Fraser Health pet protocol irks Chilliwack family
Credit to Author: Glenda Luymes| Date: Sun, 01 Mar 2020 01:10:01 +0000
A Chilliwack woman is questioning a Fraser Health protocol that requires her to lock up two dogs when home health support workers visit.
Two years ago, Cathy Currie’s 78-year-old mother moved in with her after being diagnosed with dementia. Gail Cross has owned dogs for much of her life, and Currie’s two dogs became her close companions, sleeping on her bed and accompanying her on walks around her new neighbourhood.
Cross receives two hours of respite care twice each week when a Fraser Health worker spends time with her. The family’s terriers, Buddy and Scooter, have never been a problem, and the workers often join Cross as she walks and visits with the dogs, said Currie.
But the family was surprised when they received a message from Fraser Health two weeks ago telling them Buddy and Scooter must be locked up or behind a closed door when workers visit.
“My dogs don’t understand. They have the run of their home. Someone can’t walk into our home and tell us to put them in a cage,” said Currie.
She said the two dogs can be noisy, but they are gentle. She has no concerns about letting her three-year-old granddaughter play with them.
Cathy Currie with her mother Gail Cross and the family’s two dogs, Buddy and Scooter. (Francis Georgian photo/PNG)
But a Fraser Health spokesperson said the health authority must comply with WorkSafeBC regulations regarding workplace safety. This includes identification and assessment of hazards, such as animals.
“While pets can be at home during times of care, we ask that they be in a separate room as to ensure the safety of staff and their ability to provide quality care,” said the spokesperson.
Currie said her mother was visibly upset by the Fraser Health directive and no longer wants the workers to visit, which makes it difficult for her family.
“I think (Fraser Health) should be looking at this with care and compassion,” she said. “It’s been proven that animals help the elderly and make them happier. To take that away is not fair.”
Currie said she’s been told the person who comes to help her mother on Tuesday won’t require her to lock up the dogs — “she’s fine with them.” But she remains concerned about the person who comes on Thursday, as well as other people with pets.
“What about everyone else impacted by this?” she said.
Fraser Health said it is committed to working with clients to find a solution that works for them and also ensures staff members are safe.
“If the family remains concerned, it is best for them to speak with their case manager,” said the spokesperson.
Gail Cross. Francis Georgian photo/PNG
Francis Georgian photo/PNG
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