Adult Volunteer

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Thank you for your interest in volunteering with the Humane Society of Sarasota County. We rely on hundreds of volunteers, like you, every year to give the animals in our shelter the love and care they deserve while waiting for their furever home. Our Volunteers help as Canine Companion dog walkers. Please note you MUST complete our online volunteer application at HSSC.org to move forward with your volunteer application. From there, our Volunteer Manager will contact you about available shifts. Example of the job description:

Position: Dog Walker

Schedule: Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays from 7am-5pm

Reports to: Animal Care Manager

Position Summary:

The Humane Society of Sarasota County (HSSC) dog walkers assist with the daily needs of our shelter dogs and support our animal care team. Dog walkers provide daily walks and enrichment for all approved dogs as efficiently and safely as possible, and support the basic goal of "Every Dog, Every Day."

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Ability to access shelter software to review animal’s profile including behavior and medical records.
• Review whiteboards for all alerts, updates, and medical information 
• Walk dogs following the established walking path and have a full understanding of the dot system.  
• Follow behavioral protocols as posted and ensure every dog has leash manners while on the walk.  
• Utilize outdoor yard space for high energy dogs not identified as "leash-only."
• Alert staff immediately of urgent medical concerns
• Report non-emergent medical concerns on the medical board located near the covered play yards.
• Understand and follow proper emergency procedures in the event of an accident.  
• Be willing and open to advocating for a long-term animal and completing any tasks assigned.  

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Must wear non-slip, closed toe shoes.
• Must be in good health and able to stand and bend for periods of time. 
• Must be able to lift and carry 25 pounds or less.
• A physically demanding position that requires working around chemicals, and handling biological waste that may pose exposure risk to parasites and infectious diseases. 
• Must be willing and able to perform all duties during the cleaning process and follow proper sanitation and disease prevention protocols.  
• Must be able and willing to collaborate with staff and fellow volunteers.
• This volunteer role is labor-intensive; moderate exertion is required. Includes bending, pushing/pulling, walking, sitting, and working in conditions involving temperature fluctuations and noise.