For Animal Shelters, Sanctuaries, and Rescue Organizations
This document will walk you through everything you need to know before your first shift. Read it once, keep it somewhere you can find it, and do not hesitate to ask questions. There are no bad ones.
Before Your First Shift
Complete the following before arriving:
- Sign and return the volunteer agreement form
- Confirm your first shift date, time, and assigned area with your coordinator
- Review the shelter’s biosecurity guidelines (provided separately)
- Complete the online orientation module if required
- Confirm you have closed-toe shoes for all shifts
What to Expect in Your First Week
Your first week is about observation, not performance.
You will make mistakes. That is expected and completely fine. What matters is that you ask before doing something you are unsure about, especially with animals that are flagged as needing careful handling.
By the end of your first week you should know:
- Where the supplies are for your assigned area
- The daily routine and timing for your shift
- Which animals have specific handling notes
- Who to go to if something feels off with an animal
- How to log your hours
You do not need to know everything immediately. The team will help you get there.
Core Responsibilities by Role
Kennel and Enclosure Care
- Clean and disinfect kennels or enclosures following posted protocols
- Replenish food and water according to each animal’s posted feeding instructions
- Note and report any changes in appetite, energy, or behavior to staff
- Ensure all enclosure doors and latches are secured before leaving the area
Animal Socialization
- Spend structured time with animals flagged for socialization
- Follow handling notes posted on each kennel or enclosure
- Do not introduce animals to each other without staff approval
- Log your time and any notable behavioral observations
Front of House and Visitor Support
- Welcome visitors and answer general questions about the adoption process
- Direct visitors to staff for specific animal or medical questions
- Ensure the public area is tidy throughout your shift
- Never share specific medical details about animals with the public
Administrative Support
- Assist with data entry, filing, or communication tasks as directed
- Handle donor and adopter information with strict confidentiality
- Escalate any donor inquiries you cannot answer to the coordinator
Important Guidelines
Animal handling. Always read the handling notes before interacting with an animal you have not worked with before. If a kennel has a caution flag, check with staff before entering.
Photography and social media. Do not post photos or videos of animals or staff without written approval from the shelter coordinator. Unapproved posts can create serious complications for animals in active adoption or legal proceedings.
Confidentiality. Do not share information about animals, adopters, donors, or shelter operations outside the building. This includes conversations with friends and family.
Health and illness. If you are feeling unwell, especially with respiratory symptoms or stomach illness, please stay home. Let your coordinator know as early as possible so the shift can be covered. The animals in our care are vulnerable to illness.
Emergencies. If an animal appears to be in medical distress, contact a staff member immediately. Do not attempt to treat or diagnose an animal yourself.
Your First Day Checklist
✅ Sign in and collect your volunteer badge
✅ Meet your shift supervisor and confirm your assigned area
✅ Walk through the facility with a staff member before starting
✅ Read the handling notes for every animal in your area
✅ Complete your assigned tasks and ask if unclear
✅ Log your hours before leaving
✅ Let your supervisor know about anything unusual you observed
Who to Contact
| Need | Contact |
|---|---|
| Shift scheduling or changes | Volunteer Coordinator |
| Animal health concerns | On-duty Staff Member |
| Handling questions | Shift Supervisor |
| Donor or adopter inquiries | Shelter Manager |
| Emergency | On-duty Staff, then 911 if required |
A Note Before You Start
The people who work and volunteer here are carrying a lot.
They show up for animals that have been given up, neglected, or simply run out of luck. They do it on tight budgets, with not enough hours, and more often than not without the recognition they deserve.
You are now one of those people.
That matters.
If you ever feel uncertain, overwhelmed, or like you need support, say something. This work affects people. It is okay to ask for help.
Thank you for choosing to show up.
This template was created by BarkLogue. If your shelter wants help telling your animals’ stories to raise more donations, visit barklogue.com or book a call at calendly.com/blang-barklogue/30min
