Guide Animal Services

For the wellbeing of the service animal, we ask that patients and clients please have them clearly identified/recognized (e.g. identification card, harness, jacket). Also for the safely of the service animal, the owner is to be responsible for its complete care (i.e. feeding, cleaning issues), supervision and stewardship (i.e. is kept on an appropriate lead) while on the premises.

By law there are some areas within the Health Centre that are excluded to service animals including the main kitchen, sterilization areas, and the operating room. Also entry into areas with critically ill patients (i.e. Intensive Care Unit or isolation rooms) requires clearance by our Infection Control Department in advance and will be assessed on a case-by-case basis. Please speak to one of your health care providers or the Patient Care Manager in charge of your unit.

If for health and safety concerns (i.e. staff having severe allergies to animals) the service animal is not permitted in an area, other provisions will be made to ensure that you receive the support otherwise provided by the service animal (i.e. the assistance of staff as sighted guides).

Should the service animal need to be separated from you, the hospital staff will make a reasonable effort to assist you in finding an alternative care provider for the service animal. However, the Health Centre does not accept any liability for a service animal while on hospital premises.