LAKESIDE FAMILY PRACTICE SERVICE DOG POLICY

Lakeside Family Practice is committed to meeting our obligations under the Safety, Health and Welfare Work Act 2005, to protect the health and safety of all our patients and members of staff in Lakeside Family Practice.

This policy sets out the conditions under which animals may be permitted entry to our surgery.

This policy does not apply to animals used in the course of duty by Gardai or any other members of the Emergency Services.

REGISTERED SERVICE DOG

A Service Dog is defined under Irish Law as a highly trained dog that is specifically trained to assist a person with a disability. For a dog to be recognised as a Service Dog, it must be fully trained and registered with one of the following, or a UK or other international equivalent :

• Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind
• Dogs for the Disabled
• Austism Assistance Dogs Ireland
• International Guide Dog Federation

All trained and registered Service Dogs are welcome in our surgery in the company of their registered owner. Service Dog owners are expected to be able to provide sufficient documentary evidence that their dogs meet the above criteria.

In instances where the dog is not wearing an identifiable harness or branded lead, staff members may seek clarification that the animal is a trained Service Dog.

EMOTIONAL SUPPORT ANIMALS

Emotional Support Animals, including dogs, not accredited to one of the above organisations, are not legally recognised under Irish Law. As a result, they are currently not permitted to enter our surgery for health and safety reasons. If you have any questions please contact the Practice Manager by emailing [email protected] prior to your visit.