citation_inspection: 14269

The issue with unsealed wood continues with the three domestic dog-hybrids (three wolf-dog hybrid and two coyote-dog hybrids) that continue to be housed in a sheltered enclosure towards the bear enclosure. The sheltered portion of the primary enclosure housing these dogs is constructed of unsealed wood which is not impervious to water with support posts that have been chewed. The dirt floors under the sheltered portion of the enclosure do not have access to direct sunlight and can not be sanitized. Walls and flooring constructed of unsealed wood and dirt which are permeable to moisture provide an optimal area for bacterial and fungal growth both of which can cause disease in the dogs housed in these enclosures. Ultimately the failure to construct dog enclosures out of surfaces that are impervious to moisture results in an inability to properly clean and sanitize the primary enclosures and creates an increased risk of disease and illness. The new enclosures are still being scheduled for completion that will house all wolf-dog and wolf-coyote hybrids according to AWA standards and regulations. The licensee advised that the current enclosures will remain as is until the animals are moved to the new enclosures. Failure to follow through with the planned repairs or new buildings that meet the AWA standards and regulations will cause the animals to continue to be housed in a structure that is not impervious to moisture and can not be sanitized due to chewed wood or unsealed cement.