Volunteer Handbook - Kentucky Humane Society · The S.N.I.P. Clinic provides free surgeries to all...
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Volunteer Handbook Whitney Hobbs Volunteer Coordinator 2015 Edition
Transcript of Volunteer Handbook - Kentucky Humane Society · The S.N.I.P. Clinic provides free surgeries to all...
Volunteer Handbook
Whitney Hobbs
Volunteer Coordinator
2015 Edition
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2015 Edition
Table of Contents
Welcome ........................................................................................................................................................................ 3
About KHS ...................................................................................................................................................................... 4
What does KHS do? ....................................................................................................................................................... 5
Key Staff at KHS ............................................................................................................................................................. 7
Volunteering at KHS ....................................................................................................................................................... 8
Scheduling Your Volunteer Service ................................................................................................................................ 9
Code of Conduct .......................................................................................................................................................... 10
You are a KHS ambassador! .............................................................................................................................. 10
Non-KHS Volunteers/Pets ................................................................................................................................. 10
Privacy Policy & Conveying Correct Information .............................................................................................. 10
Dress Code ........................................................................................................................................................ 10
Parking .............................................................................................................................................................. 11
Smoking ............................................................................................................................................................ 11
Drugs and Alcohol ............................................................................................................................................. 11
Weapons ........................................................................................................................................................... 11
Cell Phones ....................................................................................................................................................... 11
Animal Care ...................................................................................................................................................... 11
Injuries .............................................................................................................................................................. 12
Concers and who to talk to…………………………………………………………………………………………………………….…………….12
Solicitation ........................................................................................................................................................ 12
Sexual Harassment ........................................................................................................................................... 12
Termination ...................................................................................................................................................... 12
Media Relations ................................................................................................................................................ 12
Authorized Areas .............................................................................................................................................. 12
Euthanasia ........................................................................................................................................................ 12
Disease Control ................................................................................................................................................. 13
Volunteer Jobs ...................................................................................................................................................................... 14
Volunteer Training ................................................................................................................................................................ 29
Community Support ............................................................................................................................................................. 30
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Welcome!
Welcome to the Kentucky Humane Society (KHS) Volunteer Program. Being a volunteer is extremely
rewarding, educational and fun. We rely on the generosity and compassion of our wonderful volunteers
and, without you; we would not be able to provide services to the many animals in need of shelter and
care. Your kindness and commitment enable us to continue our lifesaving mission.
KHS volunteer support ensures dogs get walked regularly and cats are more socialized. Animals get placed in foster homes when they are too young to go up for adoption, need to recuperate from injury or illness or just need a little more socialization. Most importantly, because of volunteers, many dog and cat lives are saved.
Thank You
Thank you for giving us your time and for giving the animals your attention! We appreciate your
commitment to help them and we know that your time is very valuable. Each of you may have different
reasons for wanting to be a volunteer, but all of you choose to volunteer at KHS because you support
the KHS Mission and want to help save the lives of animals in the community.
As a volunteer, you are a valuable asset to our organization and to the many animals in our community
that need our help. Our goal is to find a permanent and loving home for every adoptable companion
animal in our city. The time and energy that you contribute by volunteering helps us achieve this goal.
Since your support as a volunteer is extremely important, your decision to participate must be made
with the full understanding of the commitment and responsibility it demands. This handbook has been
prepared for you as a reference guide. It contains information regarding our policies and procedures,
tools for dealing with the public and how to safely handle animals in the shelter. Please read it carefully
to ensure you will be well equipped to answer questions knowledgeably and be able to provide quality
care to the animals in the shelter.
Thank you for giving your time and energy to the animals at KHS. We hope that the time you spend here
will be as rewarding for to you as it is beneficial to the animals you help.
Best Regards,
Whitney Hobbs
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About KHS The Kentucky Humane Society (KHS), located in Louisville, KY, is a private, nonprofit organization that is Kentucky's largest pet adoption agency and oldest animal welfare organization, founded in 1884.
Mission Statement KHS advocates the humane treatment of companion animals through leadership and proactive solutions to pet overpopulation, including adoptions, education and spay/neuter efforts.
Our Commitment The Kentucky Humane Society will never euthanize a pet due to lack of space. We are committed to saving every healthy, behaviorally sound pet we take in.
Our Vision
We envision a day when every adoptable pet in our community finds a permanent and loving home.
Our Life Saving Efforts In 2014 we saved 95% of the pets we took in. We saved every healthy, behaviorally sound pet under our care and found homes for 6,747 cats and dogs, making 2014 the biggest adoption year in our history. Our volunteers help make our success possible!
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What does KHS do?
Adoption KHS finds loving homes for more than 6,000 cats and dogs per year through its nine permanent adoption
sites in the Louisville area: the Main Campus in South Louisville, East Campus in Lyndon, and seven
adoption centers in Feeders Supply stores. All KHS pets are spayed or neutered, micro-chipped, de-
wormed, given a flea preventative, heartworm tested and are up-to-date on vaccinations.
Spay and Neuter Since opening in 2007, the S.N.I.P. Clinic has spayed or neutered more than 60,000 pets. This has helped lead to a decrease in the number of cats and dogs surrendered to city shelters. Our community has seen a more than 30% decrease in the number of pets admitted to local shelters since 2007.
At our S.N.I.P. Clinic (Spay/Neuter Incentive Program), more than 11,000 dogs and cats are spayed or neutered each year – helping reduce pet overpopulation and eliminate future animal suffering.
This high-quality, low-cost and donor-subsidized clinic offers financial aid for those who need it and free transportation in targeted areas. Last year the S.N.I.P. Clinic provided almost $12,000 in financial aid.
KHS offers surgeries for community, un-owned cats, also known as feral cats. KHS endorses the use of T-N-R (trap-neuter-return) to humanely keep cat populations in check. Community cats are brought to the S.N.I.P. Clinic in humane live traps, sterilized at the clinic and returned to their environment, where they live out their lives unable to add to the overpopulation problem.
The S.N.I.P. Clinic provides free surgeries to all pit bull terriers and pit bull mixes. Next to cats, this is the most at-risk pet population in our area, as there are simply not enough adopters for the number of available dogs.
Admissions
At KHS we believe in lifelong commitments to companion animals and work tirelessly to create and
maintain such a bond. However, we do understand that there are circumstances that prevent you from
being able to keep your animal, and we are here to help you through this difficult time.
Surrendering your pet to a sheltering agency should be considered a last resort. Please consider all available alternatives prior to contacting the KHS Admissions Office. This may include re-homing your animal with a friend, relative or neighbor. You have a number of choices, and surrendering your pet to KHS is just one of them.
Behavior KHS offers a variety of training opportunities designed to keep pets in their original homes and out of
shelters. All of KHS' behavior trainers are professionally trained and certified. We offer a wide-range of
classes from puppy and basic manners, to classes for dog-reactive dogs and shy dogs, canine sports
classes such as agility, and even group therapy sessions for special issues. KHS instructors use only
positive reinforcement techniques and classes are taught at several locations throughout Louisville.
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Education KHS has provided Humane Education programs to children in the Louisville community for more than 25
years. Each year children attend KHS' in-classroom programs or workshops, which teach responsible pet
ownership, and KHS' summer camp programs, where they care for shelter animals and learn about pet
ownership. Our Humane Education programs are designed to teach children to respect and properly
care for companion animals, preparing them to be the next generation of pet guardians.
Pet Resorts
The KHS Eastpoint and Fern Creek Pet Resorts offer safe, comfortable boarding for owned cats and dogs.
Pet owners can choose from a rustic setting with outdoor trails at our Fern Creek Pet Resort or luxury
lodging for pampered pets at our Eastpoint Pet Resort. All-breed grooming, á la carte activities and
Doggie Daycare are available at both locations. Not only do we keep pets safe, healthy and happy while
their owners are away, but all proceeds from the pet resorts support KHS' lifesaving mission, benefiting
less fortunate pets.
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Key Staff at KHS
Adoptions
Customer Care Manager: Angie Durgasingh- [email protected]
East Campus Supervisor: Courtney Strecker- [email protected]
Main Campus Supervisor: Jacquie Sanders- [email protected]
Kennel Manager: Mike McNutt- [email protected]
Admissions
Animal Care Manager: Kristin Seaman- [email protected]
Internal Placement and Behavior
Placement and Behavior Manager: Brandi King- [email protected]
Foster Coordinator: Kayla Saylor- [email protected]
External Behavior
Behavior Manager: Kat Rooks- [email protected]
Administration
Volunteer Coordinator: Whitney Hobbs- [email protected]
Outreach
Donor Relations Manager: Alisa Oerther- [email protected]
Community Outreach Manager: Valerie Merrifield- [email protected]
Community Relations Coordinator: Cassie Allison- [email protected]
Helpline Coordinator: Katy McClellan- [email protected]
S.N.I.P. Clinic
S.N.I.P. Office Coordinator: Holly Hood- [email protected]
S.N.I.P. Office Assistant: Christina Slone- [email protected]
S.N.I.P. Lead Vet Assistant: Lisa Downs- [email protected]
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Volunteering at KHS
What can you do at KHS? On the following pages you will see a variety of job descriptions. Review them and decide where you
think you will fit best based on your skills and interests.
We are looking for committed volunteers who can participate in volunteer activities at least once a month if possible. While not required, regular participation helps the animals at KHS and keeps you connected with the rest of the KHS team. If you can’t come in at regularly scheduled times, there are other ways you can volunteer for KHS. We always need help with special events, donation drives as well as making toys and treats for the animals. Be sure to check your email and the KHS website for upcoming events and opportunities to get involved at KHS.
Process to Volunteer at KHS:
1. Complete and return the Volunteer Application Email your completed application to [email protected] Please use the following email subject: Volunteer Application. We will be reaching out to you by email within one week of your submission.
If you prefer to mail the application please send to:
Whitney Hobbs Volunteer Coordinator 1000 Lyndon Lane Suite B Louisville, KY 40222
Parental consent is required for all volunteers under the age of 18. Junior Volunteers, ages 10-13, must be accompanied by an Adult Volunteer at all times when volunteering with KHS. Adult/Junior teams should complete 1 application. If a Junior Volunteer will be volunteering with an adult who is not a parent or legal guardian, a separate authorization form is required. Please contact me if you require this information.
2. Attend Volunteer Orientation and complete required training
Orientation sessions are limited in size, and you must receive an email confirmation prior to attending a session. Dates and times are listed on the KHS website Please keep in mind, volunteers that wish to volunteer at the Main Campus will be required to attend training at that location. Student Volunteers are required to attend a Student Orientation.
3. Commit to at least 2 hours of Volunteer service each month for a period of 6 consecutive
months. (Exceptions for Special Event and Foster Volunteers)
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Scheduling Your Service How to schedule your Volunteer service hours You can use the VolunteerSpot website to log in and schedule your volunteer service. You can also visit
the KHS website to sign up as well.
Closing times by locations Main campus: 241 Steedly Drive Adoptions: 11:00am-6:00pm Monday-Sunday Admissions: 8:00am-6:00pm Monday-Sunday East Campus: 1000 Lyndon Lane 10:00am-6:00pm Monday-Friday 10:00am-5:00pm Saturday-Sunday S.N.I.P. Clinic: 2445 Crittenden Drive 9:00am-5:00pm Monday-Friday
Closed Saturday-Sunday
Log your volunteer service hours Please log your volunteer hours on the sheets that are provided at each location. When you attend training, you will be shown where the sign-in sheets are located. Please write your name and how many hours you volunteered and circle the job you have completed that day.
Missing shifts Your support matters! The animals and the KHS team are counting on you. If you have signed up for a shift please make sure that you attend. If you are not able to make it please let the Volunteer Coordinator know and the message will be relayed to the shelter services staff.
Contact information It is important to keep your contact information up to date at all times. Therefore, volunteers should notify the Volunteer Coordinator of changes in address, phone number, email address or emergency contact in a timely manner.
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Code of Conduct
You are a KHS ambassador! Volunteers are representatives of KHS’ brand and image and should conduct themselves in a professional manner. Please be respectful in your interactions with the public and with staff. You may be asked to end your volunteer work as a result of any disrespectful or unprofessional behavior, harassment, threats, disparaging remarks, discrimination or vulgar language etc.. This applies to online and/or written material as well as personal interactions with staff, other volunteers, and members of the public.
Non-KHS Volunteers/Pets Adults and children who are not registered KHS Volunteers are not allowed to participate in volunteer activities. Pets are also not allowed while you are volunteering.
Privacy Policy & Conveying Correct Information Information pertaining to KHS records or specific adoption cases is strictly confidential and may not be discussed with others inside or outside KHS. Please refrain from offering the public information on fees of animals or specific policies unless you are sure you have current and accurate information. When you are unsure of something, please refer to the shelter services staff. Only KHS approved signage and messaging are allowed on premises and at KHS events. Please reference the Volunteer Agreement and Release Form for more information.
Dress Code Come prepared with the mindset that anything that you wear will get dirty! When working with animals you’re advised to cover as much skin as possible. As a KHS Volunteer, you are required to wear the following during each volunteer activity for KHS:
KHS Volunteer Name Tag- name tags are required at all times while volunteering for KHS. You will receive a nametag after you complete Volunteer Orientation and commit to volunteer with KHS on an on-going basis. You will be responsible for your nametag. If you misplace it, contact the Volunteer Coordinator to obtain a new one.
KHS Volunteer Shirt- If you join the Volunteer Membership program for just a $20 annual contribution you will receive a volunteer shirt that can be worn while at the shelter.
Volunteer Apron- if you are not a Volunteer Member, you must wear a volunteer apron at all times while in the shelter. Volunteer Members can wear an apron if desired.
Long Pants- are suggested when volunteering to prevent scratches from animals and to reduce exposure to transferable diseases.
Comfortable close-toed-shoes- should be worn. Sandals and flip-flops are not permitted while volunteering.
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Parking Main Campus:
Please park in the far area of the parking lot next to the house to allow guests the most
convenient access to the adoptions main lobby and our admission’s entrance.
East Campus:
Please park on the side of the building in the spaces near the dumpster, leaving the front spaces
for potential adopters and patients at Lyndon Animal Clinic. Additional parking is available in
Westport Village.
S.N.I.P. Clinic
Please park in the slanted parking spaces on the left side of the building in the Workers Union
lot to leave space for customers dropping off or picking up their pets. KHS has access to these
spaces.
Smoking All KHS facilities are non-smoking. Smoking is only permitted in designated outdoor areas and not
permitted while handling animals.. Contact the Volunteer Coordinator for smoking locations at all
facilities. . Smoking is also only allowed while on breaks outside of public view during off-site events.
Drugs and Alcohol Volunteers working at a KHS facility or off-site event should not be under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol. If suspected of being under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol, you will be asked to leave immediately and will be subject to termination from the KHS Volunteer Program.
Weapons KHS prohibits volunteers whether, or not they hold permits, from carrying deadly weapons on KHS property outside of the individuals’ privately owned vehicle. KHS reserves the right to see an individual’s permit who wishes to carry a concealed weapon in their private vehicle.
Cell Phones While you are volunteering, we want you to keep your focus on the animals in your care and the customers in need of assistance. Cell phone use while handling an animal or working with customers is prohibited If it is necessary for you to have your cell phone with you while volunteering, set the ringer to vibrate or silent, and use your cell phone in non-working areas only. While at off-site events as a KHS Volunteer, you may use your phone when on breaks and out of public view.
Animal Care It is expected that all KHS Volunteers will treat the animals in the shelter with care with compassion. Ask for assistance from KHS staff when needed, and use caution at all times. Please notify KHS staff of any observations or information you feel may need to be noted for an animal. Volunteers can not diagnose medical cases, remove sick animals from the shelter without permission from staff, or take any animals from the shelter without proper documentation and approval. Any volunteer doing so will be subject to termination.
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Injuries You are responsible for your own health and welfare while volunteering at KHS. Please be sure to follow all signs in the shelter and safety procedures discussed during training. If you are injured while at KHS, you must notify the Manager on duty immediately and fill out an Incident Report Form. KHS does not reimburse for medical costs from injuries sustained while volunteering.
Concerns and who to talk to Your point of contact regarding volunteering or shelter activities is the Volunteer Coordinator and questions and concerns should be reported to her. If you have a complaint regarding a staff member or have difficulties working with other volunteers, immediately bring it to the attention of the Volunteer Coordinator for resolution. We want to resolve issues to effectively work as a team.
Solicitation Solicitation on KHS property or while volunteering is prohibited. Solicitation includes selling
merchandise, selling raffle tickets or changes, or collecting funds of any kind that are not KHS related.
Sexual Harassment Sexual Harassment will not be tolerated at KHS. Volunteers should report an incident of sexual
harassment to the Volunteer Coordinator or Administration immediately. All efforts will be made to
maintain the privacy and confidentiality of any incidents reported and investigated.
Termination The Volunteer Coordinator will conduct a verbal warning for disregard of policies and procedures set
forth by a volunteer’s supervisor, but also reserves the right to terminate a volunteer’s service without
warning.
Media Relations Volunteers are prohibited from speaking on behalf of the Kentucky Humane Society to any representative of the media. All media questions are handled by our Director of Communications, Andrea Blair. She can be reached at [email protected] or 515-3158
Authorized Areas Volunteers are permitted to access the public areas of KHS at any time. Admittance is prohibited to restricted areas such as the admissions building; including but not limited to vet services and holding areas. Some volunteer activities may include access to restricted areas, but only for the described volunteer activity during the assigned time period only. At no time are any volunteers to walk through or spend time in unauthorized areas, unless they are escorted at all times by a KHS staff member.
Euthanasia Euthanasia is always the last resort and is an option only after every attempt to provide medical treatment, behavioral help or transfer to another rescue organization has been exhausted. Each decision is made carefully using criteria outlined by national standards within the humane industry.
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KHS does not place pets who are too ill, too dangerous or too behaviorally unsound to be adopted. We offer low-cost euthanasia services to pet owners facing end-of-life decisions for their aged and terminally ill pets.
Disease Control As a KHS Volunteer, you must be sure to wash your hands frequently as well as clean all animal handling equipment thoroughly to prevent the spread of disease in the shelter.
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Volunteer Jobs
Administrative
Clerical Assistant at S.N.I.P.
Donation Bank (Belly Bank) Community Outreach
Special Events Ambassador
Pet Photography
Pet Helpline
Working Cat Program
Pet Care, Training & Socialization
Canine Coach
Kitty Comfort
Puppy Pals
Restful Readers
Foster Care Parent
Transport
Veterinary Services (The Beach) at S.N.I.P.
External Behavior Assistant
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Clerical Assistant
Clerical Assistants at S.N.I.P. are a critical part of the KHS team. They insure the smooth, seamless
operation of the office by keeping clutter to a minimum with keeping paperwork filed and admissions
paperwork ready for the next day’s patients. They also play a key role in scheduling appointments as
our call volume is very heavy. By helping to keep the calls answered they help keep our schedule full.
Key Responsibilities
1. Filing medical records
2. Data Entry
3. Customer assistance
4. Preparing admissions paperwork and tags
5. Answering phone
6. Helping with Neuter-A-Thon
Qualifications 1. Volunteers must attend Volunteer Orientation 2. Volunteers must be 18 years of age or older
Location S.N.I.P. Clinic office on 2445 Crittenden Drive Time Commitment The S.N.I.P. Clinic is open Monday-Friday. Your hours will vary based on an arranged volunteer schedule. A once a week commitment is preferred. Instructions to Begin After attending Volunteer Orientation, volunteers will receive an email from the S.N.I.P. Office
Coordinator to schedule training. Volunteers begin with a tour of the facility followed by 2 hour
shadowing period to insure a good fit. If the volunteer is comfortable, we begin with light training (how
to file, create admissions tags and prep clipboards). You will learn about data entry next and then move
to answering phones and scheduling appointments.
Contact Information 1. KHS S.N.I.P Office Coordinator: Holly Hood- [email protected] 2. KHS S.N.I.P. Office Assistant: Christina Slone- [email protected] 3. KHS Volunteer Coordinator: Whitney Hobbs – [email protected]
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Donation Bank (Belly Bank) Volunteers will place the Donation Bank “Belly Bank” in area businesses for customers to deposit change into. The volunteer will then collect the money at the end of each month and report the earnings back to KHS. Key Responsibilities
1. Volunteers will decide on a location for the Donation Bank and will contact owner/manager to discuss possible placement
2. Volunteers will collect and count the money once a month and will need to bring it to KHS
Qualifications 1. Volunteers must attend Volunteer Orientation
Location Location varies based on the location of the Donation Bank Time Commitment Empty all assigned banks at least once per month Instructions to Begin After attending Volunteer Orientation, volunteers will be placed on the Donation Bank list. Volunteers will contact the Development Manager if they know of an area business that would be a good location for the Donation Bank. The volunteer will place the bank in the business and pick up once a month. Contact Information
1. KHS Community Relations Coordinator: Cassie Allison- [email protected] 2. KHS Volunteer Coordinator: Whitney Hobbs – [email protected]
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Special Events Ambassador Special Events Ambassadors provide assistance with executing special KHS events. Our signature, annual events are: Waggin’ Trail, Tuxes & Tails and Picture Your Pets with Santa.
Key Responsibilities 1. Volunteers will assist KHS staff during the events
Qualifications
1. The required age of the volunteer depends on the event
Location Varies in location based on location of special events
Time Commitment Varies based on the event Instructions to Begin Follow instructions and fill out application online. The Volunteer Coordinator will contact volunteers via email when there is an event coming up. Contact Information 1. KHS Volunteer Coordinator: Whitney Hobbs – [email protected]
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Pet Photography
The goal of the Pet Photography program is to increase adoptions through high-quality photos of our
adoptable furry friends on the KHS website. Our ability to photograph and show the beauty and
personality of each pet greatly increases the chances of our furry friends getting adopted.
Key Responsibilities 1. Photographers: Digital SLR photography experience is preferred, and Photoshop experience
and/or experience photographing animals is a plus! A digital camera, lighting, and all props are
provided!
2. Photography Assistants: No photography experience is necessary. Assistants retrieve and
transport pets onsite to the pet photography studio and assist with photography.
3. Student Photography Assistants: No photography experience is necessary. Student Assistants
ages 14-17 are restricted to handling only puppies and kittens. They are not allowed to handle
our adult dogs or adult cats.
Qualifications 1. Volunteers must attend Volunteer Orientation 2. Volunteers must attend Canine Coach Training 3. Volunteers must attend Photography Training 4. Volunteers must be at least 14 years of age
Location
Main Campus (241 Steedly Drive) Before
Time Commitment Volunteers will be asked to work a scheduled 2 or 2 ½ hour shift. All shifts are on the website. Instructions to Begin After Attending Volunteer Orientation and Canine Coach training, volunteers will be contacted by the Pet Photography Coordinator to set up training. Volunteers will sign up for a shift via the website.
Contact Information
1. Pet Photography Coordinator: Gordi Smith- [email protected]
2. KHS Volunteer Coordinator: Whitney Hobbs – [email protected]
After
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Pet Helpline The Pet Behavior Helpline is an answering machine based hot line for people to call in and receive answers to questions they have regarding their pet. Everything from behavior, to pet food help to surrendering an animal. Key Responsibilities
1. Volunteers will answer calls assigned by the Helpline Coordinator from the public 2. Walk the caller through possible solutions to their problem
Qualifications
1. Volunteers must attend Volunteer Orientation 2. Volunteers must attend Helpline Orientation 3. Volunteers must be 18 years of age or older 4. Volunteers must attend 2 training sessions with Helpline Coordinator
Location Once training is complete you will work from home Time Commitment Minimum of 1 hour a week Instructions to Begin After attend ding Volunteer Orientation, volunteers will attend the Helpline Orientation. After that volunteers will attend two in-office training sessions with the Helpline Coordinator. Then volunteers can start to work from home. Contact Information
1. KHS Helpline Coordinator: Katy McClellan- [email protected] 2. KHS Volunteer Coordinator: Whitney Hobbs – [email protected]
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Working Cat The Working Cat program places cats that are not considered adoptable by traditional standards into good outdoor homes. Cats entered into this program have identified behavioral issues such as litter-box avoidance or aggression.
Key Responsibilities
1. Placement of the cats involves delivering the cats and all the necessary equipment to their new home. KHS delivers the cats to within a 50 mile radius of Louisville. Placement also involves completion of adoption paperwork with the new owner and a walk through of the re-homing instructions.
2. Equipment pickup involves the pickup of all supplies used in the placement process and returning those supplies to the Main Campus (Steedly Drive) once the re-homing process is complete. Volunteers should also check on the cat’s status and follow up with the adopter. Once the equipment is returned to KHS it must be dropped off in the appropriate cleaning areas. KHS staff must be notified that the equipment has been returned and needs to be cleaned.
Qualifications 1. Volunteers must attend the Volunteer Orientation 2. Be able to lift and load heavy equipment (up to 40 lbs) 3. Have a vehicle large enough to accommodate re-homing equipment (4’ by 3’ wire crate, litter-
box and litter, bedding and two cat carriers) 4. Placement Volunteer must have experience handling semi-feral and feral cats. Some of our
working cats can be quite fractious and volunteers must have acceptable cat handling skills to avoid begin bitten or scratched
5. Volunteers must be 18 years of age of older
Location Volunteers must be willing to travel up to 100 miles round trip per placement or pickup. Most travel is to rural areas within Kentucky/Southern Indiana. Time Commitment Volunteers can expect to commit 4-5 hours on each scheduled placement and/or pickup. (Time is dependent upon how far away the placement is scheduled). Instructions to Begin After attending Volunteer Orientation, volunteers will receive an email from the Working Cat Coordinator. Volunteers will begin training with the Working Cat Coordinator for at least two placements and equipment pickups before handling tasks independently. Contact Information
1. KHS Working Cat Coordinator: Tammy Siers- [email protected] 2. KHS Volunteer Coordinator: Whitney Hobbs – [email protected]
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Canine Coach
Volunteers will help to ensure that each dog on the adoption floor is exercised and socialized each day.
Since dogs are social animals that thrive when given appropriate interaction, this program is vital to the
overall and mental health of each animal as they await a forever home. Walking dogs helps them to
stay calm, relaxed and friendly during their time at KHS.
Key Responsibilities 1. Walking, exercising and playing with adult dogs on the adoption floor 2. Providing enrichment items to each dog 3. Promote socialization of dogs with people 4. Spot cleaning kennels as needed 5. Refilling water bowls as needed 6. Dressing the dogs with a bandana 7. Teaching basic commands such as sit and down using positive reinforcement training 8. Showing dogs on the adoption floor to customers
Qualifications
1. Volunteers must have attended Volunteer Orientation.
2. Volunteers must have attended Canine Coach Training
3. Volunteers must be 18 years of age or older. Location Main Campus (241 Steedly Drive) and East Campus (1000 Lyndon Lane) Time Commitment
1-4 hour sessions are available Instructions to Begin After attending Volunteer Orientation, volunteers will attend Canine Coach training with the Placement Behavior Manager. We also recommend; but do not require, that Volunteers shadow a current Canine Coach. Contact Information
1. KHS Placement Behavior Manager: Brandi King- [email protected] 2. KHS Volunteer Coordinator: Whitney Hobbs – [email protected]
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Kitty Comfort
Volunteers are vital in increasing adoptability of cats in the shelter environment by providing necessary
enrichment, exercise and interaction. Interactions with people help to socialize and encourage friendly
behavior. The interaction increases adoptability which is the overall goal!
Key Responsibilities 1. Providing enrichment items to the cats on the adoption floor
2. Provide socialization, exercise, and training to cats on the adoption floor
3. Spot cleaning kennels and cat colonies as needed
4. Cleaning litter boxes in kennels and cat colonies 5. Refilling water bowls as needed
Qualifications 1. Volunteers must attend Volunteer Orientation 2. Volunteers must attend Kitty Comfort Training
Location Main Campus (241 Steedly Drive) and East Campus (1000 Lyndon Lane) Time Commitment 30 minute- 2 hour sessions available Instructions to Begin After attending Volunteer Orientation, volunteers will attend Kitty Comfort training with the Placement Behavior Manager. Contact Information
1. KHS Placement Behavior Manager: Brandi King- [email protected] 2. KHS Volunteer Coordinator: Whitney Hobbs – [email protected]
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Puppy Pals Volunteers will help to ensure that every puppy is exercised and socialized each day. Puppies need lots
of attention and handling in order to get them off to a good start in their new homes.
Key Responsibilities 1. Socializing, handling, and playing with puppies in the puppy room
2. Providing enrichment items to the puppies
3. Spot cleaning kennels and changing bedding as needed
4. Refilling water bowls as needed
5. Dressing the puppies with a bandana
6. Bathing and grooming puppies when needed
Qualifications 1. Volunteers must attend Volunteer Orientation 2. Volunteers must attend Puppy Pals Training
Location Main Campus (241 Steedly Drive) and East Campus (1000 Lyndon Lane) Time Commitment 1-4 hour sessions available Instructions to Begin After attending Volunteer Orientation, volunteers will attend Puppy Pals training with the Placement Behavior Manager. Contact Information
1. KHS Placement Behavior Manager: Brandi King- [email protected] 2. KHS Volunteer Coordinator: Whitney Hobbs – [email protected]
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Restful Readers
Restful Readers teach pets to be calm and quiet in the shelter when adopters approach their living
spaces. Adopters often choose a calm dog over a rowdy dog who is jumping on the kennel doors, so
Restful Readers are a vital part of the training process. Cats enjoy this form of interaction and it tends to
keep them from becoming over-stimulated which can occur when being brushed or petted. This
program provides a rewarding opportunity for people who aren’t able or ready to walk large dogs or
may prefer the company of cats.
Key Responsibilities 1. Providing enrichment items to each animal on the adoption
floor
2. Promote socialization of dogs with people
3. Promote calm, quiet kennel behavior presentation
Qualifications 1. Volunteers must attend Volunteer Orientation 2. Volunteers must attend Canine Coach Training (if over 18) 3. Volunteers must attend Kitty Comfort Training
Location Main Campus (241 Steedly Drive) Time Commitment 1-2 hour sessions available Instructions to Begin After attending Volunteer Orientation, volunteers will attend Kitty Comfort, and/or Canine Coach training with the Placement Behavior Manager. Contact Information
1. KHS Placement Behavior Manager: Brandi King- [email protected] 2. KHS Volunteer Coordinator: Whitney Hobbs – [email protected]
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Foster Care Parent The Foster Program at KHS is used to extend our shelter walls and provide specialized care to animals in need. There are several different types of foster opportunities. These range from caring for orphaned neonates to injured or ill adults. By offering your safe, warm, and loving care, you are helping an animal in need on its journey home. Key Responsibilities
1. Behavior foster: This foster category is used to help those animals with minor “personality
flaws.” You will be provided with information and undergo special training to safely, effectively,
and quickly manage behaviors in the comfort of your own home.
2. Healing Homes: This foster category is used to help those animals in need of minor medical care
prior to adoption. Once released by our in house veterinarian, you will be provided with
instructions in order to facilitate the healing process for an animal in need. Examples are
surgery recovery, demodex mange treatment, heart worm positive, cage rest, etc. You may be
required to administer medications.
3. Stork squad: This foster category is used to help those animals in need of time to grow before
surgery and adoption. We will provide the supplies that you need to help these little ones grow
and develop into strong adolescents who are ready for a new home. We receive mothers and
babies, bottle babies less than 5 weeks old, and little ones who are eating on their own but are
not old enough for surgery. This category is our absolute greatest need every year.
Qualifications 1. Volunteers must attend Volunteer Orientation 2. Volunteers must attend Foster Orientation 3. Volunteers must be 18 years of age or older
Location Volunteers will take animals into their home for a specified amount of time. Time Commitment 2-8 weeks (varies depending on foster animal) Instructions to Begin Fill out the Foster Application and attend Foster Orientation. Volunteers will be placed on the foster list and emailed when we are looking for foster parents. Contact Information
1. KHS Foster Coordinator: Kayla Saylor- [email protected] 2. KHS Volunteer Coordinator: Whitney Hobbs – [email protected]
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Transport
Volunteer transporters will use their personal vehicles to transport animals to and from the shelter for
adoption/rescue.
Key Responsibilities 1. Drive animals to and/or from the shelter for rescue or adoption. Some animals will be coming
to KHS from other organizations for adoption. Others are leaving KHS to go to another rescue group for various reasons.
Qualifications
1. Volunteers must have attended the Volunteer Orientation 2. Volunteers must fill out the Transport Application 3. Volunteers must be 18 years of age or older 4. Volunteers must have a valid driver’s license 5. Volunteers must have their own reliable vehicle
Location The location will vary depending on needs (can be all over the country) Time Commitment The time will vary depending on the distance of travel Instructions to Begin After attending Volunteer Orientation, volunteers will need to fill out the Transport Application. Volunteers will receive a welcome letter from the Animal Care Manager and will be added to the transport list. Once on the list, volunteers will receive an email when we are in need of transport volunteers. Instructions and details will vary depending on the needs of the transport. Contact Information
1. KHS Animal Care Manager: Kristin Seaman- [email protected] 2. KHS Placement Behavior Manager: Brandi King- [email protected] 3. KHS Volunteer Coordinator: Whitney Hobbs – [email protected]
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Veterinary Services (The Beach) at S.N.I.P The S.N.I.P. Clinic relies on the Beach Volunteers to help with the monitoring of dogs and cats after their spay/neuter surgery. The volunteers also assist with the end of the day clean up and preparation for the next day of surgeries. Key Responsibilities
1. Oversee the recovery of canine/feline patients 2. Carrying canine/feline patients to their correct kennels 3. Cleaning of surgery materials 4. Preparing surgical supplies; opening syringes, mixing and pulling up vaccines
Qualifications
1. Volunteers must attend Volunteer Orientation 2. Volunteers must attend training by S.N.I.P. Clinic Lead Vet Assistant 3. Volunteers must be able to bend, stoop and stand for long periods of time as well as lift heavy
canines 4. Volunteers must be 18 years of age or older
Location S.N.I.P. Clinic- 2445 Crittenden Drive Time Commitment At least one shift per week AM Shift: 9:00am-1:00pm PM Shift: 1:00pm-5:00pm Instructions to Begin After attending Volunteer Orientation, volunteers will receive a pre-screening email from the Lead Vet Assistant. Then volunteers will attend a 1 hour training session with some of the S.N.I.P. Clinic’s seasoned volunteers. If both parties agree that it is a good fit, volunteers will be asked to come back for “on the job training”. Contact Information
1. KHS Lead Vet Assistant: Lisa Downs- [email protected] 2. KHS SNIP Director: Karen Koenig- [email protected] 3. KHS Volunteer Coordinator: Whitney Hobbs – [email protected]
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External Behavior Assistant
Behavior Assistants play a vital role is assisting with group training classes offered to the public.
Assistants will be working under the direct supervision of the Lead Behavior Trainer.
Key Responsibilities 1. Monitor attendance during class 2. Selling merchandise after class is over 3. Assist with training exercises 4. Answer general behavior questions
Qualifications
1. Volunteers must attend Volunteer Orientation 2. Volunteers must attend Behavior Orientation 3. Volunteers must be 18 years of age or older
Location Classes are offered at the KHS Main Campus, KHS East Campus,
Douglass Blvd Community Center, St Albans Church, and the Girl
Scouts Center
Time Commitment 6 month commitment required (3 hours per week each week of the
6-week course)
Instructions to Begin After attending Volunteer Orientation, volunteers will attend
Behavior Orientation to review basic rules of classes and receive an overview of positive reinforcement
training methods. Availability and schedule will be discussed and volunteers will be assigned a lead
behavior trainer and location they will work at.
Contact Information 1. KHS Behavior Manager: Kat Rooks- [email protected] 2. KHS Volunteer Coordinator: Whitney Hobbs – [email protected]
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Volunteer Training Main Campus Puppy Pals and Kitty Comfort training sessions will immediately follow Volunteer Orientation. Canine Coach will follow Puppy Pals and Kitty Comfort. Each session lasts approximately an hour.
East Campus Training at East Campus is held the Wednesday following Volunteer Orientation. Training will encompass Puppy Pals, Kitty Comfort and Canine Coach.
Other Trainings Training for S.N.I.P., Behavior Assistant, Helpline and Foster will be held on other days. Based on what you marked on your application, you will be contacted by a KHS staff member to schedule a time for training.
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Community Support
Volunteer Membership Once you become at KHS Volunteer, you have the option of becoming a Volunteer Member. For an
annual contribution of $20, you will receive the following benefits:
A Volunteer T-shirt (new design and color every year)
A Volunteer Discount Card (offers discounted services at KHS)
A subscription to the PAW Street Journal (KHS quarterly newsletter)
A copy of the KHS annual report If you are interested in becoming a Volunteer Member, please contact the Volunteer Coordinator to sign up.
Donations KHS is always in need of donations for the animals in our care. From blankets and sheets to treats and toys, KHS is grateful for any and all donations. All of the items that KHS is currently in need of are listed on our website . Items can be dropped off at the East Campus or Main Campus.
Service Learning Projects If you are in need of service hours for school or church, or have a child who is too young to volunteer at the shelter, service learning projects are available. From making treats for the dogs or kitty comfort boxes, we have something for everyone. All of the opportunities are listed on our website
All service learning projects must be approved by both the Volunteer Coordinator and the teacher or organization requiring service learning hours prior to the start date. Please note that all of the projects are completed from home.
Upon completion of your project, please contact the Volunteer Coordinator to schedule a day and time to deliver all wish list items, toys, or monetary donations to the KHS Main Campus or East Campus.
