Volunteer Guide to Walking Dogs

As of April 2006

  1. Before walking any of the dogs you must sign a volunteer application and receive orientation on the shelter's procedures, rules and regulations.


  2. You must have control of the dog you are walking at all times. If you are unsure of a dog, then ALWAYS ask kennel staff about the dog before walking it. Take the time to familiarize yourself with the dog before you walk it! Dogs that are strong walkers are listed as strong walkers on the dog walking list; do not walk these dogs unless you know that you can handle them.


  3. Go into cage to hook a dog on a leash. Always check the dog's collar for correct fit (only a finger or two space should exist between the collar and the dog's neck). Tighten or loosen collar if needed; if you are unable to tighten or loosen collar, then find a collar that fits - ask kennel staff for help if you need to. Collars are located in the black drawer on top of the dog walker's desk in the garage.


  4. Check to see that the leash you use is in working order; it should be no longer than 6-8 feet.


  5. Dog walking hours are 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM all seven days of the week!


  6. Dogs are to be walked toward the flood-wall and on the dirt and paved roads to the left of the Humane Society; never walk a dog through the neighborhood.


  7. You are required to clean up any droppings left by the dog you are walking; plastic bags are provided, and bags are to be disposed of in garbage cans located on the right hand side of the building or in the garage.


  8. Dogs can be taken out through the courtyard gate or the garage door. The small dogs upstairs can be walked through the front office.


  9. When you return a dog to a cage ALWAYS make sure it has water in its bowl. If other dogs are in need of water, PLEASE give them some also or let someone know!


  10. When you return a dog to a cage ALWAYS replace the clip on the latch to prevent the cage door from being opened by the dog. THIS IS VERY IMPORTANT!!!


  11. ALL DOGS MUST BE KEPT 10 FEET APART FOR YOUR SAFETY AS WELL AS THE DOGS' SAFETY.


  12. Please report ANY injury or unusual behavior of a dog to a staff member ASAP and write it under dog walking notes opposite the dog walking list in the garage


  13. You may give healthy treats to the dogs, but ask kennel staff before doing so. (Please no real bones or rawhide chews; dog may choke or certain dogs may get aggressive if given these.) Please read the cage cards to see if the dogs have any special diet needs.


  14. Only one dog is to be out of its cage in the kennel and courtyard area at any time; if you see someone with a dog out, wait for them to exit the area or put their dog back into its cage before taking a dog out.


  15. Enjoy your walks with the dogs; our animals thank you!
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