paws for our cause - hsotc

Volunteer Handbook Volunteer Handbook

Paws for our CauseVolunteer Orientation

HandbookThis handbook belongs to:

10040 Victoria Way • P. O. Box 830 • Jamestown CA 95327209-984-5489 • Fax 209-984-1259 • hsotc.org

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A VOLUNTEER……is a person who is a light to others, giving witness in a mixed-up age, doing well and willingly the tasks at hand…namely, being aware of another’s needs and doing something about it.…is a person who remembers to do the thing to make other people happy, who takes the loneliness out of the alone by talking to them, who is concerned when others are unconcerned, who has the courage to be a prophet and to say the things that have to be said for the good of the all.…is a person whose charity is fidelity, who is faithful in an unfaithful world, grateful in an ungrateful world, giving when all about are grasping, listening when others need to tell about their fears and problems.

Remember, there is no “I” in team, yet we sure are glad there is “U” in volunteer! And for that we simply say…Thank You!

The Humane Society of Tuolumne County’s charter is to find homes for abandoned, abused, and unwanted animals, promote humane education, and maintain a clean and safe environment for homeless animals awaiting adoption.

Act as a member of the HSOTC team when working with other volunteers and HSOTC staff.

Follow the position description. Be prompt and reliable in reporting for work and follow through on all

commitments. Record volunteer work hours. Notify HSOTC staff as soon as possible if unable to work a scheduled shift

due to illness or unexpected reason. Dress in an appropriate manner for the position assigned. Communicate with the staff to resolve any problems or concerns. Handle animals in a safe and humane manner.

Volunteers may expect to… Work at a position that is worthwhile and challenging, with freedom to use

existing skills and/or develop new ones. Receive a position description that clearly defines roles and responsibilities. Receive orientation and training as well as sufficient, ongoing training with

clear and specific directions from the HSOTC. Be an important part of the HSOTC team and be recognized for one’s

accomplishments. Welcome periodic feedback. Receive support from the HSOTC team to resolve conflicts between the

volunteer and a staff member. Be advised of opportunities to change his/her placement, if desired. Be able to work in more than one department at a time if the position

responsibilities in both departments can be fulfilled.

Other Ways yOu Can helpIn addition to volunteering, you can help the homeless animals by…

Ensuring that your own pets are spayed or neutered. Adopting an animal. Promoting and attending fundraising events. Donating needed animal care items. Making a tax-deductible donation as a tribute or memorial to a loved one or pet.

Becoming a corporate sponsor for an event. Encouraging your employer to implement a matching contribution program. Remembering the HSOTC in your estate planning.


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Prerequisites/Necessary Skills:1. Evaluate donated items and separate saleable items by category2. Receive and acknowledge incoming donations3. Act as a liaison between customers and the store4. Provide a safe environment by maintaining a clean and organized sorting

station5. Remain informed of current store inventory levels

PurrrfEcT BargaiNS PriciNg SPEcialiSTValue of this position: Assist in the merchandising and sale of items donated to our Purrrfect Bargains Thrift Boutique for the monetary benefit of the animals at the HSOTC. Act as an ambassador by promoting HSOTC programs and services. Volunteer should be a team player and also enjoy volunteering independently. Excellent customer service skills and this position is perfect for an individual who enjoys recycled treasures and loves animals.Time commitment: FlexibleFrequency of commitment: Flexible depending on store hoursExpected time on day of activity: Variable, depending on activityPrerequisites/Necessary Skills:1. Assess quality and price items for sale2. Maintain clean, safe pricing station3. Restock items as needed4. Adhere to pricing procedures and use appropriate supplies5. Clean and test merchandise as directed6. Clean station at end of volunteer shift

cOurT OrdErEd cOmmuNiTy SErVicEThe HSOTC provides opportunities for individuals who are over the age of 18 that have been court ordered to perform community service. Court-ordered community service volunteers will not work directly with the animals but may assist with other maintenance tasks and projects as available.

VOluNTEEriSmVolunteers are expected to…

Consider volunteer work a serious professional commitment and view the position as valid and important.

Represent the HSOTC in an appropriate and responsible manner at all times.

Be aware of and abide by the policies and procedures of the HSOTC. Provide constructive feedback on how we can improve the HSOTC. Attend a volunteer orientation meeting and any training sessions as

scheduled and undertake continuing education, when provided, in order to maintain and enhance competence in assigned tasks.


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WelCOmeWelcome to the Humane Society of Tuolumne County’s (HSOTC) Volunteer Program! Being a volunteer is extremely rewarding, educational, exciting and fun. You can have a huge impact on the lives of the homeless animals that enter our shelter every day. A purr from a shelter cat or a wagging tail from a homeless dog will touch your heart and bring you back for more. It’s a rewarding experience knowing that you can make a difference in the lives of our four legged residents at the HSOTC.

Because of volunteers like you, dogs are walked and cats are cuddled as they await their forever homes through adoption. And, if you’d rather volunteer for tasks that do not directly involve animals, that’s great too! We always need help with clerical duties, fundraising, special events and projects. No task is ever too small or in some cases, too big, for that matter!

We want to thank you for choosing to participate in our program. As a volunteer, you are a valuable asset to our organization and to the many animals in our care.

This handbook has been prepared for you as a reference. It contains information regarding volunteer responsibilities, procedures that need to be followed, and ideas on how to make your volunteer time with us safe, fun and beneficial to all.

“The heart of a volunteer is not measured in size, but by the depth of the commitment to make a difference in the lives of homeless animals.”

PurrrfEcT BargaiNS SalES aSSiSTaNTValue of this position: HSOTC Purrrfect Bargains Thrift Boutique volunteers provide an opportunity to become a team player that’s familiar with wearing many hats. If you’re a people person with excellent customer service skills and enjoy sorting and stocking merchandise or working on displays, you can add to the thrift stores success.

Time commitment: Flexible

Frequency of commitment: Flexible depending on store hours

Expected time on day of activity: Variable, depending on activity

Prerequisites/Necessary Skills:

1. Ability to work with culturally diverse community and good customer service skills

PurrrfEcT BargaiNS diSPlay/STagiNg aSSiSTaNTValue of this position: Assist in the merchandise presentation of items donated to the Purrrfect Bargains Thrift Boutique for the monetary benefit of the animals at the HSOTC. Provide client service through positive interactions with customers. Able to lift and carry heavy objects helpful but not required. Excellent customer service skills a plus and decorating or display experience helpful. Time commitment: FlexibleFrequency of commitment: Flexible depending on store hoursExpected time on day of activity: Variable, depending on activityPrerequisites/Necessary Skills:1. Creatively display merchandise to provide a pleasant shopping environment

and promote store sales2. Transfer items from processing center the store floor3. Be aware of merchandise stocking levels in all departments

PurrrfEcT BargaiNS mErcHaNdiSE SOrTErValue of this position: Assist in the merchandising and sale of items donated to the Purrrfect Bargains Thrift Boutique for the monetary benefit of the animals at the HSOTC. Energetic individuals will enjoy this volunteer position and should be able to lift and carry heavy objects. This volunteer position is perfect for an individual who enjoys recycled treasures and loves animals. Time commitment: FlexibleFrequency of commitment: Flexible depending on store hoursExpected time on day of activity: Variable, depending on activity


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missiOn statementThe Tuolumne County Humane Society was incorporated on December 12, 1947 and effective February 19, 1998 became known as the Humane Society of Tuolumne County.

The objectives of the HSOTC are as follows:

1. To abide by existing and future laws of the United States and the State of California for the prevention of cruelty to and the protection of all domestic animals.

2. To establish and maintain an animal shelter for the retention and care of owner-released animals; to employ veterinarians in the medical treatment of animals and to make available a birth control program through a county-wide spay/neutering program.

3. To engage and promote public education programs; to create public humane sentiment toward all animals; to train the general public in the proper nutrition and general care of animals. Such programs shall include information materials and publications. The HSOTC will utilize all available forms of media.

abOut the hsOtCThe HSOTC, a 501(c)3 non-profit no-kill, limited intake shelter, has been facilitating adoptions for companion animals since 1947. The HSOTC receives funding only in the form of donations and fundraising efforts. We receive no government funding nor are we associated with the Humane Society of the United States. The shelter has consistently found homes for an average of 500 cats and dogs per year. Our staff and dedicated volunteers work tirelessly to care for these animals, providing them with the second chance that they so greatly deserve. Providing food, shelter, exercise, medical care, vaccinations and love until our residents find their forever home offers extremely rewarding work.

The HSOTC also has programs available that assist low-income individuals and families with the financial hardship of spaying or neutering their pets. In addition, the HSOTC provides free humane education, classes and presentations to teach individuals and families how to become more responsible pet owners and posses safety knowledge when it comes to animals.

hsOtC DesignatiOnThe HSOTC is a no-kill, limited intake shelter. Millions of dogs, cats and other domestic animals are taken to animal shelters annually because they are unwanted, lost or abandoned. It is incredibly difficult for animal shelters to create life-saving options without community support.

Prerequisites/Necessary Skills:1. Must be 18 years and older 2. Genuine concern for the welfare of animals3. Able to work independently and follow instructions

markETiNg aSSiSTaNT Value of this position: The marketing assistant volunteer will work in concert with the marketing and fundraising staff to help promote the HSOTC through various marketing mediums including special events, distribution of event flyers, stocking and display of HSOTC promotional materials at local veterinary offices, pet supply stores, groomers and the like. Securing supplies as needed and upon the request of shelter personnel. Time commitment: Two hours or more per weekFrequency of commitment: Approximately eight hours per monthExpected time on day of activity: Varies depending on the projectPrerequisites/Necessary Skills:1. Genuine concern for the welfare of animals2. Good communication and computer skills a must3. Able to work independently and follow instructions4. Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel back and forth in your

personal vehicle

POST adOPTiON fOllOw-uP Value of this position: To help with the HSOTC post adoption follow-up, volunteers need to be an enthusiastic and compassionate person to make contact with adopters once they have taken their adopted pet home. Following up is important to determine if the animal’s behavior, health and overall character match their new forever home. Time commitment: Two hours or more per weekFrequency of commitment: Approximately eight hours per monthExpected time on day of activity: Minimum two hours per visitPrerequisites/Necessary Skills:1. Genuine concern for the welfare of animals2. Must be enthusiastic and compassionate3. Good communication and computer skills needed as contact is made via

telephone and/or e-mail4. Able to work independently and follow instructions


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is animal COntrOl anD the hsOtC the same?The HSOTC is not the same as Animal Control, we are two very distinct agencies. Animal Control is a Tuolumne County government agency responsible for enforcing state law pertaining to animal care and control. It has the authority to investigate suspected or reported acts of animal cruelty or neglect, animals causing a nuisance, and rabies tags/license violations. Officers may take possession of dangerous animals as well as pets who have been abandoned or who are lost or unwanted.

hOurs Of OperatiOnsThe HSOTC shelter office is normally open from 9:00AM to 3:00PM, Monday through Saturday. The Purrrfect Bargains Thrift Boutique is normally open from 9:30AM to 5:00PM Monday through Friday and Saturday 9:00AM to 4:00PM. Both facilities are closed to the public on Sunday.

serviCes/prOgrams OffereDBelow is a list of services we provide to the public along with the required fees.

adoptions

The HSOTC has many animals available for adoption. We strive to shelter each animal until a new forever home is found. We are committed to achieving 100% placement of adoptable animals. The dog and cat adoption fees are as follows:

Cats - adult $55.00

Kittens $70.00 ($30 adoption fee; $40 spay/neuter voucher)

Dogs - 30 lbs. and under $140.00

Dogs - 31 lbs and over $100.00

Puppies $140.00 ($100 adoption; $40 spay/neuter voucher)

Senior Animals - Six (6) years or older, fees are $75.00 for an altered dog and $45.00 for an altered cat.

There is a discount for 60 years and older of $10 towards the adoption fee of any animal.

graNT wriTErValue of this position: Working in tandem with HSOTC management and Board of Directors, the grand writer works to help develop and research grant opportunities and complete the grant application process.

Time commitment: Minimum four month commitment

Frequency of commitment: Approximately 12 – 24 hours per monthExpected time on day of activity: Flexible since work can be completed at home in most instancesPrerequisites/Necessary Skills:1. Background in business, grant and technical writing skills2. Ability to work independently and familiarity with basic computer programs

a must3. General knowledge of standard business practices, grant prerequisites and

ability to follow instructions4. Ability to understand a variety of departmental goals and operational

procedures and research where additional information may be required5. Good communication skills and ability to work with a variety of individuals

grEETEr/TElEPHONE OPEraTOr Value of this position: HSOTC’s greeter/telephone operator is stationed at the front desk/lobby area, greeting customers, explaining adoption procedures, handing out adoption forms and directing telephone calls accordingly. Time commitment: Minimum six month commitmentFrequency of commitment: Minimum three hours per dayExpected time on day of activity: Minimum three hours per dayPrerequisites/Necessary Skills:1. Initial training on how to answer the telephone and general information

about the HSOTC to enable greeter/telephone operator to direct the calls in the most efficient manner possible

2. Comfortable greeting shelter customers and talking with them in person and on the telephone

3. Able to work independently and follow instructions

maiNTENaNcE SPEcialiSTValue of this position: Must be comfortable working with a little dust and dirt. Volunteers in this position do not work directly with the animals but assist in cleaning, wiping down windows and other minor maintenance projects as assigned by the Operations Director. Time commitment: Two–four hours per week, Monday-FridayFrequency of commitment: Approximately 8–12 hours per monthExpected time on day of activity: Between 8:00 AM–3:00 PM


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Surrenders

We accept healthy, owner-surrendered animals and at times, animals from Animal Control. If the pet is up-to-date with all its vaccinations, spayed/neutered, then the surrender fee is $50 for dogs and $25 for cats. If the pet is not altered or current on its vaccinations, then a fee of $45.00 for the spay/neuter procedure plus the surrender fee is required. At times we get litters of puppies and kittens where the owner must prove that the mother has been altered (documented proof required) and each puppy is $15 and each kitten is $10.

If a pet that has been adopted from us is returned after 30 days from the date of adoption, all adoption fees are non-refundable. If the animal is returned after 45 days from the date of adoption, a surrender fee may apply as well.

Paw Prints in Heaven crematory Services

The HSOTC has its own crematory on-site and performs pet cremations for the public’s pets as well as veterinary clinics. We offer two pet cremation services including:

individual cremation

Our crematorium allows us to complete the process while safeguarding the identity of the pet’s remains. All animals, for individual cremation, are kept separate and the equipment used is such that we can confidently guarantee the correct ashes are returned to the owner.

community (communal) cremation

This is an economic option for pet owners and still affords the pet a dignified disposition. With community cremation it is impossible to get the ashes back of the pet without being mixed in with those of other pets. Since community cremation is used for final disposal, the cremation process is accomplished at the HSOTC’s discretion.

crematory costs

Costs for these services vary dependant on the weight of the animal and the cremation option selected.

CvnC pets anD WOmen’s shelter prOgram (paWs)Many times adults in crisis are temporarily unable to care for their pets. The PAWS program enables victims of domestic violence, housed through the efforts of the Center for a Non-violent Community (CNVC), to leave their abusive households without leaving their pets behind. Through this program, low cost or free animal housing is available to those in transitional living to ensure that their pets are cared for.

Prerequisites/Necessary Skills:1. Enjoys working directly with our dogs and

giving them plenty of love while awaiting their forever families

2. Must be 16 years and older

dOg walkEr/SOcializEr Value of this position: HSOTC dogs are taken out of their kennels to go for walks several times a day. This is a good time to “socialize” with the dogs, by either taking them on long walks and/or work on manners and tricks. Time commitment: Minimum three month commitmentFrequency of commitment: Minimum eight hours per monthExpected time on day of activity: Minimum two hours per visitPrerequisites/Necessary Skills:1. Kennel staff will determine what dogs each walker are best suited for. There

may be restrictions as to the size, weight and temperament of the dogs each walker is assigned

2. Walkers must be comfortable interacting with dogs they are assigned3. Educated in the use of slip collars; easy walk harness and gentle leader4. Must be 16 years and older

facEBOOk aNd TwiTTEr PagES cOOrdiNaTOrValue of this position: The Facebook and Twitter pages coordinator creates and updates Facebook and Twitter pages for the HSOTC while being creative in detailed ways to entice the general public to help support the individual programs of the HSOTC. Time commitment: Minimum six month commitmentFrequency of commitment: Minimum eight hours per monthExpected time on day of activity: Flexible since work can be done from home or a place of your choosingPrerequisites/Necessary Skills:

1. Excellent working knowledge of Facebook, Twitter and basic HTML web language a plus

2. Ability to navigate the Internet in an efficient manner3. Strong communication skills both written and verbal4. Self-starter, ability to work independently, be organized, disciplined and

follow directions


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fOster Care prOgramOur foster care program provides a temporary home for HSOTC kittens, puppies, dogs and cats in need. The length of fostering can vary from a few days to several months depending on the amount of care or behavioral modification needed. The rewards of being a foster parent are many from offering an animal a second chance to the added benefit of receiving the love and attention right back from the animal you nurture.

humane eDuCatiOn prOgramsEducating our community about homeless animals, solutions to pet overpopulation, respect for animals and responsible pet care is an ongoing project for the HSOTC. The HSOTC provides on-site classroom presentations, tours of our facility, as well as presentations for special community and civic events, and numerous local organizations.

paWs-a-While neWsletterWe publish a Paws-A-While newsletter about events and accomplishments at the HSOTC in both print and electronic format. Our members receive a copy and additional copies are available at the shelter and our Purrrfect Bargains Thrift Boutique.

fOr the lOve Of animals annual CalenDarDon’t miss out on your chance to guarantee your animal companion a spot in the HSOTC Annual Pet Calendar competition featuring “Pet Pin-ups of the Month.” All entries are blind-judged by the HSOTC Board of Directors and all entrants are included throughout the pages of the calendar. Entrants and HSOTC members receive a free calendar with additional copies available for sale at our shelter and Purrrfect Bargains Thrift Boutique.

purrrfeCt bargains thrift bOutiqueOur Purrrfect Bargains Thrift Boutique, featuring new and gently used merchandise, is located in East Sonora at 14317 Mono Way, Suites C - F. Purrrfect Bargains is the only local thrift that exclusively supports the animals at the HSOTC.

Expected time on day of activity: Minimum two hours per visitPrerequisites/Necessary Skills:1. Excited to be working directly with our cats and giving them plenty of love

while awaiting their forever families2. Must be 14 years and older

cOmmuNiTy/OuTrEacH EVENTS Value of this position: Community event volunteers set up and staff informational tables at offsite events in a variety of settings. When a request comes up, we will ask you if you’re available to help.Time commitment: Minimum six month commitmentFrequency of commitment: On callExpected time on day of activity: Variable, depending on event, may require weekend availability

Prerequisites/Necessary Skills:1. Attend one event with an experienced community events volunteer before

working independently2. Professional in demeanor with excellent customer service skills3. Ability to work with the public answering their questions4. Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel back and forth to events in

your personal vehicle

dEVElOPmENT aSSiSTaNTValue of this position: Development assistant volunteers help by printing copies, filing, stuffing envelopes, answering telephones and assisting in other activities. Time commitment: FlexibleFrequency of commitment: Flexible depending on shelter’s hoursExpected time on day of activity: Variable, depending on activityPrerequisites/Necessary Skills:1. Ability to work with computers, general office equipment and good

customer service skills2. Must be 18 years and older

dOg ENricHmENTValue of this position: HSOTC dog enrichment volunteers provide essential playtime, potty breaks, training, “in-suite” maintenance and social interaction for our dogs to keep them happy and healthy during their stay. There are different levels of dog volunteers.

Time commitment: Minimum six month commitmentFrequency of commitment: Minimum eight hours per monthExpected time on day of activity: Minimum two hours per visit


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speCial events/funDraisersWe offer and/or participate in a number of community events each year. Some are listed below and it takes many people to help build a successful event. If you can help prepare and plan, bake, or spend time at any of these events, we’d appreciate your help!

• Spring Brunch

• Spay & Neuter Bake Sales

• Shelter Annual Rummage Sale - May

• Annual BBQ

• Special Senior Project Events

• …and more!

WebsiteVisit our website at hsotc.org for information on pets for adoption, services, and events.

“Our perfect companions never have fewer than four feet.” - Colette

vOlunteerism guiDelinesThis orientation handbook represents a summary of some of the more important guidelines. It is our desire that these guidelines and general rules foster a better environment while the volunteer relationship exists. The HSOTC, however, retains the sole right in its business judgment to add, modify, suspend, interpret, or cancel in whole or in part at any time these guidelines and procedures outlined in this handbook or any other document. No oral statements or representations can, in any way, change or alter the provision of this handbook.

It is impossible for this handbook to be all inclusive. If you have a question about a particular provision or about the policies and procedures governing volunteerism within this organization (Policies #42 & #43) or regarding a situation not mentioned in this handbook, please contact the HSOTC Volunteer Coordinator or shelter Operations Director.

All volunteers, prior to volunteering, must schedule an interview (in person or via telephone) with the Volunteer Coordinator, to find the best fit for you!

iso or isolation – Areas where ill animals or animals that have just been surrendered are kept separate from the rest of the general animal populationkennel – Area that houses our adoptable canine residentskennel card – Information about an animal that enters the shelterkennel cough – Contagious airborne virus easily spread among dogsNeuter – Castration, the surgical removal of the testicles of a male animalParvo – A very contagious and often deadly virus that dogs are susceptible to; all dogs with Parvo or with the symptoms of Parvo must be isolated from other animals to prevent the spreading of the virus.Paws-a-while – Official HSOTC newsletterPSa – Public service announcementPurrrfect Bargains Thrift Boutique – The only local thrift store that exclusively supports the HSOTCShelter management – Refers to HSOTC staff in supervisory, management or director positions Spayed – Ovariohysterectomy of a female animal to prevent reproductionSpring Brunch – Annual HSOTC spring fundraising event Temperament Evaluation – Evaluating an animal for its adoptability uri – Upper respiratory infection that affects catsVolunteers – People who donate their time and skills to the HSOTC

vOlunteer JObs & DesCriptiOnsVolunteer job descriptions with qualifications, training requirements and time commitments are listed below.

Whether you can donate one two-hour shift per week or give up six – eight hours on a Saturday, you are helping the animals at our shelter.

Please look over the descriptions, find the ones that pique your interest and let the Volunteer Coordinator know. All positions require the completion of a general volunteer orientation, a session with a volunteer mentor or shelter staff and you must have a current tetanus vaccination.

caT ENricHmENTValue of this position: HSOTC cat enrichment volunteers provide essential playtime, brushing, TLC, “apartment” maintenance, social interaction, and even training for our shelter cats to keep them happy and healthy during their stay. Time commitment: Minimum six month commitmentFrequency of commitment: Minimum eight hours per month


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Overview

All volunteers must commit to volunteering a minimum of two hours of service per week. This will help the HSOTC by providing much needed assistance and it will help you stay up-to-date and gain more knowledge about the HSOTC. In addition, volunteers must be at least 14 years of age to work and all must have a valid work permit. Cat cuddlers must be at least 14 years of age and have adult supervision. Dog walkers must be at least 16 years of age. Any volunteers under the age of 14 must have parental supervision at all times for all volunteer work completed.

attendance

Although you are not being financially compensated for your services as a volunteer, you are expected to take the responsibility seriously and use the same attendance guidelines as you would for a paid position. Depending on the position you will be volunteering for, you may or may not have to inform us when you wish to volunteer. Such positions involving a schedule time may include yet are not limited to, events, front desk assistance, cattery and kennel assistants. Volunteers are expected to complete their scheduled shifts or notify the respective HSOTC staff member, as soon as possible, if the shift will be missed. In addition, volunteers are expected to notify the HSOTC Volunteer Coordinator if they wish to terminate their position.

confidentiality

As a volunteer of the HSOTC, you may have access to confidential information, which is not generally known to or accessible by the public. Disclosure of confidential information might seriously damage the HSOTC, our clients and staff, and therefore, will not be tolerated. This non-disclosure applies during and after your volunteer time with the HSOTC. Any copying, reproducing or distributing of confidential information in any manner must be authorized by management. Confidential information remains the property of the HSOTC and must be returned to the HSOTC on demand. Questions concerning whether information is confidential should be directed to the Volunteer Coordinator.

conflict resolution

The HSOTC will attempt to resolve differences of opinion and disagreements as informally as possible. It is our intent to create a positive climate in which integrity, trust and respect are evident.

Our conflict resolution procedure is as follows:

1. Every effort should be made to resolve conflicts between involved parties directly.

does the HSOTc work with other rescue groups?

Yes, we have established relationships with local and out-of-area as well as specific breed organizations to ensure that our animals have the best opportunity for adoption.

what is a temperament test?

Many shelters rely on temperament tests to evaluate animal behavior and safety. Trained staff spend time interacting with the dog to determine what sort of personality it has, to better match the dog with a prospective home and ultimately reducing the number of adoption returns due to conflicts with family members or other pets.

glOssary Of termsadoptable – A friendly, healthy animal able to adapt to the shelter environment and be placed into a typical homealtered – Refers to either the neuter of a male or the spay of a female animalannual BBQ – Annual fundraising eventBoard of directors – Individuals elected by the HSOTC membership to manage, oversee and assume overall responsibility for the HSOTCcarrier/crate – Temporary, portable container used to transport animalscat Trap – Humane trap used for catching a cat or other small animalcattery – Area that houses our adoptable feline residentsclient – Any person who uses any services of the HSOTCdevelopment – Refers to fundraising and donor relationsdHlPP – Canine vaccine administered to all shelter dogs – Distemper, Hepatitis, Leptosporosis, Parvovirus, and Parainfluenzadonor – Anyone who contributes money, service or in-kind goods to the HSOTCEuthanasia – Derives from two Greek words – Eu = good, Thanos = death, meaning the intentional causing of a painless and easy deathferal cat – An unsocialized cat unable to be safely handled or placed into a typical homefoster care – Individualized, in-home care for special needs animals or when the shelter population reaches its maximum levelsfVrcP – Feline vaccine administered to all shelter cats: Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, and Panleukopeniaguardian – Owner or keeper of an animal; should be used interchangeably with “owner”Hold – Reserving an adoptable animal for a client for a set period of time and for a specific purpose


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2. If the conflict is still unresolved the volunteer should report the problem to the Volunteer Coordinator within 10 days of the incident. At that time a meeting will be scheduled if the issue can not be immediately resolved by the Volunteer Coordinator. The volunteer should present the problem in writing at that meeting.

3. If the conflict is still unresolved the volunteer must submit the problem in writing to the Operations Director. A meeting may be scheduled between the Operations Director and the volunteer and the decision of the Operations Director is final.

designated Eating areas

Food and beverages are not allowed in animal areas. Volunteers are welcome to eat and/or drink in the designated conference room kitchen area and tables that are set-up in that room.

dress

As a representative of the HSOTC, we must be conscious of our appearance, hygiene and attire to the public. It is also important to be able to function comfortably and safely with our volunteer tasks. We recommend wearing casual pants or jeans and non-skid rubber-soled shoes. For safety and modesty, the following items may not be worn while volunteering: slip on shoes (flip-flops, sandals), t-shirts with a controversial or offensive message or torn or raggedy clothing. Jewelry such as dangling earrings or other piercings, necklaces, and bracelets are also prohibited as these items can be caught by an animal’s paw causing injury or damage to you or the item.

drugs and alcohol

We are committed to a safe, healthy and productive volunteer environment free from the effects of substance abuse. Abuse of alcohol, drugs, and controlled substances impairs judgment, resulting in increased safety risks, injuries, and faulty decision-making. The HSOTC prohibits the use, sale, dispensation, manufacture, distribution, or possession of alcohol, drugs or controlled substances on company premises or worksites. Any violation of this policy will result in disciplinary action up to and including termination of your volunteer position.

friends of VolunteersVolunteers may not bring friends along for their volunteer shifts. Anyone interested in volunteering should be encouraged to fill out a volunteer application and attend a volunteer orientation meeting.

frequently askeD questiOnsIn order to best serve the public and to be effective in getting shelter animals adopted into good homes, the HSOTC asks all volunteers to become knowledgeable about our shelter animals and the basic policies and procedures of the HSOTC.

is the HSOTc a department of animal control?

No. As a 501(c)3 organization, the HSOTC is an independent non-profit agency that is not funded or controlled by any local government or national animal welfare agency.

what is the relationship between the HSOTc and animal control?

The HSOTC is the Humane Society for Tuolumne County. The county operates Animal Control to house stray animals and employs their own Animal Control Officers who enforce the animal ordinances. We work hand in hand should they have an issue with over-crowding and ask to place some of the animals into our possession. If we have room, we have been knows to assist and take some of the animals. It is very important to understand the differences between our agencies. Animal Control is run by the county and pick up strays or addresses any animal issues in the public. The Humane Society primarily takes in owner-surrendered, unwanted and abandoned animals.

How is the HSOTc funded?

Contribution from individuals, corporate support, bequests, grant applications and public appeal campaigns make up the majority of our operating budget, with secondary support from service revenue such as adoption and surrender fees and sales generated from our Purrrfect Bargains Thrift Boutique.

does the HSOTc turn animals away?

Yes, because we’re a no-kill facility. That means we are limited in the number of animals we can accept. We have waiting lists of owners wishing to surrender their pets for adoption and have an active foster care program in place.

why does the HSOTc charge for owner-surrendered animals?

Just as animal ownership is not free, there are costs associated with the relinquishment of an animal from admitting to re-homing of the animal. The fees charged help to off-set operational expenses while educating the public about the responsibility of pet guardianship and the value of our services.


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injuries and accidents

Any accidents or injuries occurring on the job must be reported to an HSOTC staff member or the Volunteer Coordinator immediately. Animal bites must be reported to the HSOTC Kennel Caretaker and the animal identified. Failure to report a bite will result in termination of your volunteer status.

media contact

The image that the HSOTC holds in our community is strongly affected by our portrayal in the media. For that reason it is extremely important that the media receives accurate and appropriate information regarding our organization. At no time should a volunteer contact or address the media without the specific consent of the HSOTC.

Nametags

Nametags are to be worn at all times so volunteers may be readily identified to the staff and public.

Parking

Our parking is limited so please allow our clients the use of the most convenient parking spaces.

Personal Belongings

We have limited space to house your personal belongings. The HSOTC is not responsible for lost or stolen articles.

representation

Volunteers are expected to represent the HSOTC in a helpful, friendly and professional manner at all times. Our existence and effectiveness is dependent upon the goodwill of the community. Our public image may be based on client contact with volunteers. For this reason, it is important for volunteers to always represent the HSOTC in a positive manner and promote the beliefs and practices of the organization.

responsibility

Volunteers are expected to handle animals kindly, with common sense and concern for both the animal’s as well as their own safety. Appropriate, safe and humane methods of handling and restraint will be taught at the HSOTC and must be used at all times.

Safety

Do not perform any duty that you do not feel comfortable with or have not been trained to do. It is extremely important that volunteers follow all safety regulations. In addition, please report any unsafe practices or conditions to the staff immediately.

Sexual Harassment

We are dedicated to maintaining an environment free from all forms of sexual harassment or intimidation. Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature will not be tolerated. Any volunteer who is subject to or aware of such harassment is expected to report it immediately to the Operations Director.

Smoking

Our objective is to provide a smoke-free working environment within our organization; therefore, smoking is strictly prohibited in all internal areas of the building. Volunteers are permitted to smoke only at the designated smoking areas outside of the building. Please be sure to dispose of cigarette butts and ashes properly. In addition, smoking is prohibited while working at volunteer events.

Training

Volunteers are required to attend a volunteer orientation meeting prior to volunteering. After the general orientation, an HSOTC staff member will go over the shelter rules and how to handle animals in a shelter environment.

Volunteer animal adoptions

Volunteers may adopt animals from the shelter. Adoption is contingent upon the volunteer meeting the HSOTC adoption guidelines and payment of all applicable fees. While we encourage you to tell your friends and neighbors about the wonderful pets we have available for adoption, we cannot “hold” a pet for anyone.

Volunteer records

Volunteer records are very important to the HSOTC. Our volunteer statistics reflect the degree to which the HSOTC involves and interacts with the community. Please remember to sign in and out on the volunteer sign-in sheet – especially if you are volunteering to complete required hours. If a letter of hours completed is needed, please inform the Volunteer Coordinator at least two weeks in advance.

The Volunteer Coordinator is continually updating records. Please notify the HSOTC of all changes of telephone numbers, mailing addresses, e-mail addresses and any other pertinent information.

paws for our cause - hsotc

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