VOLUNTEER
HANDBOOK
VOLUNTEERING TO WORK WITH DOGS
If you would like to work with the dogs there are a number of important rules that must be followed:
Ø Inform the Dog Carer you are on the premises before undertaking any tasks.
Ø Do not enter the kennel of any dog in quarantine unless instructed to do so by the Dog Carer of the day.
Ø No dog in quarantine should go for a walk or be removed from its kennel unless you are asked to do so by the Dog Carer of the day.
Ø Use a correctly fitted half check collar or a correctly fitted halti or harness when walking the dogs of your choice. At no time should the dogs be walked with just a lead attached to their collars. Collars can break and can also be loosened thereby allowing the collar to go over the dogs’ head, all of which could make it a dangerous situation for the dog.
Ø When entering a kennel, ensure the gates are securely shut behind you. This is a precautionary measure in case the dog escapes.
Ø Walk one dog per person to minimise control issues.
Ø Keep a lead on the dog when walking; do not allow the dog to roam.
Ø Know the name of the dog you are walking.
Ø Walk on the side edges of the road, not on the road itself.
Ø Because of the risk of ticks do not take the dogs in the bush.
Ø Do not take the dog onto Ranford Road or anywhere near Ranford Road.
Ø Do not walk dogs when the outside temperature is 28 degrees or above.
Ø Take a poo bag with you when walking a dog. Pick up any droppings and dispose of them in the bin in the kennels or the skip out the front of the Refuge.
Ø Report any unusual dog behaviour such as excessive urination, scratching or barking, or other concerns, to the Dog Carer upon your return. This helps expose any behavioural or health problems that may otherwise be unrecognised.
Ø Do not medicate any dog.
Ø Only Dog Carers are allowed to rehome or receive dogs.
Ø Only loosen dog collars after seeking advice from the Dog Carer. Loose collars can result in serious accidents.
IF YOU ARE IN DOUBT ABOUT ANYTHING PLEASE ASK THE DOG CARER OF THE DAY
No ear phones are to be worn when walking a dog. It could be dangerous to do so.
Place dogs on a short leash when passing cat area and other visitors.
Do not allow dogs to jump up on other people
Keep a safe distance at all times from other dogs being walked to avoid dog fights.
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