- Kansas regulates how animal shelters can be run.cat image by Allyson Ricketts from Fotolia.com
Like many other states, Kansas has numerous laws governing how animals can be treated. These laws extend to pets, farm animals and any building or structure where animals are housed. The protection governing animals in shelters in Kansas can be found under numerous state statutes. - Anyone other than a veterinarian who wishes to operate an animal shelter in the state of Kansas must be properly licensed by the state. The Kansas Animal Health Department (KAHD) allows non-veterinarians to apply for a shelter license by filling out an Animal Pound or Shelter Application.
- Veterinarians in Kansas may also operate animal pounds or shelters. These professionals must be licensed by the state and pay yearly registration fees. Veterinarians must show they are a graduate of a school of veterinary medicine, pass the state veterinarian examination, pass the veterinarian legal practice examination, be of good moral character and pay the license fee.
- Each shelter in Kansas, whether run by a veterinarian or not, must comply with the construction and care requirements set by state law. These include that the shelter: is constructed of material that will provide for the establishment of a sound structure; is maintained in good repair; protects any animals housed there from injury; has water and electrical power; and has enough space to store provisions necessary to keep the facility operating. Additionally, temperatures must be maintained to protect animals inside from extreme temperatures, waste and bedding shall be removed on a reasonable basis and must comply with state, local and federal regulations on such materials, and pens must provide shade and enough room for the animal to have freedom of movement.
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