. Traffic shall be kept to a minimum.
M.	FOSTER HOME INSPECTIONS
1.	The licensee shall inspect each of its foster homes at least once a year, with a record of those inspections kept at the address specified in the license application. The inspection form shall include the date and signature of the foster care provider and the signature of the person inspecting the foster care facility.
2.	The Commissioner may, upon request or administrative search warrant, have access to any part of a foster home in which fostered pet animals are kept.
N.	RECORD REQUIREMENTS
1.	Records shall be kept for each pet animal impounded, accepted as an owner surrender or otherwise acquired. These records shall include the date acquired, description and identifying characteristics (if available), including species, breed, color, age, and sex, any background information, reason for impoundment, relinquishment, veterinary care, disposition of the animal, with the date of redemption, adoption, transfer of ownership, or euthanization, and the name, address, and phone number of the receiving person or entity. Each animal shall be identifiable through cage/run cards, identifying collars, leg bands or any other acceptable method of identification (if appropriate for the species). Records shall include information about spay/neuter status upon adoption and amount of deposit if required that is retained by the shelter or rescue.
2.	Foster Homes. If foster homes are used, records including the foster agent, address of the foster home and specific information (listed in #1 above) on animals fostered shall be kept for each foster home.
3.	Euthanasia Records. Records of each animal euthanatized shall be kept, including reference to animal euthanatized, method, and dosage as appropriate.
4.	Record Accessibility. All required records shall be made available to any inspector authorized by the Department at any reasonable time during regular business hours, or at other mutually agreeable times.
5.	Psittacosis Warning. Shelters selling or adopting psittacine birds shall furnish the buyer or adopter of each psittacine bird, a special Psittacine Bird Sales Record prescribed by the Department, giving the business name of the facility, the name, address and phone number of the person buying or adopting the bird, and number, species and leg band identification number for each bird. Printed on this sales record shall be a warning to the buyer/adopter of a possible psittacosis hazard. This warning shall include a description of the disease signs in birds, symptoms in humans and the critical need for prompt medical diagnosis and treatment.
6.	Veterinary Services. The staff veterinarian's license or copy of all written agreements with a licensed veterinarian(s) shall be available.
7.	The animal shelter licensee shall report to the Commissioner on a yearly basis the number of dogs, cats and other pet animals that are accepted into the animal shelter or foster home(s). The animal shelter licensee shall also report to the Commissioner on a yearly basis the number of dogs, cats or other pet animals that are returned to the owner, adopted to new owners, transferred to other licensed facilities, euthanized or died while at the facility. The reports shall be submitted on forms supplied by the Commissioner.
8.	The animal shelter shall report to the Commissioner on a yearly basis both whether they spayed or neutered all dogs and cats prior to sale, transfer or adoption and what the total dollar amount of deposits paid to the facility and the total dollar amount of unclaimed deposits were.
25.00	STATEMENTS OF BASIS, SPECIFIC STATUTORY AUTHORITY AND PURPOSE
L.	April 16, 2009 – Effective May 30, 2009
Statutory Authority
The amendments to these rules are proposed to the Commissioner of the Colorado Department of Agriculture (“Commissioner”) for his adoption pursuant to his authority as set forth in the Pet Animal Care and Facilities Act (“PACFA”), § 35-80-109(2)(a) and (b), C.R.S.
The purpose of the proposed rules is to:
1.	Rule 12.00, Dog Breeder Regulations
a.	Include specific requirements for grooming of dogs that are in the control of dog breeders to ensure the health and safety of breeding dogs; and 
b.	Include a requirement for maintenance records to assist with proper identification of all animals in a breeder’s facility.
2.	Rule 15.00, Grooming Regulations
a.	Reduce the age of a qualified supervisor who supervises and views dogs that are commingled with dogs from different owners; and 
b.	Clarify that persons actively engaged in grooming may not qualify as a supervisor for the purposes of the supervision requirements.
3.	Rule 17.00, Animal Rescue Facility Regulations
a.	Create record-keeping requirements for all animals that are spayed or neutered;
b.	Develop reporting requirements that the facility must meet on a yearly basis to the Commissioner of Agriculture; 
c.	Clarify and define new legislative requirements regarding mandatory spaying and neutering for shelters and rescues;
d.	Define how a facility is to deposit, retain, refund, or transfer to the Colorado Pet Overpopulation Fund or other dedicated spay and neuter fund all deposits made by adopting persons who receive a dog or cat without having it spayed prior to adoption; and
e.	Identify the elements required to be contained in a written agreement to spay or neuter when an adopting person receives a dog or cat without having it spayed or neutered prior to adoption.
4.	Rule 18.00, Animal Shelter
a.	Limit the number of adult dogs or cats that any shelter’s foster home may house at one time; and
b.	Simplify language regarding minimum space requirements for dogs’ primary enclosures with relation to length of time the dog is in the facility and the amount of daily exercise the dog receives;
c.	Clarify how and with what material a rabbit’s cage must be constructed to prevent the rabbit from developing foot problems;
d.	Include specific requirements for grooming of dogs that are in the control of an animal shelter to ensure the health and safety of the dogs; and
e.	Create record-keeping requirements for all animals that are spayed or neutered;
f.	Develop reporting requirements that the facility must meet on a yearly basis to the Commissioner of Agriculture; 
g.	Clarify and define the new legislative requirements regarding mandatory spaying and neutering for shelters and rescues;
h.	Define how a facility is to deposit, retain, refund, or transfer to the Colorado Pet Overpopulation Fund or other dedicated spay and neuter fund all deposits made by adopting persons who receive a dog or cat without having it spayed prior to adoption; and
i.	Identify the elements required to be contained in a written agreement to spay or neuter when an adopting person receives a dog or cat without having it spayed or neutered prior to adoption.
The factual and policy issues encountered when developing these rules include:
1.	During the 2008 legislative session, the Colorado Assembly revised PACFA’s statute to include § 35-80-106.4, C.R.S., which sets forth requirements for sterilization of ownerless dogs and cats. The statute, however, did not articulate what information was to be submitted in an agreement to spay or neuter or any reporting requirements to be made to the Commissioner of the Department of Agriculture. The changes to the rule with regard to spaying and neutering provide clarification and guidance to animal facilities and shelters with relation to the new spay and neuter laws.
2.	The inspectors for the program have had ongoing issues with dog breeders who fail to provide minimal grooming for dogs in their care. The inspectors are unable to enforce routine grooming recommendations until the dogs reach a point of suffering from medical conditions as a result of poor grooming practices. The intent of the change is to require that dogs be groomed routinely to prevent medical issues. 
3.	Inspectors have had difficulty identifying dogs kept in breeding facilities unless those dogs have been treated for a medical condition. The requirement to maintain records that provide minimal identification of the dogs at the facility will help inspectors determine the number of dogs on the property. This will ultimately help inspectors establish a baseline for care and welfare of all animals at the facility. These changes also make them consistent with existing regulations in the boarding and training facilities rules.
4.	Members of the shelter and rescue community requested a limit on the number of animals any one foster home may keep at any one time. Additionally, inspectors have found many foster homes take on more animals than they can adequately provide for. Foster care providers suggested that eight is a good number of animals that a foster home can reasonably care for. In 2008, PACFA took the suggestion of no more than eight animals for Animal Rescue facilities. Changing the language in Animal Shelter makes it consistent with previously adopted language in the Animal Rescue Facility Regulations.
5.	Changes to the requirements regarding flooring substrate for rabbits resulted because inspectors would like that individual facilities have flexibility when choosing appropriate flooring for the rabbits. Alternatives to wire flooring, which are more desirable and provide better protection for the rabbits, exist and should be an option for facility owners.
6.	The deletion of redundant language in the section regarding space requirements for dogs housed in animal shelters makes the rule easier to read and explain to facility owners. No fundamental change in the rule is made within these deletions.