Volunteer Manual
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Table of Contents Welcome message 1. About Great Plains SPCA 2. Locations and Hours of Operation 3. Volunteer Role and Benefits 4. Volunteer Requirements a. Age Requirements b. Commitment Requirements c. Certificate of Ability d. Skill and Experience Requirements 5. Volunteer Program Policies a. Appropriate Attire b. Health and Safety c. Disease Control d. Accident Policy e. Visitors and Personal Guests f. Alcohol and Drug Policy g. Sexual and Other Unlawful Harassment h. Smoking 6. Volunteer Supervision 7. Discipline and Grievance a. Disciplinary Action b. Grievances c. Dismissal 8. Scheduling and Sign-In Procedures 9. Non-Disclosure 10. Social Media Statement 11. Photo Release Appendices A. Volunteer Code of Ethics B. Volunteer Opportunities C. Volunteer Communication D. Adoption and Receiving Process E. Foster Program F. Euthanasia Hold G. Stray Surrender Policy Release of Waiver and Liability
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Dear Volunteer, Welcome to Great Plains SPCA! Volunteers are essential to our mission, and we thank you for choosing us. We simply can’t do it without the generous and faithful support of people like you. This manual should answer most common questions and the Cat 101/Dog 101 training presentations and your Mentor Shift session should address any additional needs. Please know that your questions, comments or concerns are always welcome. On behalf of everyone at Great Plains SPCA, two-legged and four, we welcome you. We’re very glad to have you. Best, Rachel Bracken Volunteer Manager – Independence
[email protected] 913-808-3397 Elizabeth Shelton Volunteer Manager – Merriam
[email protected] 913-808-3368
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1. About Great Plains SPCA Our mission: To drive change in our community through innovative programs that promote adoption, outreach, veterinary care, and a better life for pets and the people who love them. Kansas City animal welfare has come a long way thanks to a community of devoted organizations, rescue groups and individual animal advocates. Great Plains SPCA collaborates with many of the other animal welfare agencies in the area, because together we can accomplish more. But what sets us apart? We are the Kansas City Metro’s most unique and comprehensive No Kill animal welfare organization, serving more than 35,000 needy pets annually – more than any other agency in the area. With a bi-state presence in Merriam and Independence, we are ready to transform Kansas City and beyond to a lifesaving No Kill community. We proudly report a live-release rate of 96% or higher. We offer a lifelong, full-circle approach for pets and their human companions with our three-pronged approach: prevention, adoption, retention. Leadership at Great Plains SPCA is comprised of experienced business professionals and experts in the animal welfare field. Collectively, our Executive Leadership Team has a wealth of experience in this industry. In addition, we are fortunate to have the support of highly respected business leaders on our Board of Directors and in our community to help us drive our mission forward. Our community benefits from our comprehensive services including: Humane, compassionate sheltering of homeless animals Creating families through pet adoptions Reconnecting families with lost pet reunions Comprehensive, affordable veterinary care for the public Quality medical care for shelter animals High-quality, low-cost spay/neuter programs for the public Broad community outreach and education programs Effective volunteer, foster, rescue and transport programs Trap, neuter and return for feral and free-roaming cats Targeted pet retention and behavior training programs Pet ID and licensing programs which increase our ability to return lost pets to their owners Management of lost and stray pets for five Johnson County municipalities, the City of Independence, Unincorporated Jackson County and Sugar Creek
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At Great Plains SPCA, we believe that no matter what their size, shape or story, all dogs and cats deserve the chance to live long, happy and healthy lives. That’s why our team of experts works hard every day to be a lifeline to a better future for pets by providing comprehensive, affordable medical care, adoption services and innovative community programs. Because we know that with a little support, people and pets can build a bond unlike any other, creating happier homes and a community that values life and love.
History Great Plains SPCA, a Missouri 501(c)3 tax-exempt organization, was formed through the official merger of two lifesaving organizations in June 2011 – Animal Haven and No More Homeless Pets KC.
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Animal Haven was founded in 1966 and grew to be the largest animal welfare organization in Johnson County. Animal Haven managed twelve Johnson County municipal contracts and showed high success in both adoptions and returning lost pets to owners. No More Homeless Pets KC launched in October 2003. They opened a spay and neuter clinic in December 2007 and followed that by opening a Wellness Clinic in January 2011. The two organizations combined to form Kansas City’s most comprehensive resource for pets and their human companions.
2. Locations, Contacts, and Hours of Operation Great Plains SPCA’s team is on duty 365 days a year to ensure that the pets are cared for properly. The pets are always our first priority.
Independence Campus Adoptions 21001 E 78 Hwy, Independence, MO 64057 913-808-3370
[email protected] Great Plains SPCA Volunteer Public Hours Hours Tuesday-Friday
7 am - 7 pm
12 pm - 7 pm
Saturday-Sunday
7 am - 6 pm
11 am – 6 pm
Monday
7 am – 6 pm
CLOSED
Independence Campus Lost Pet & Intake Center 21001 E 78 Hwy, Independence, MO 64057 816-783-5102 DOGS; 913-808-3383 CATS; 913-808-3378
[email protected] Public Hours Great Plains SPCA Lost Pet Reclaim Volunteer Hours
Public Hours Intake Appointment only
Tuesday-Friday
7 am - 7 pm
8 am – 7 pm
12 pm – 6 pm
Saturday-Sunday
7 am - 6 pm
10 am – 6 pm
CLOSED
Monday
7 am – 6 pm
8 am – 6 pm
12 pm – 6 pm
Merriam Pet Adoption Center 5424 Antioch Drive, Merriam, KS 66202 6|Page
913-742-7324
[email protected] Great Plains SPCA Volunteer Public Hours Hours Monday & Tuesday
7 am - 7 pm
By Appointment ONLY
Wednesday-Friday
7 am - 6 pm
12 pm – 7 pm
Saturday-Sunday
7 am – 6 pm
11 am- 6 pm
Merriam Veterinary Care Center 5428 Antioch Drive, Merriam, KS 66202 913-808-3324
[email protected] Great Plains SPCA Volunteer Hours
Public Hours Appointments Required
Monday-Friday
7 am - 6 pm
7:30 am – 6 pm
Saturday
8 am – 3 pm
8 am – 3 pm
Sunday
8 am – 3 pm
CLOSED
Merriam Lost Pet & Intake Center 5424 Antioch Drive, Merriam, KS 66202 913-808-3347
[email protected] Great Plains SPCA Volunteer Hours
Monday-Friday
7 am - 7 pm
Saturday
7 am – 6 pm
Sunday
8 am – 6 pm
Public Hours *By Appointment ONLY Sunday, Monday & Thursday
Great Plains SPCA is closed to the public on the following holidays: New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day 7|Page
Volunteers are encouraged to sign up for a shift on any of these holidays to help us care for the pets. Volunteer hours for any holiday will be communicated prior to the holiday. Typical hours for holidays are 8 am to 5 pm.
3. Volunteer Role and Benefits Our shelters are honored to provide a loving, safe, comfortable place for homeless animals to become homebound. We serve thousands of animals in our shelter each year and rely on volunteers to help animals in our care find their forever homes, as well as help provide each animal with top-notch care during their stay. The core work of this role involves: Working hands-on with shelter animals to provide socialization, exercise, clean and comfortable quarters, stress reduction, and enrichment Promoting shelter animals for adoption by reinforcing adoptable behaviors Engaging potential adopters and guiding them accurately through the adoption process Benefits of volunteering in this role: Make a direct positive impact on homeless animals in your community Enhance the lives of our shelter animals Work in partnership with a respected and reputable animal welfare organization Match volunteer activities to your skills and interests Play a part in the unique community of other fellow volunteers, animals, staff members and adopters Increase your knowledge of animal behavior, animal handling skills and veterinary terms and protocols Progress through a program that provides new responsibilities, new training and more enriching and challenging volunteer experiences The unique bond between an animal in need and a caring human Document service hours and gain references for your resume or education Receive tax credit for your mileage to and from volunteer activities
4. Volunteer Requirements Great Plains SPCA is committed to creating families and helping people of all ages experience the true joy pets bring into our lives. The following opportunities are available to enrich the lives of youth in our community. 4.a Age Requirements Children 6-10 – Children between the ages of 6 and 10 are limited to volunteer opportunities that do not involve contact with animals. Unfortunately, we do not have a space for safe 8|Page
interaction between our general shelter dogs and cats and young children. Children must be at least 11 years old or older to volunteer in the dog and cat areas, and must have a parent or guardian with them at all times. Young children are invited with their parents to visit the shelter any time during open Adoptions hours. Each campus has several rooms with free-roaming cats, and young children with their parents are welcome to interact with these cats as members of the public while they gauge whether or not they would like to take the next step to become a regular, committed volunteer. Families that want to volunteer must complete all steps including the online volunteer application for each individual and completion by parents and children of both New Volunteer Orientation, Cat or Dog 101 and Mentor Shift(s). Once all steps are completed to become volunteers, families may volunteer as “Sparkle Crew.” Activities may include laundry, washing and stuffing KONGs, adding sparkle to the shelter by organizing and putting away donations and cleaning, yard work, and other special projects as assigned. Children under the age of 11 are also encouraged to get involved by running donation drives and fundraisers, as well as being a part of a foster family for an animal in need! Check out our Pinterest boards for DIY dog toy and DIY cat toy projects, bake sale goods for animals, and more! Please email
[email protected] (Merriam Campus) or
[email protected] (Independence Campus) for more information. Children 11-15 – Children between the ages of 11 and 15 are invited to work alongside their parents to perform the activities outlined above along with the opportunity to enrich the lives of kenneled cats and dogs. Parents and children must complete all necessary volunteer classes. Parents must be in charge of opening kennels, handling the animals, and holding the leash, as well as supervising their children. We ask that children remain by the door or outside the kennel area while parents get dogs out of kennels, as the dogs can be very excited when we first get them out. Parents and children may socialize with shelter cats in the various play rooms. Parents must be mindful of pets who are timid or who have been marked with child restrictions. These pets are not appropriate candidates for interaction with young children. Ages 16 and older – Volunteers that are aged 16 and older may volunteer independently after completing all necessary volunteer classes. Volunteers under the age of 18 must have a parent or guardian sign a release and waiver of liability prior to working in the shelter. 4.b Commitment Requirements A minimum of 4 hours per month for 3 months is required for new volunteers to be oriented, trained, comfortable, and confident team members. If you are unable to make this commitment, there are other wonderful ways to help out! For information on donation drives and projects, visit http://www.greatplainsspca.org/donate/. You can also use social media to share our adoptable animals, upcoming events, and more! These actions provide a huge difference to the animals in our care! 4.c Certificate of Ability Any volunteer or potential volunteer who is under the care of a doctor for either physical or psychological treatment may be asked to provide a certificate from the doctor as to their ability 9|Page
to satisfactorily or safely perform their volunteer duties. Volunteers under the course of treatment that might affect their volunteer work will not be accepted without written verification of suitability from their doctor. Any volunteer who, after acceptance and assignment by Great Plains SPCA, enters a course of treatment that might adversely impact the performance of their duties should consult with their Volunteer Manager. 4.d Skill and Experience Requirements While volunteers bring a variety of experience and skills to their roles, the following basic set of skills and experience are helpful to fulfil your role as a volunteer. You may have developed these from work, volunteering, or in your personal life. Basic knowledge of animal body language (we will teach you more!) Comfortable and competent handling of animals of various sizes, temperaments, and needs safely both in and out of the kennel – we can work with limitations but we must be aware of them! Recognize and work within any limitations you or the animal may have Good interpersonal and communication skills Attention to surroundings Willingness to be flexible and work on a team Ability to work without direct supervision Frequent walking, bending, stooping, squatting, lifting, and other physical demands Tolerance of loud noises and odors from cleaning agents and animal waste Tolerance of outdoor elements
5. Volunteer Policies 5.a Appropriate Attire. Appropriate attire must be worn when working at the shelter or at offsite locations. This consists of volunteer shirt (preferred) or other Great Plains SPCA branded shirt, volunteer name badge, and closed-toe, rubber-soled shoes. Plain or other animal welfare-related shirts may be worn with a volunteer name badge, only if the shirt does not identify them as representatives of any other organization. When working with animals, long pants or capri-style pants are strongly recommended. No dangling or hoop jewelry or loose clothing that could catch on paws, claws, door handles, etc. Dress for volunteers handling animals should be casual and practical but also tidy and clean. Certain volunteer jobs may require different or more professional attire. 5.b Health and Safety Safety is of primary importance for Great Plains and our volunteers. Please pay attention to the following safety concerns. Wear appropriate attire.
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Do not try to carry a load that is too heavy for you. Practice proper lifting procedures and ask for help when you need it. During the summer months the heat index can be very high. If you are working outdoors please recognize your limitations. Come in to rest and cool down. During winter months, the wind chill can be very low. If you are working outdoors, please recognize your limitations. Come in to rest and warm up. You are strongly advised to update your tetanus vaccination and keep it current while volunteering at the shelter.
5.c Disease Control The following Great Plain SPCA health and disease control procedures must be followed at all times. Be sure to properly sanitize your hands between handling each pet. Always clean up feces immediately. When cleaning, follow the procedures provided in training. Briefly, they are: Disinfectant for kennels: Accel (accelerated hydrogen peroxide) is diluted 1:16 with water and allowed to sit with wet contact for at least 5 minutes. Staff and trained volunteers may dilute Accel in spray bottles and foamers. Disinfectant for laundry: add bleach (check for label as disinfectant, as some scented bleaches do not have adequate disinfectant properties) to machine per instructions 5.d Accident Policy Accidents that result in injury, including bites and scratches, regardless of how insignificant the injury may appear, must be reported to the manager on duty immediately. Such reports are necessary to help us monitor the health and wellbeing of our pets, and do not automatically mean any negative consequence for the animal. There are first aid kits located in Reception and Training areas. Accident/incident reports can be obtained from the Receptionist. A report must be filled out and signed by both the volunteer and a team member. We ask that all volunteers have current immunization against tetanus. As stated in the volunteer waiver you signed, you are assuming the risks of volunteering at Great Plains SPCA. This includes work that may be hazardous to the volunteer, including, but not limited to dog and/or cat handling, lifting heavy objects, bending, standing for extended periods of time, exposure to cleaning chemicals and transportation to and from off-site events. In your waiver, you expressly and specifically assumed the risk of injury or harm in the activities and released Great Plains SPCA from all liability for injury, illness, death or property damage resulting from the activities on or offsite Great Plains SPCA property. 5.e Visitors and Personal Guests Visitors and guests are welcome to come for a detailed tour of the facility if prearranged with a Volunteer Manager. Guests can accompany you in public areas. They will not be allowed to handle animals alone and must be treated as a regular member of the public when viewing pets. Please encourage friends and guests to become volunteers if interested! 11 | P a g e
5.f Alcohol and Drug Policy Great Plains SPCA is committed to providing a safe, efficient and productive environment for all employees and volunteers. Using, possessing or being under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the facility poses serious safety and health risks. While on Great Plains SPCA property and while conducting business related activities off premises, no volunteer may use, possess, distribute, sell or be under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs. The legal use of prescribed drugs is permitted at the facility only if it does not impair a volunteer’s ability to perform essential functions of the job effectively and in a safe manner that does not endanger other individuals. 5.g Sexual and Other Unlawful Harassment Great Plains SPCA is committed to providing an environment that is free from all forms of discrimination and conduct that can be considered harassing, coercive, or disruptive, including sexual harassment. Actions, words, jokes or comments based on an individual’s sex, race, color, sexual preference, national origin, age, religion, disability, or any other legally protected characteristic will not be tolerated and are grounds for termination of the volunteer relationship. Report it to your Volunteer Manager immediately if you experience or witness sexual or other unlawful harassment in the workplace. If your Volunteer Manager is unavailable or you believe it would be inappropriate to contact that person, you should immediately contact your Chief Operating Officer. You can raise concerns and make reports without fear of reprisal or retaliation. All allegations of sexual harassment will be quickly and discreetly investigated. 5.h Smoking. Smoking is not permitted on Great Plains SPCA property, including in vehicles parked in our parking lots. Smoking is never allowed while handling a Great Plains SPCA pet! This includes while walking pets off Great Plains SPCA property.
6. Volunteer Supervision Volunteers must take direction from the team member that oversees the area in which they are assigned. Any concerns with assignments must be directed to the Volunteer Manager.
7. Discipline and Grievance 7.a Disciplinary Action Possible grounds for disciplinary action may include but are not limited to the following: gross misconduct or insubordination, being under the influence of or possession of alcohol or illegal 12 | P a g e
drugs, theft, misuse of equipment or materials, abuse or mistreatment of pets, customers, staff or other volunteers, failure to abide by policies and procedures, failure to meet physical or mental standards of performance or failure to satisfactorily perform assigned duties. Disciplinary action may include a private conversation with the Volunteer Manager and/or other members of Leadership, probation and/or dismissal. 7.b Grievances All grievances should be brought to the attention of your Volunteer Manager. If the issue is not resolved and/or addressed by your Volunteer Manager, please see your Chief Operating Officer. 7.c Dismissal Volunteers who do not adhere to the rules and regulations of Great Plains SPCA or who fail to satisfactorily perform volunteer duties may be subject to dismissal. Great Plains SPCA reserves the right to dismiss a volunteer without warning in the case of gross negligence or misconduct.
8. Scheduling and Sign-In Procedures Scheduling volunteer hours is very flexible! The minimum commitment for volunteers is 4 hours per month for at least 3 months. These hours can be done at your convenience. Some positions require scheduled shifts while others simply ask that you fulfill your minimum 4 hours per month. In addition to this commitment, you are always welcome to volunteer during any open volunteer hours without advance notice. Electronic sign-in instructions are given after completion of New Volunteer Orientation. You will sign in using the PIN assigned to you that can be found on your volunteer nametag. You must sign in and out for all hours served. You may also enter hours for off-site volunteer work or if you forget to sign in and out from your Volgistics account (http://www.greatplainsspca.org/volunteer/volunteer-login/). Log in using your email address and the password you selected on your Volunteer Application. We ask our volunteers to sign in and out for a few reasons: ● Grant Writing: Recording your hours enables us to track the number of hours donated by our volunteers. This in turn helps us to obtain funding from various foundations. ● Safety: We need to know who is in the building in the event of an emergency.
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Quality use of your time: Staff can see that you are here if they need you without you having to remain in that area. You can work as Dog Hero, Cat Hero, or Sparkle Crew until you are needed for Meet n’ Greets, for example. ● Students: signing in and out lets us track students’ volunteer hours for projects, scholarships, and college applications.
9. Non-Disclosure The protection of confidential business information is vital to the interests and success of Great Plains SPCA. Such confidential information includes, but is not limited to, the following examples: ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●
Trade secrets or technical information Computer processes Customer lists Adoption, volunteer and employment applications Customer preferences Marketing strategies Event plans Financial records Volunteers who improperly use or disclose trade secrets or confidential business information will be subject to termination of volunteer duties even if they do not actually benefit from the disclosed information.
10. Social Media Statement for Volunteers Great Plains SPCA takes no position on your decision to start or maintain a blog or participate in other social networking activities. However, it is the right and duty of the organization to protect itself from unauthorized disclosure of information and conduct contrary to the Mission. Great Plains SPCA’s social networking policy includes rules and guidelines for company-authorized social networking and personal social networking and applies to all executive officers, board members, management, staff, and volunteers. General Provisions Blogging or other forms of social media or technology include but are not limited to video or wiki postings, sites such as Facebook and Twitter, chat rooms, personal blogs, or similar forms of online journals, diaries or personal newsletters not affiliated with Great Plains SPCA. Unless specifically instructed by Executive Leadership, volunteers are not authorized and therefore restricted to speak on behalf of Great Plains SPCA. Volunteers may not use social media to represent Great Plains SPCA in any way contrary to our Mission to save, protect, and improve the lives of animals while strengthening the bond between pets and their human companions. This includes associating Great Plains SPCA in name or otherwise with posts or pictures that could reasonably be interpreted by the public or 14 | P a g e
otherwise as negative, derogatory or damaging. Prohibitions include, but are not limited to tagging the organization or its employees on such posts or pictures; posting such remarks as to damage Great Plains SPCA’s reputation in the community or relationships both external and internal; or sharing or reposting such posts on pages or sites administered by Great Plains SPCA. Volunteers may not publicly discuss clients, products, employees or any work-related matters, whether confidential or not, outside company-authorized communications. Volunteers are expected to protect the privacy of Great Plains SPCA and its employees, clients and volunteers and are prohibited from disclosing personal employee and nonemployee information and any other proprietary and nonpublic information to which volunteers have access. Such information includes but is not limited to customer information, trade secrets, financial information and strategic business plans. Facebook Volunteers may not use their personal or other Facebook accounts in any way prohibited as described above. Our private Facebook pages and groups are places for volunteers and staff to share constructive information, talk about adoptions and success stories and discuss available animals that may need extra attention. We also use them to inform you of changes, updates, or current needs. Our Facebook pages are places for community and friendship, for volunteers and staff to share laughs and stories. However, these groups are not intended for conversation about euthanasia, policies, specifics of an animal’s medical care, or general complaints. To ensure effective and accurate communication concerning topics of this nature, please direct questions, comments, and concerns to a Volunteer Manager or the appropriate staff leadership in that department. Be sure to request to join the following pages: Great Plains SPCA Volunteers (ALL VOLUNTEERS) GPSPCA Merriam CAT Volunteers (for Cat Heroes) GPSPCA Merriam DOG Volunteers (for Dog Heroes) GPSPCA Independence CAT Volunteers (for Cat Heroes) GPSPCA Independence DOG Volunteers (for Dog Heroes)
11.Photo Release Volunteers’ photographs, images, or likeness may be used in Great Plains SPCA’s marketing and promotional materials.
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Thank you for your dedication and compassion for animals in need!
Welcome to the Great Plains SPCA team! Please complete, sign, and return the last page of this document, the Release and Waiver of Liability prior to volunteering. Thank you.
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Appendix A Volunteer Code of Ethics As a volunteer representing Great Plains SPCA, your conduct and interaction with team members, other volunteers and the public is expected to always be professional and courteous. By volunteering, you are making a commitment to our team and our pets to carry out, to the best of your abilities, the tasks you have pledged to perform. The Volunteer Code of Ethics clarifies the expectations and principals for Great Plains SPCA volunteers. Should a volunteer display unprofessional, dishonest or disrespectful behavior or exhibit a lack of self-discipline, the volunteer will be asked to leave the premises. Such behavior could be grounds for termination of volunteer status. As a Great Plains SPCA Volunteer I pledge to: Respect ● Respect others even when I may not agree with them ● Display courtesy, sensitivity, consideration and compassion for people and animals ● Use good judgment in recognizing the scope of authority of team members Safety ● Keep safety at the forefront of all volunteer activities ● Follow the guidelines presented to me during training and mentoring ● Respect and use equipment and supplies as they are intended ● Report all injuries immediately to a team member Quality ● Perform all tasks to the best of my ability ● Ask for help when needed ● Recognize additional training is essential to maintain safe shelter practices and attend trainings and meetings as they are offered Self-Discipline ● Recognize my limitations and those of others ● Set boundaries for myself – know my limits both physically and otherwise ● Hold myself accountable for the commitments I undertake Communication ● Direct questions, comments, concerns to the appropriate party ● Listen to the needs of others ● Recognize I communicate both verbally and non-verbally ● Advise personnel of relevant information regarding the animals in our care and my involvement at the shelter Commitment ● Respect that the team and the animals count on me to honor my commitments ● Work together with team members and other volunteers to meet Great Plains SPCA’s goals Welfare ● Value my role in the maintenance and growth of the organization 17 | P a g e
● ●
Strive to promote a positive environment Respect and support all people and animals
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Appendix B Volunteer Opportunities at Great Plains SPCA Volunteering at Great Plains SPCA is more than just an opportunity to work with the animals in our care. It is a challenging and rewarding opportunity to provide a higher quality of life for the animals in our community through adoption, education, services, and collaboration with our animal welfare community. One of the most important aspects of the Great Plains SPCA volunteer program is the diversity of responsibilities that volunteers undertake on a daily basis. Volunteers are essential to our mission to save, protect, and improve the lives of animals while strengthening the relationship between pets and their human companions. Most volunteers begin their time as Dog Heroes and Cat Heroes as they get to know the organization, the animals, and themselves. If and when you are interested in other volunteer placements, please contact your Volunteer Manager. Placement While we do our best to match your skills and interests with our organizational needs, we cannot guarantee a particular position will become or remain available. We will provide training as needed and as we are able. See your Volunteer Manager for detailed Job Descriptions as well as a comprehensive list of opportunities. Following are brief introductions to most needed and most popular assignments:
Opportunities Available at Both Locations: Adoption Advocates
Adoption Advocate Facilitate great matches between adopters and animals Explain medical and behavioral history, adoption guidelines Counsel adopter on responsible pet ownership Prerequisites: Dog 101 and/or Cat 101 Class, Meet n’ Greet Class, Match Making Class (can be completed following placement in Adoptions department), 4 hour working interview/shadowing session, placement by Adoption Supervisor/Manager
Bio Writer Write short bios for animals’ online profiles Prerequisite: Placement by Volunteer Manager
Follow-up Adoption Calls Help facilitate family bonding with recently adopted animals by calling adopters and directing them toward additional resources if needed Prerequisite: Cat 101 and/or Dog 101 Class, Placement by Adoptions Supervisor/Manager 19 | P a g e
Meet n’ Greet Introduce public to shelter pets Answer prospective adopter’s questions Help facilitate great matches for forever homes Prerequisites: Dog 101 and/or Cat 101 Class, Meet n’ Greet Class OR Match Making Class *2 hours of Meet n’ Greet job shadowing may substitute for class requirement
Shutterbug & Photo Assistants Take portraits of our animals to showcase on their profiles Fetch and pose animals who need photos for professional photographers Upload or email web-ready photos Prerequisite: Dog 101 and/or Cat 101 Class, Placement by Adoption Manager
Videographer
Take short videos for animals’ online profiles Prerequisite: Placement by Volunteer Manager
Around the Shelter
Sparkle Crew
Help our facilities sparkle! Help with laundry, dishes, organizing and putting away donations, and more. Contribute to and maintain a clean and comfortable environment Practice good sanitation and disease prevention Sweep and mop floors Organize garage and supplies Help with facility maintenance and landscaping Do laundry Prerequisite: New Volunteer Orientation, Release and Waiver of Liability
Cat Opportunities
Cat Hero
Work hands-on with shelter cats to provide socialization, exercise, clean and comfortable quarters, stress reduction, and enrichment
Engage potential adopters and guide them accurately through the process from “just looking” to “Meet n’ Greet” during open Adoptions hours Practice good sanitation and disease prevention Prerequisite: Cat 101 Class 20 | P a g e
Minimum 20 hours served in Adoptions before handling animals in Cat Holding or at Lost Pet Center. See your Volunteer Manager before handling these cats. Note: Volunteers may NOT interact with animals placed on Bite Quarantine with VERY FEW exceptions made by management.
Cat Hero Mentor Engage newer volunteers and guide them in safe cat interaction
Provide tour and hands-on practice
Demonstrate how to sign in and out using PIN; how to sign up for shifts and log hours from home using volunteer log in
Meet with new volunteers for one-on-one sessions as needed Prerequisite: Cat 101 and 30 hours Cat Hero, Placement by Volunteer Manager
Cat Groom Team
Help cats and kittens make a great first impression to prospective adopters by trimming nails, sponge/washcloth bathing soiled areas of the body, and brushing, bathing, clipping as needed Prerequisites: Cat 101 Class, Placement by Volunteer Manager if trimming, clipping, or bathing
In the Community
HERO and Outreach
Travel the streets with our team to ensure animals in our community have food, veterinary care, shelter, and other needs met Prerequisite: Placement by Outreach Coordinator
Humane Education Support
Assist with Great Plains SPCA’s Young Heroes for Pets day camps
Facilitate shelter tours for groups of children
Present to schools and groups offsite – who are the animals in our care, what do they need from us, and how can youth help? Prerequisite: Placement by Volunteer Manager
Mobile Events Engage the community to promote awareness of Great Plains SPCA Transport and handle adoptable animals at events Transport and set up table or booth with promotional materials
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Prerequisite: Dog 101 and/or Cat 101 Class (if animal handling required) Placement by Volunteer Manager & Development Department
Trap, Neuter, Return
Trap feral and free-roaming cats and transport them to our facilities for spay/neuter surgery Prerequisite: Placement by Volunteer Manager
Dog Opportunities
Canine Care Support Team
This is a hands-on, direct care position in Dog Adoptions. By providing essential, routine care during the days and evenings, the Canine Care Support Team enables staff to focus on early morning care and daily enrichment for all dogs in Dog Adoptions and Dog Holding. Provide dogs on the Adoption floor with professional, conscientious, compassionate care, meeting physical and behavioral needs Handle dogs of all sizes, ages, temperaments and needs safely and appropriately. Follow and maintain excellent knowledge of organization cleaning, sanitation, and disease prevention protocols in order to provide a safe, clean environment for all Prerequisite: Minimum of 30 Dog Hero hours Dog 201 and placement by Shelter Director/ or Animal Care Manager
Dog Hero
Work hands-on with shelter dogs to provide socialization, exercise, clean and comfortable quarters, stress reduction, and enrichment
Promote shelter dogs for adoption by reinforcing adoptable behaviors (all four on the floor, sit before getting out of kennel, calm greeting, loose leash walking, etc.) Engage potential adopters and guide them accurately through the process from “just looking” to “Meet n’ Greet” during open Adoptions hours Practice good sanitation and disease prevention Prerequisite: Dog 101 Class Minimum 30 hours served in Adoptions before handling animals in Dog Holding or at Lost Pet Center. See your Volunteer Manager before handling these dogs. Note: Volunteers may NOT interact with animals placed on Bite Quarantine with VERY FEW exceptions made by management.
Dog Hero Mentor Engage newer volunteers and guide them in safe dog handling
Provide tour and hands-on practice
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Demonstrate how to sign in and out using PIN; how to sign up for shifts and log hours from home using volunteer log in
Meet with new volunteers for one-on-one sessions as needed Dog 101 and 30 hours Dog Hero, Placement by Volunteer Manager
Dog Groom Team
Help animals make a great first impression to prospective adopters by bathing, brushing, and even trimming or clipping Prerequisites: Dog 101 Class, Dog Mentor Shift, Placement by Volunteer Manager if trimming or clipping
Veterinary Clinic
Vet Clinic Support x Tasks include cleaning, providing TLC care for cats in Vet Clinic, scrubbing surgical instruments and making surgery packs, other tasks as assigned Prerequisites: 30+ hours of volunteer service, application to Vet Clinic leadership, interview, 4-hour training, placement by Veterinary Clinic Manager
Independence Specific Opportunities Admissions
Admissions Assistant
To provide prompt and exceptional service to all members of the public who call the Admissions department
Pull messages and return phone calls, connect member of the public with appropriate information, resources, or staff member when needed
Keep accurate records of messages pulled and returned, including dates and times for all calls Edit and upload photos to animals’ profiles Keep Admissions area neat and organized Assist with other tasks as assigned by Admissions Staff Prerequisite: Placement by Admissions Manager/Intake Supervisor
Lost Pet Hero Photograph animals on stray hold and upload to appropriate sites Respond to Lost Pet Inquiries Prerequisite: Placement by Admissions Manager/ Intake Supervisor
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Receptionist
Provide prompt and exceptional service to Great Plains SPCA customers who visit or call to inquire about shelter services and programs.
Actively engage members of the public from the moment they arrive or call, assist and answer any questions; connect member of the public with appropriate staff member when needed
Manage any queue of public waiting for Meet n’ Greets or Adoptions Pull and return phone calls Keep reception area neat and organized Assist in the cleaning and care of any animals in the reception area Use computer to look up animal information, create kennel cards and signs, and more Assist with other tasks as assigned by Staff Receptionist Prerequisite: 4-hour working interview/shadowing session, Placement by Reception Supervisor and Volunteer Manager
Merriam Specific Opportunities Dog Wash Team
Meet every other Wednesday at 9:00 at the PAC to transport dogs to U-Wash-Puppy at 75th and Nieman Bathe and socialize dogs Return dogs to the PAC following the wash May additionally wash dogs in the PAC’s wash tub
Veterinary Client Services Advocate Answer phone calls and schedule public appointments at our Veterinary Care Center in Merriam
Help main desk with check in and pick up of animals receiving veterinary cars Prepare surgery packs Clean and sterilize instruments Transport pets to specialists for appointments Make reminder calls for veterinary appointments Perform administrative tasks, including preparing and filing folders and entering data into programs Prerequisite: Placement by Volunteer Manager, Veterinary Care Clinic Manager, Client Services interview and related training
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Appendix C Volunteer Communication We always strive to communicate effectively with our volunteers. Because we are fortunate to have a large volunteer base, we ask that you use the following guidelines to ensure accurate, effective, and timely communication: Face to face is best! We maintain the expectation of ourselves and of you that face-toface interaction be respectful and constructive. Sometimes this may mean scheduling another time to talk more in-depth in order to fulfill our duties to the animals in our care. Campus Updates/Bi-Weekly Newsletters– brief newsletters detailing current specials, shelter needs, updates or changes in programs or policies, upcoming classes and events, Volunteer of the Month recognition, etc. both organization-wide and campus-specific Direct email – each staff member has an email address and is expected to check email each work day. We encourage you to contact staff directly by email, especially with any questions or issues that are not appropriate to post in a Facebook group. You may also exchange email addresses with fellow volunteers. Phone – each member of leadership has either a desk phone, a cell phone, or both. Phone numbers are available on business cards, in the staff phone directory found in Reception at each location, and on our website. We encourage you to contact staff directly by phone during business hours, especially with anything sensitive or timesensitive. Facebook volunteer groups – please see “Facebook” under the Social Media Statement for Volunteers. We encourage you to take part in these wonderful, helpful groups!
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Appendix D Adoption and Receiving Process Receiving Center Procedures ● Lost pets are brought to each facility by city animal control or by concerned citizens who befriend a lost pet. Drop off must be authorized by the animal control agency in the city where the pet was found. ● Animals are vaccinated, heartworm or FIV/FeLV tested, dewormed, microchipped, and receive flea treatment and preventative, and dogs receive heartworm preventative on intake. ● Lost pets are held at our facilities for a time that is determined by each city. The time ranges from three to ten days. During this time, lost pets are routinely checked against missing pet reports filed by concerned owners. In addition, they are evaluated for general health and temperament. ● At the end of the required holding time, lost pets are processed for adoption. This includes a medical evaluation, spay or neuter surgery if not already altered, rabies vaccine, and behavior evaluation. Some animals may require or benefit from time with a foster family (see Foster Program on page 22) before being placed on the Adoption floor. If an animal is deemed not an adoption candidate due to low quality of life with grim prognosis (medically or behaviorally) or unsafe to place in the public, he or she will be humanely euthanized. ● Pets which are no longer able to be cared for by their owners are accepted on a space available basis. ● Euthanasia is always an emotional topic of discussion, and we are always willing to discuss an individual case with you. Any questions or concerns regarding euthanasia should be brought directly to the Volunteer Managers and not discussed with other volunteers or team members. Adoption Procedures ●
All animals are spayed or neutered prior to adoption. Exceptions are made only for medical reasons. ● Pets determined to be in good health and of sound temperament are housed in the Merriam Pet Adoption Center or Adoptions areas of the Independence campus. ● All adoptions go through a conversational interview process and must be approved by Adoptions Staff. The adoption survey gives a profile of prospective adopters’ needs and expectations. ● While the majority of applications are approved for adoptions, the following are examples of placements that are unacceptable to Great Plains SPCA: ○ Pets that will be permitted to run loose ○ Pets used for fighting, exploitation, or consumption ○ Pets used exclusively for utility purposes such as attack dogs, guard dogs or mousers (cats)
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○ Pets who will live exclusively outdoors, though exceptions can be made and must
be approved by management ○ Pets who have been determined to be predominantly of a breed banned by the prospective adopter’s city or landlord Trained Adoptions Counselors, either staff or volunteer, will approve or deny adoptions in the best interest of the animal. They may redirect prospective adopters toward a more appropriate match in the event of unrealistic expectations or other concerns.
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Appendix E Foster Program At Great Plains SPCA, the foster care program is comprised of a very special group of volunteers who lovingly open their homes to pets in need. Foster parents care for pets with special needs that are better met in a home environment rather than the shelter. Most pets that we place in foster care are considered adoptable; they just need a little help getting there. This may mean a variety of things including: ● Mom is expecting or nursing a litter of puppies or kittens ● Puppies or kittens with no mom that need hand feeding ● Weaned puppies or kittens that are too young to be adopted ● Dogs or cats that are very shy and need special socializing ● Animals recovering from injury or illness ● Animals awaiting or recovering from surgery ● Any number of other situations that may occur! Foster parents can also be called on in certain situations when the main area of Great Plains SPCA is full and there is an emergency. The length of time involved in foster varies from case to case. Some pets will only need to be in a home for a few days. Young kittens or puppies may need a couple months in foster care. In most cases, you will bring your foster pet back to the shelter for adoption. There are many variables that affect every foster care case. The team at Great Plains SPCA, and the network of other foster parents you are joining, is here to help whenever you need it. If you are interested in joining our foster network please complete a Foster Application, found on our website.
Practical Requirements of Fostering Foster parents provide a greatly needed service for Great Plains SPCA. There is always a need for more families willing to help animals in need. The pets that go into foster care are the ones that need the most assistance. In most cases, going into foster care saves the life of the pet or pets in question. Fostering pets can be a very rewarding experience, but it takes a special kind of person to do it. Great Plains SPCA reserves the right to place foster pets in the best foster home at their discretion for the specific case in question. All foster parents must: ● Be 18 years of age or older. ● All owned pets must be altered, vaccinated and compatible with foster pets. ● Either own their own home or have a rental lease allowing pets. Most landlords will require you to pay all pet deposits and pet rent. ● If a Kansas resident, receive a state shelter license ($10 filing fee). ● Provide a safe, loving and stable environment for the foster pet(s).
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●
Commit to the time needed for the specific foster case in question. Additionally, you must be able to set time aside each day for socialization, training and for interactive play and exercise. ● Be able to administer prescribed medication and/or treatment as directed. ● Be willing to learn! Experience with animal behavioral or medical issues is a plus but is by no means required. Great Plains SPCA is prepared to equip you with the knowledge and tools necessary for any foster case we ask you to take. ● Be able to transport your foster pet to and from Great Plains SPCA for all medical needs, including routine vaccinations, during business hours as requested or required. Foster Parents are also strongly encouraged to attend the Foster Parent Prep Course, Foster 101.
Emotional Requirements of Fostering Aside from the practical requirements, there is also a big emotional part to being a foster parent. In nearly every situation, you will have to say goodbye to your foster at some point. In the happiest situation, they will be finding their lifelong caring home. You will always be able to help another pet by fostering again.
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Appendix F Euthanasia Hold The decision to euthanize an animal is never taken lightly and always involves more than one member of leadership. Great Plains SPCA’s President and CEO must approve all euthanasia decisions. This difficult decision is only made in the best interest of the animal. Once a decision is made, action will be taken quickly – the purpose is to end and prevent further suffering, and we will not prolong it unnecessarily. Any volunteer or staff member may place or ask to have placed in PetPoint a hold on an animal called “No Euthanasia.” • Hold must have volunteer/staff name and phone number. Example: “Please contact Rachel Bracken if euthanasia is ever considered. 913-808-3397” • If euthanasia is considered, staff will contact the individual. That person will have the following choices (the first two may or may not be appropriate for an individual case; again, we will make that decision in the best interest of the animal): • Adopt the animal • Foster the animal with the understanding that euthanasia may be the end result • Be present for the euthanasia • Say good-bye • If an animal is in a medical emergency and needs to be euthanized immediately, individuals with “No Euth” holds will be notified as soon as possible.
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Animal Welfare Contact List The Humane Society of Greater Kansas City 5545 Parallel PKWY, Kansas City, KS, 66202 (913)596-1000 The Lawrence Humane Society 1605 E 119th St, Lawrence, KS, 66044 (785)843-6835 KCK Animal Shelter 3301 Park Dr, Kansas City, KS, 66211 (913)321-1445 Heart of America Humane Society P.O. Box 12703 Overland Park, KS, 66282 1(800)384-3143 Prairie Paws 3173 Highway 68, Ottawa, KS, 66067 (785)242-2967 Geary Co. Animal Shelter 2424 N. Jackson St, Junction City, KS, 66046 (785)238-1359 T. Russell Reitz Animal Shelter 605 Levee Dr, Manhattan, KS,66502 (785)587-2783 Helping Hands Humane Society 5720 SW 21st, Topeka, KS, 66604 (785)233-7325 Humane Society High Plains 2050 Old Hwy 40, Hays, KS (785)625-5252 Friends of Parkville 1356 Mo-9, Kansas City, MO, 64152 (816)587-0918 A.W.O.L. Humane Society 116 S. 23, Independence, MO, 67301 (620)331-7931 GPSPCA Independence Location 21001 E. MO 78 HWY, Independence, MO, 64057 (913)808-3372 Wayside Waifs 3901 Martha Truman Rd, Kansas City, MO, 64137 (816)761-8151 Kansas City Pet Project 4400 Raytown Rd, Kansas City, MO, 64129 (816)513-9821 Olathe Animal Control Shelter 505 East Sunvale Dr., Olathe, KS, (913) 971-6362 H.E.L.P Humane Society 31 | P a g e
511 Main St, Belton, MO, 64012 (816)318-4357 Gladstone Animal Shelter 4000 NE 67 St, Gladstone, MO, 64118 (816)436-1810 Animal Control Bonner Springs (913)422-7676 Gardner (913)856-7312 Fairway (913)782-0720 KCMO (816)513-9821 Lake Quivira (913)787-2625 Lawrence (785)843-6835 Leawood (913)642-5555 Lenexa (913)477-7385 Merriam (913)322-5560 Mission (913)782-0720 Overland Park (913)895-6300 Olathe (913)971-6362 Parks Department (913)438-7275 Prairie Village (913)381-6464 Roeland Park (913)782-0720 Shawnee (913)631-2150 Westwood (913)782-0720 Wyandotte (913)321-1445 General Rescue Groups Unleashed Pet Rescue 5918 Broadmoor St, Mission, KS, 66202 (913)831-7387 Animal’s Best Friends 2302 Chrysler Ave, Independence, MO, 64051 (816)254-8664 Second Chance P.O. Box 964, Smithville, MO, 64089 (913)814-7471 Safe Harbor Prison Dog program (913)634-5955 LL Dog Rescue (816)926-0241 T.A.R.A.’s Dream www.tarasdream.org
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Emergency Veterinary Clinic Blue Pearl 11950 W. 110 St, Overland Park, KS, 66212 (913)642-9563 Blue Pearl 139 NE 91 St, Kansas City, MO 64155, (816)759-5016 Mission Med Vet 5914 Johnson Drive, Mission, KS, 66202 (913)722-5566 Animal Emergency Center 8141 N Oak Traffic way, Kansas City, MO 64118 (816)455-5430
Cat Specific Rescues Animal In Need Cat Adoptions 2520 NW Vivion Rd, Riverside, MO, 64151 Kitty City 12800 Santa Fe Trail Dr, Lenexa, KS, 66215 (913)971-0101 Assisi Safe Haven for Cats (913)727-2874 Purrrfect Pets (913)652-6677 KC Siamese Rescue (816)331-9700 Cat Association of Topeka (785)272-4735 Diva pets (816)589-6994 Greycat Adoptions (816)517-2901
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Release and Waiver of Liability This Release and Waiver of Liability (the "Release") executed on___________(DATE), by _________________________(the "Volunteer") in favor of Great Plains SPCA, their directors, officers, employees, and agents (collectively "Great Plains SPCA"). The Volunteer or the parent/guardian of the participant hereby freely, voluntarily, and without duress executes the Release under the following terms: RELEASE AND WAIVER. Volunteer or the parent/guardian does hereby release and forever discharge and hold harmless Great Plains SPCA and its successors and assigns from any and all liability, claims, and demands of whatever kind or nature either in law or in equity, which arise or may hereafter arise from Volunteer's Activities with Great Plains SPCA. Volunteer understands that this Release discharges Great Plains SPCA from any liability or claim that the volunteer may have against Great Plains SPCA with respect to any bodily injury, personal injury, illness, death, or property damage that may result from Volunteer's activities with Great Plains SPCA, whether caused by negligence of Great Plains SPCA, or its officers, directors, employees, or agents or otherwise. Volunteer also understands that Great Plains SPCA does not assume any responsibility for or obligation to provide financial assistance or other assistance, including but not limited to medical, health or disability insurance in the event of injury or illness. MEDICAL TREATMENT. Volunteer or the parent/guardian of the participant does hereby release and forever discharge Great Plains SPCA from any claim whatsoever which arises or may hereafter arise on account of any first aid, treatment, or service rendered in connection with the Volunteer's Activities with Great Plains SPCA. ASSUMPTION OF THE RISK. The Volunteer or the parent/guardian of the participant understands the Activities include work that may be hazardous to the Volunteer, including, but not limited to dog and/or cat handling, lifting heavy objects, bending, standing for extended periods of time, exposure to cleaning chemicals and transportation to and from off-site events. Volunteer hereby expressly and specifically assumes the risk of injury or harm in the Activities and releases Great Plains SPCA from all liability for injury, illness, death, or property damage resulting from the Activities on or offsite Great Plains SPCA property. INSURANCE. The Volunteer or the parent/guardian of the participant understands that, except as otherwise agreed to by Great Plains SPCA in writing; Great Plains SPCA does not carry or maintain health, medical, or disability insurance coverage for any Volunteer. Each Volunteer is expected and encouraged to obtain his or her own medical or health insurance coverage. OTHER. Volunteer or the parent/guardian of the participant expressly agrees that this Release is intended to be as broad and inclusive as permitted by laws of the State of Missouri and Kansas, and that this Release shall be governed by and interpreted in accordance with the laws of the State of Missouri and Kansas. Volunteer agrees that in the event that any clause or provision of the Release shall be held to be invalid by any court of competent jurisdiction, the invalidity of such clause or provision shall not otherwise affect the remaining provisions of this Release which shall continue to be enforceable. I ACKNOWLEDGE THAT I HAVE READ AND FULLY UNDERSTAND THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THE FORGOING VOLUNTEER AGREEMENT AND VOLUNTEER RELEASE AND WAIVER OF LIABILITY AND THAT I WILL COMPLY WITH THE SAME. I ACKNOWLEDGE THAT I HAVE RECEIVED A Great Plains SPCA VOLUNTEER MANUAL AND I AGREE TO FOLLOW THE POLICIES, PROCEDURES, AND CODE OF CONDUCT OUTLINED WITHIN. I UNDERSTAND THAT BY NOT FOLLOWING THE POLICIES, PROCEDURES, AND CODE OF CONDUCT, I MAY BE SUBJECT TO IMMEDIATE TERMINATION. Volunteer Signature ________________________________ Date ____________ Volunteer Printed Name__________________________________ Parent/ Guardian Signature (For Volunteers under 18 years of age) ______________________________ Street Address ______________________ City_________________ State _____Zip code____________ Phone Number __________________________Email_________________________________________
