Georgian Bay General Hospital is dramatically changing its pet-visiting policy.
Starting this week, those hoping to bring Jasper, Lucky or Tigger into the facility to visit a patient will have to first fill out an application and then have a staff member assess the dog or cat’s demeanour.
“The updated policy ensures that pet visits align with infection control standards, patient safety and hospital regulations while continuing to support the emotional well-being of patients,” GBGH spokesman Derek Desroches tells MidlandToday.
When asked whether the change is related to an incident or complaint, Desroches says the update is a proactive step to establish clear guidelines for pet visitation consistent with the strict standards for infection control and public health expectations rather than a response to any single incident.
“The goal is to ensure consistency and safety for patients, visitors, staff and animals,” he says.
Desroches says the hospital fully understands the benefits having a patient’s pet visit can bring to that person’s mental health.
“The hospital recognizes the emotional and psychological benefits of pet visits,” Desroches explains. “That’s why the policy has been refined—to create a structured, safe way for patients to experience these benefits while maintaining hospital standards.”
In addition ot the policy change, Desroches says the hospital is in the process of offering routine pet therapy visits through local partners for those who currently don’t have pets.
For now, those hoping to bring their pet to visit a pet parent or grandparent must first fill out an application found here.
“The pet must be a dog or cat over one year of age, fully vaccinated and meet behaviour and health requirements,” Desroches says. “If an alternative type of animal is requested, it requires special approval.”
Approval to bring a pet into the facility will be granted by a supervisor or manager.
“While they are not trained in animal behaviour, they assess the application based on the outlined health, vaccination and temperament requirements,” Desroches says, noting timelines for approvals may vary, but will be processed as efficiently as possible.
“Patients and families are encouraged to apply in advance to avoid delays,” he adds.
And for those who might think the new policy creates another level of bureaucracy, Desroches says it’s more about ensuring patient safety, infection control and creating a structured approach to pet visits.
“By having clear guidelines, the hospital can continue to support pet visitation while minimizing potential risks,” he says.