How do you maintain health and safety when handling animals?

Always

1. make sure handlers are competent and agile.
2. work out an escape route or refuge before working with cattle.
3. be careful around cows and heifers with new-born calves.
4. remember that cows that are ‘on heat’ are unpredictable.
5. try to keep cattle calm when handling them.
6. use a stick to assist in directing cattle.

How do you handle a dog safely?

Stay calm and relaxed. Be firm but not aggressive. Remember that even very good dogs may bite/resist if something is painful. Use a muzzle for painful procedures (unless the patient has head or neck trauma), muzzles should never be left on for more than 15 minutes without giving the dog a break.

What are the risks of handling a dog?

Potential Health and Safety Hazards When Working with Displaced Domestic Animals

• Animal Handling and Restraint Hazards.
• Animal Bites and Scratches.
• Rabies and Other Zoonoses.
• Sharps-Related Injuries.
• Heavy Lifting.
• Eye Hazards.
• Dermatologic Conditions.
• Animal Allergens.

What are the risks associated with handling and restraining dogs?

Hazards for persons using and handling laboratory animals may arise from a variety of sources, including viruses, bacteria, fungi, parasites, ionising and non-ionising radiation, hazardous substances, toxins, carcinogens, allergens, recombinant DNA techniques, anaesthetic gases and physical injuries.

What are the legal requirements for dog handlers?

There are a wide variety of legal requirements that handlers and their organisations should be aware of from health and safety through to animal welfare. It is essential that all staff dealing with dogs are aware of the relevant legislation in their country and keep up to date with any changes.

What are the risks of handling an animal?

Handling animals always involves a risk of injury or ill health. The risk is increased if the animals have not been handled frequently and are unsure of human contact. Certain tasks such as veterinary work may increase the risk further.

What should be included in guidance for handling dogs?

This document is split into three sections, each providing advice and issues to consider when dealing with dogs, the equipment to use, health and safety of the handler and the welfare of the dog. Part A sets out the main legal requirements and issues to consider when dealing with dogs. Part B sets out guidance on different types of equipment.

What should be the objective of a dog handler?

Whatever equipment is used the objective should be to catch/control the dog without harm to the handler, any members of the public or the dog and minimising any distress caused to the animal itself. Below is a useful diagram taken from the Association of Chief Police Officers National Decision Model which sets out many of the key considerations.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PNYM5lwaLmI