Ellijay Paws in Need Volunteer Job Description

You play a huge role in keeping our dogs safe, healthy, and happy! Thank you for getting involved!

General Volunteer Qualifications

·       Must be 18 years of age or older.

·       Love dogs and working with dogs!

·       Increase the dogs’ “adoptability” with humane treatment, positive reinforcement, and spending quality time with each animal.

Physical Qualifications

·       Ability to work around dogs in varying temperatures.

·       Ability to work around loud noises and strong smells.

·       Ability to work outside in all weather conditions including heat, cold, and light rain.

·       Ability to walk, bend, and stand for extended periods of time.

·       Possess physical strength and agility sufficient to handle and maintain control of large and/or small dogs, as assigned.

·       Able to lift up to 20 pounds.

Essential Functions

Volunteers must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily.

·       Understand and follow EPIN protocols and supervisor instructions related to volunteer assignment including, but not limited to, leash/harness use, dog walking, dog training, “Dogs Playing for Life” and EPIN Play Group Guidelines, etc.

·       Learn the “tools of the trade” relevant to volunteer assignment, including, but not limited to use of collars, leashes, harnesses, muzzles, toys, treats, etc.  

·       Interact safely with animals and report any abnormalities, dangers, and bite incidents, to appropriate supervisor.

·       Be accountable for mistakes you make and report oversights and errors to the appropriate supervisor.

·       Use personal smartphone to send/receive text messages as part of EPIN’s primary communication tool for volunteer teams.

·       Demonstrate excellent communication skills by promptly and appropriately responding to communications and following up as needed.

·       Show up when scheduled and notify your supervisor with reasonable notice when unable to work an assigned shift.

·       Work both independently with little to no staff supervision, and as a reliable and productive member of team.

·       Demonstrate general good initiative, courtesy, and team player skills.

·       Limit use smart phones when handling dogs to remain focused on the assigned dog and activity at hand.

·       Keep work areas clean, neat, organized, and safe. Spot cleaning kennels, as needed, and remove animal waste, food/treats, etc. from work areas at end of shift.

·       Exercise good judgment in performing all essential functions.

·       Assist with other tasks as needed and assigned.