Thank you for your interest in volunteering with our shelter! Volunteers are the backbone of our organization, helping us provide quality care to animals in need. Please review these terms and conditions for joining our volunteer program.
Eligibility and Commitment
Volunteers must be at least 16 years old, or 12-15 with adult supervision. You agree to commit to a minimum number of volunteer hours as specified in your orientation, maintaining a reliable schedule. All volunteers must complete required training sessions and pass a basic background check.
Training Requirements
You must complete our comprehensive orientation program and any role-specific training before beginning volunteer work. Additional training may be required for specialized roles such as medical support, behavioral work, or foster mentoring. You agree to follow all procedures and protocols as trained.
Safety Protocols
You agree to follow all safety guidelines, including proper use of protective equipment, animal handling protocols, and cleaning procedures. Report any injuries, accidents, or safety concerns immediately to staff. You understand that working with animals carries inherent risks and agree to follow all precautionary measures.
Confidentiality Agreement
You agree to maintain confidentiality regarding shelter operations, animal cases, adopter information, and any sensitive information you encounter while volunteering. This includes refraining from sharing detailed information on social media without explicit permission.
Professional Conduct
Maintain professional behavior while representing the shelter, including appropriate dress, language, and interactions with staff, other volunteers, and the public. Follow the chain of command for questions or concerns, and contribute to a positive, collaborative environment.
Time Tracking and Scheduling
Accurately record your volunteer hours using our designated system. Provide advance notice for schedule changes or absences. Extended absences must be communicated to the volunteer coordinator to maintain active volunteer status.
Animal Handling Guidelines
Only handle animals you are trained and approved to work with. Follow all specified handling protocols and animal behavior guidelines. Report any concerning behaviors or health issues to staff immediately. Do not make unauthorized decisions regarding animal care or placement.
Media and Likeness Rights
You consent to being photographed, filmed, or recorded while volunteering. These materials may be used for shelter promotion, training, or social media without compensation. Photography of shelter animals is permitted for shelter-approved purposes only. Follow social media guidelines when posting about the shelter or animals. All official shelter posts must be approved by management.
Equipment and Resource Use
Use shelter resources and equipment appropriately and only for intended purposes. Report any damage or maintenance needs promptly. Personal use of shelter facilities or resources is prohibited without explicit permission.
Conflict Resolution
Address any concerns or conflicts through appropriate channels, starting with the volunteer coordinator. Maintain professional conduct and be open to feedback and resolution strategies. Follow grievance procedures as outlined in volunteer handbook.
Representation and Authority
You may not speak on behalf of the shelter or make commitments without proper authorization. Direct media inquiries and official requests to appropriate staff members. Follow established protocols for community engagement and advocacy.
Termination Conditions
The shelter reserves the right to terminate volunteer status for violation of these terms, inappropriate behavior, or failure to meet commitments. You may also terminate your volunteer service with appropriate notice. Return any shelter property upon termination.
Liability Release
You acknowledge the risks involved in animal care and shelter work, releasing the shelter from liability for injuries or damages incurred during volunteer service, except where prohibited by law. Report any incidents promptly following established procedures.