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<regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" citation="COMAR 15.01.11.06" title_num="15" subtitle_num="01" chapter_num="11" heading="Medical Standards.">
  <text>The responsible individual shall ensure that all animals are monitored, assessed, examined, and treated for medical conditions in a timely manner as follows:</text>
  <paragraph num="A.">
    <text>A veterinarian shall supervise the medical care and medical treatment of all animals in an animal shelter;</text>
  </paragraph>
  <paragraph num="B.">
    <text>Any surgeries shall be performed in accordance with the Maryland Veterinary Practice Act and in a facility currently licensed and registered by the State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners;</text>
  </paragraph>
  <paragraph num="C.">
    <text>Animal shelter staff shall observe animals daily for signs of illness or injury, and obtain treatment, as appropriate;</text>
  </paragraph>
  <paragraph num="D.">
    <text>Clean water shall be provided to all animals at all times unless otherwise directed by a veterinarian;</text>
  </paragraph>
  <paragraph num="E.">
    <text>All animals with parasites shall be treated immediately unless otherwise directed by a veterinarian;</text>
  </paragraph>
  <paragraph num="F.">
    <text>Any animal appearing to be experiencing pain, suffering distress, rapidly deteriorating health, life-threatening problems, or suspected zoonotic disease shall be assessed by a veterinarian as soon as possible or euthanized to prevent further distress or suffering;</text>
  </paragraph>
  <paragraph num="G.">
    <text>Any animal with a suspected zoonotic disease that does not appear to be experiencing pain, distress, or deteriorating health, but that poses a threat to human health and safety, shall be isolated by the shelter to limit exposure to other animals and people, and shall be assessed by a veterinarian immediately or as soon as possible;</text>
  </paragraph>
  <paragraph num="H.">
    <text>Any animal that is observed to be experiencing mental suffering, distress, or behavioral deterioration shall be assessed and appropriately treated by a veterinarian in a timely manner or humanely euthanized by the shelter;</text>
  </paragraph>
  <paragraph num="I.">
    <text>Animals that can be handled safely shall be provided with animal enrichment activities, whenever possible; and</text>
  </paragraph>
  <paragraph num="J.">
    <text>Animal food that is more than 6 months past the “sell by” date shall not be provided to an animal.</text>
  </paragraph>
</regulation>