When assessing whether you comply with HS209

Questions we are likely to ask

• What animals, if any, are at the service and where are they kept?
• What measures are in place to ensure safe and hygienic practices are followed after handling animals?
• How do you make sure educators can restrain the animals?

We are likely to look at, measure or count

• Look at any animals you have in the home.
• Look at the hygiene of animal habitats.

The tools below are here to support you, but you do not have to use them. You can use other tools or methods that work better for your service.

Caring for animals in the classroom – New Zealand Curriculum – Tāhūrangi

Illness guidelines for early childhood education services PDF 913KB

Safe and hygienic practices are essential when animals are present in homes to protect the health and wellbeing of children, adults and the animals themselves. These practices help prevent the spread of germs and disease, reduce the risk of injury, and ensure that interactions with animals are positive.

Doing more than the minimum can shape better outcomes for children. Here are some ideas or examples you might like to consider.

Safe ways to include animals in learning activities

You can develop a policy or clear procedures for managing animals at the home. They could include: 

• maintaining animal living conditions to a high standard of cleanliness
• storing animal food so that it is separated and clearly distinguishable from human food
• if a sight-impaired person has a guide dog, you must accommodate the dog respectfully and safely, ensuring it does not pose a risk to children or interfere with food areas
• depending on the type of animal, you may need a plan in place to manage unexpected situations, such as a child experiencing an allergic reaction
• it is useful for educators to be trained to recognise signs of distress or aggression in animals and know how to respond appropriately
• you may consider the needs of all children and families, including those with allergies, phobias, or disabilities  
• therapy animals may be certified by recognised organisations to confirm they are safe, well-trained, and suitable for interaction with children in an early learning environment. Certification helps ensure the animal’s behaviour, health, and temperament meet standards that support safe and positive experiences for children.

Caring for animals at the home 

Animals should be appropriately housed. This includes using leads, pens, or enclosures appropriate to the species. Consider shade, food, water access and noise levels.

You may consider having animals’ health status verified by a licensed veterinarian, including:

• up-to-date vaccinations
• free from communicable diseases
• appropriate temperament for an early learning setting.