VOLUNTEER >> Volunteer Position >> Dog Walking/Small Animal Socializing

VOLUNTEER ROLE DESCRIPTON

POSITION Dog Walking/Small Animal Socializing
SUPERVISION Volunteers involved in dog walking and small animal socialization will work with selected adoptions staff under the direction of the Adoptions Department Manager.
TASK Walking adoption dogs for exercise and socialization (outdoors, rain or shine), some grooming and play. Socialization/play (indoors) with selected cats and small animals (rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, mice, rats). Specific training is provided.
QUALIFICATIONS Must be at least 16 years old; in good physical condition with ability to lift at least 40 pounds; and be comfortable in handling large dogs
SCREENING All volunteers must complete the appropriate SPCA orientation, screening and training programs, including at least two personal references and a police criminal record check.
HOURS OF WORK Shifts are available seven days per week 10:00 am to 12:30 pm; 12:30 pm to 3:00 pm; 3:00 pm to 5:30 pm and 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm (in summer) on week days and Saturday and Sunday from 10:00am to 12:00 pm; 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm and 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm.
EVALUATION An evaluation interview will take place after the first six months of service and thereafter on an annual basis.

DOG WALKING/SMALL ANIMAL SOCIALIZING

GENERAL DUTIES

  • Walking dogs from Adoption Department ' walks usually take about 20 or 25 minutes with a 5 or 10-minute grooming and/or play period to follow.
  • Volunteers take each dog from its respective kennel and return same at the end of the walk. This sometimes involves lifting.
  • All outside walks are done 'on-leash' and adoption dogs are to be kept apart from other animals and away from the leash-free area.
  • Some grooming (brushing) and play with the dogs at the end of their walk is encouraged.
  • Grooming and play with selected cats (one per shift).
  • Socialization/play with selected rodents.
  • Dog walking shift usually includes three different dogs and then socialization/play with either a cat (one per shift) or other small animal.
  • Great care is taken to avoid transportation of disease between animals and all volunteers wash their hands and disinfect their leash after each walk or play session.
  • Stoop-n-scoop bags are available for dog walkers and all volunteers are asked to 'stoop-n-scoop' for any and all droppings encountered around the grounds.
  • Basic commands are used with our dogs such as 'sit' and 'off' in order to socialize them and familiarize them with basic obedience training. Adoptions staff will provide training in handling the dogs.
  • All 'nips and scratches' are to be reported immediately to staff.
  • A brief observation on each dog or cat is written by the volunteer following their session with each animal, in order to assist staff in assessing the animal's overall disposition, behaviour and needs.
  • 'Pre-Obedience' training is offered to volunteers who wish to assist in training our shelter dogs in leash respect, sit, stay, look at me, etc. Such training greatly assists in the adoption process. A well mannered dog has a much better chance at finding a forever home.