Dogs 2nd Chance

Volunteer & Staff Safety Protocol

Purpose

The safety of our volunteers, staff, foster families, visitors, and the dogs in our care is our highest priority. Every volunteer and staff member is expected to follow these safety protocols at all times while representing Dogs 2nd Chance.

1. General Safety

• Always follow instructions from Dogs 2nd Chance leadership.
• Never perform a task you have not been trained or authorized to do.
• If you are unsure about a situation, stop and ask for assistance.
• Report all accidents, injuries, bites, scratches, near misses, or unsafe conditions immediately.
• Treat every dog with patience, kindness, and respect.

2. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

When appropriate, volunteers and staff should wear:

• Closed-toe, non-slip shoes
• Long pants when handling dogs
• Gloves when cleaning kennels, handling waste, or treating injuries
• Eye protection when using cleaning chemicals

Wear weather-appropriate clothing and stay hydrated during outdoor events.

3. Dog Handling Safety

• Only trained volunteers may handle dogs.
• Always use an approved leash and properly fitted collar or harness.
• Never wrap a leash around your hand or wrist.
• Maintain control of the dog at all times.
• Never leave a dog unattended while outside a secure area.
• Keep dogs separated unless instructed otherwise.
• Do not place yourself between dogs that are fighting. Notify experienced personnel immediately.
• Watch for signs of fear, stress, or aggression such as growling, stiff posture, raised hackles, lunging, or excessive barking. If observed, stop handling the dog and notify a supervisor.

4. Lifting and Physical Safety

• Lift with your legs, not your back.
• Ask for help when lifting heavy dogs, crates, food, or equipment.
• Use proper equipment whenever available.
• Do not attempt to restrain or lift an animal beyond your physical ability.

5. Disease Prevention

• Wash hands before and after handling each dog.
• Wash hands after cleaning, feeding, or handling waste.
• Do not eat or drink in animal care areas.
• Clean and disinfect equipment after each use.
• Notify Dogs 2nd Chance if you believe a dog may have an infectious illness.

6. Bite or Injury Procedures

If bitten or scratched:

• Secure the dog safely.
• Wash the wound immediately with soap and water.
• Notify a Dogs 2nd Chance supervisor.
• Seek medical treatment if needed.
• Complete an Incident Report before leaving the event or work area.
• All bites, regardless of severity, must be reported.

7. Vehicle Safety

• Dogs must always be safely secured during transport using crates, seatbelt restraints, or other approved methods.
• Never leave a dog unattended in a vehicle during warm weather.
• Follow all traffic laws.
• Drivers must possess a valid driver’s license and insurance if using a personal vehicle.

8. Event Safety

During adoption events and fundraisers:

• Keep walkways clear.
• Monitor dogs closely around children and other animals.
• Keep dogs on leash at all times.
• Never allow unauthorized individuals to remove a dog from the event.
• Immediately report any aggressive behavior or emergencies.

9. Chemical Safety

• Use only approved cleaning and disinfecting products.
• Follow product directions.
• Never mix cleaning chemicals.
• Store chemicals away from animals and children.

10. Weather Safety

Outdoor activities may be postponed or canceled due to:

• Extreme heat
• Severe thunderstorms
• Tornado warnings
• Flooding
• Ice or hazardous road conditions

Volunteers should seek shelter immediately during severe weather.

11. Emergency Procedures

In any emergency:

• Remain calm.
• Protect yourself first.
• Secure the animals if it can be done safely.
• Call 911 when appropriate.
• Notify a Dogs 2nd Chance supervisor as soon as possible.
• Complete an Incident Report after the emergency.

12. Volunteer Responsibilities

Every volunteer agrees to:

• Follow all Dogs 2nd Chance policies and procedures.
• Respect the confidentiality of adopters, fosters, donors, and volunteers.
• Maintain a professional and respectful attitude.
• Immediately report unsafe conditions.
• Help create a safe environment for people and animals.

Acknowledgment

I have read and understand the Dogs 2nd Chance Volunteer & Staff Safety Protocol. I agree to follow these guidelines while volunteering or working with Dogs 2nd Chance.