2VAC5-150-80: Handling

Carriers and intermediate handlers, in moving companion animals to or from the primary conveyance and animal holding area of the terminal facility, shall:

1. Move the animals as expeditiously as possible;

2. Provide sufficient shade to protect animals from the direct rays of the sun and ensure that such animals shall not be subject to surrounding air temperatures which exceed 85°F for a period of more than 45 minutes, unless the well-being of the confined animal mandates temperature maintenance above this range;

3. Provide covered transporting devices to protect the animals when the outdoor air temperature falls below 50°F, and ensure that such animals shall not be subjected to surrounding air temperatures which fall below 45°F for a period of more than 45 minutes unless the animals are accompanied by a certificate of acclimation to lower temperatures signed by an accredited veterinarian not more than 10 days prior to shipment;

4. Provide shelter from precipitation sufficient to allow animals to remain dry;

5. Avoid handling of the primary enclosure in such a manner that may cause physical or emotional trauma to the animal contained therein; and

6. Not toss, drop or needlessly tilt primary enclosures nor stack them in a manner which may result in their falling.