Idaho Humane Society Volunteer Handbook
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Idaho Humane Society
Volunteer Handbook
The mission of the Idaho Humane Society is to advocate for the welfare and
responsible care of animals, protect them from neglect and cruelty, and promote
humane education, awareness and compassion.
Table of Contents
Welcome! ………………………………………………………………………………………..……………………………………… ........3
Intro to Idaho Humane Society………………………………………………………………………………………………… ........4
Volunteer Program and Policies .............................................................................................................8
Shelter Basics…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. ............17
Health and Safety Guidelines………………………………………………………………………………………………… .........33
2
Welcome!
We are so excited to have you on our team here at the Idaho Humane Society (IHS)! Without
volunteers, our efforts to advocate for the welfare and responsible care of animals, protect
them from neglect and cruelty, and promote humane education, awareness and compassion
would cease to exist. It is because of volunteers like you that we are able to achieve this.
In every position where I am in charge of others, I make sure that everyone (including animals)
are happy, healthy and safe. If I can accomplish these three things, I have done my job. Please
feel free to stop in my office to say hello or ask any questions that you may have.
This manual should help you through your IHS volunteering journey. It is a great resource to
help with basic questions and needs you may find you have when starting to volunteer with us.
Again, the staff, myself and our animals, are so thankful for your time and energy. Please feel
free to reach out with any questions or concerns.
Courtney Thompson
Volunteer Services Manager Contact:
208-331-8553
volunteer@idahohumanesociety.org
IHS Adoption Center
1300 S. Bird St. Boise, ID 83709
Bird Adoption Center Hours:
Tuesday-Saturday: 11:00am-7:00pm
Sunday: 11am-5pm
Bird Medical Center Monday-Sunday
8am-6pm
Dorman Facility
4775 W. Dorman St., Boise, ID 83705
Monday-Sunday 8am-6pm Both campuses
are closed on major holidays.
3
Intro to the Idaho Humane Society
The original Idaho Humane Society was formed in Boise in the late
1890s and active through the early decades of the last century. It was
an all-volunteer organization. Some of the original members were later
affiliated with the current Humane Society, including District Judge
Charles F. Koelsch, who was a lifelong and influential advocate for the
humane treatment of animals and for the punishment of those who
perpetuate acts of cruelty.
The Dorman Campus was officially incorporated after three Boise women – Mrs. John (Olga)
Rothchild, Mrs. Ben Mains and Mrs. Earl Zimmerman – protested inhumane conditions at the
Boise City Pound in June 1941. The women took a local Idaho Statesman reporter to investigate
the pound and confronted Boise Mayor Westerman Whillock with demands that conditions
should be improved.
The result was a front-page Idaho Statesman expose that infuriated local citizens with its
account of stray dogs languishing in the pound. The pound facility at the time was a three-sided
wooden barn located on the banks of the Boise River near present-day Ann Morrison Park in an
area known to residents as “shanty town.” Dogs were reportedly kept without adequate food
or water, and subsequently shot and left to decompose within the structure.
Reacting to public pressure, the mayor assured residents that the situation would be remedied
and pledged to adequately fund the pound with dog license revenue. With the help of the
group that would become the Idaho Humane Society, the structure was cleaned and the
animals were cared for properly. New policies for humane euthanasia, sanitation and plentiful
food and water were put in place, and mandatory holding periods for stray dogs were also
established.
The Idaho Humane Society took over the functions of running the shelter and was highly
successful at finding the owners of lost dogs and adopting out those that were not claimed.
Olga Rothchild, both passionate and forceful in her concern for animals, continued to be a
driving force in improving conditions. The group was ahead of its time, ensuring that adopted
female dogs were spayed at the Blue Cross Hospital for Dogs in Boise (a revolutionary idea at
that time). During this time the pound had no electricity or heat, and water for cleaning had to
be carried from the river in buckets.
One of the organization’s early accomplishments was passing local animal cruelty and dog-
atlarge laws. The shelter was moved to an old army barracks at Gowen Field in 1949. In 1959, a
new shelter was constructed. The majority of funds came from the Humane Society, with Ada
County and the city of Boise contributing the rest.
Although conditions were much improved, this shelter was overcrowded from the beginning, a
situation that was remedied in 1997 with the construction of the present day 27,000-
4
squarefoot Dorman St. facility funded by a capital campaign that raised $3.8 million from local
philanthropists and businesses.
In 2019, The Bird St. Campus was opened to house our adoptable animals and our Veterinary
Clinic which is open to the public. The Dorman Campus is used as our intake center and all
animals that are surrendered or brought in as a stray, are brought to the Dorman location. The
shelter clinic is located at this facility and is where all animals getting ready to go to the
adoption center are spayed/neutered, given their vaccinations, and evaluated.
The Dorman and S. Bird St. Campuses handle an average of 12,000 animals a year and have one
of the most successful adoption and fostering programs in the Northwest. The current Idaho
Humane Society has a staff of over 100 employees and more than 1,000 volunteers. It is
governed by an all-volunteer, 19-member board of directors.
Above: IHS Dorman St. Campus
Below: IHS Bird St. Campus
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Volunteer Program and Policies
Volunteer Commitment
Any time volunteers can share with IHS is valuable and appreciated. There are positions that
require a weekly or monthly time commitment and also positions that can be filled whenever
you are available. If you commit yourself to a specific event, please plan on volunteering your
entire scheduled shift or let the Volunteer Services Manager know in advance if you’re unable
to attend.
After 12 months of inactivity, you will be removed from the volunteer roster. To continue as an
IHS Volunteer, you will need to reach out to the Volunteer Services Manager to check and see if
you need to take a refresher on any classes before coming back to volunteer at IHS.
Communication
Email is the primary method of communication with volunteers. Monthly updates, requests for
help at events, or special needs at the shelter are all emailed to volunteers. If you do not have
email, please check in frequently with the Volunteer Services Manager.
Volunteer Policies
Volunteers who are at least 16 years of age and able to work independently may volunteer at
Idaho Humane Society after completing the online orientation and all trainings necessary for
volunteering in areas where more training is needed, but may be restricted to certain tasks.
Anyone 12-15 years of age must have a parent or guardian accompany them while
volunteering. Please see volunteer age requirements below for more information on this topic.
For safety and security concerns, volunteers must wear a volunteer t-shirt, name tag, and
closed toed shoes while volunteering at all times. We would prefer volunteers to wear long
pants while volunteering as well.
Age Requirements for Volunteers
The minimum age for IHS volunteers is 12 years. Children who are between the ages 12-15 and
who have an adult who has also completed volunteer training may volunteer at our Bird St.
Campus. Children ages 12-15 must always have an adult with them and in control of all animals
while volunteering. Adults should always hold dog leashes. We do not allow children younger
than 12 years of age to volunteer with or without an adult.
Children ages 16 years and older can volunteer without an adult, can work alone in the cattery,
and can handle a dog on leash in the kennels. Youth volunteers under 18 years must have their
volunteer application signed by a parent or guardian.
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Kennel and Cattery Essential Capabilities of Idaho Humane Society Volunteers
In order to maintain a safe environment for our animals, the general public, staff and volunteers with
essential care and enrichment, the Idaho Humane Society (IHS) has the following essential requirements
for participation in the volunteer program when working with animals. Volunteers need to possess the
following physical, mental, and emotional capacities. Your signature on this form indicates that you
believe you possess these basic capabilities, with your written acknowledgement of any limitations.
At IHS, we strive to create an inclusive, welcoming environment and will make every reasonable effort to
accommodate differently abled individuals. Individuals who do not possess the following basic
capabilities may be asked to bring an assisting individual with them in order to volunteer. The assisting
individual has to also become a volunteer with IHS and has also taken all required trainings in the kennel
and/or cattery areas. In other cases, the volunteer may be required to only perform volunteer tasks that
they are considered capable of safely accomplishing without assistance.
Essential Physical Capabilities
• Average vision (with or without correction) to move safely around the building, to be able to
observe animal body language without difficulty, to be able to read notes on animals’
paperwork, computer, or memos as needed
• Ability to speak and effectively communicate in English verbally as well as in written form
• Average reflexes and ability to use both hands simultaneously (example: open cage door while
handling animal)
• Sufficient manual dexterity to prepare diets, handle small tools, open/close doors and cages
• Must not have strong allergies to cats or chemicals that can’t be managed by medication
• Ability to hear and respond to feedback from others including staff members, patrons, and
animals that are indicating fear, aggression, or pain
• Average strength to assist with lifting small to medium sized objects/animals
• Ability to tolerate a loud environment due to animal noises
• Ability to tolerate sometimes strong and unpleasant odors, fleas, feces, and possible wounds or
injuries to animals in our care
• Must have sufficient physical endurance to accomplish certain physical tasks.
• Ability to walk unaided on unpaved, uneven, rugged and sometimes muddy and slippery
exercise yard and lawn areas (when walking dogs outdoors)
• Ability to bend and squat to leash/harness and pick up an animal
• Ability to stand for significant periods of time while walking dogs, assisting the public with visits,
or cleaning cages/kennels
• Ability to push carts and barrels of laundry; load and unload washer and dryer; fold clean
laundry and put away, reaching shelves from ground level up
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Essential Mental Capabilities
• Ability to understand, remember, and follow exact instructions and procedures
• Once trained, must be able to work independently with minimal supervision yet be able to
recognize limitations and ask for help when needed
• Possess sufficient reading, writing, and communication skills (example: understand words such
as quarantine, euthanize, and other common industry-related terms)
• Possess problem-solving capability
• Ability to be aware of and recognize potentially dangerous situations when working with
animals and ability to o Remain calm with animals
o Show good judgement by reacting sensitively, respectfully, and appropriately
• Ability to understand and accept the boundaries between the role of a volunteer and the role of
a staff member
Essential Emotional Capabilities
• Ability to cope with unexpected animal behavior without assistance
• Ability to cope with a highly emotionally charged environment with some animals that are
homeless, abandoned, and/or abused, as well as the reality that some of the animals in our care
may be humanely euthanized
• Ability to understand IHS’ policies and positions regarding all animals, animal control, and other
key animal welfare issues and an ability and willingness to appropriately and accurately
represent those policies when interacting with the public or otherwise representing IHS
Ability to control the urge to play with/pet animals in isolation
Level of Supervision
If lacking the ability to work independently, whether due to age/cognitive ability/ physical ability, must
be able to work alongside a parent/guardian/partner/case manager with a focused attention on the task
at hand.
Please indicate any reasonable accommodations(s) you may need in order to meet the essential
capabilities of your volunteer positions with IHS:
_____________________________________________________________________________________
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_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
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Volunteer Name: _________________________ Signature: ______________________________
Date: ____________________
10Policy for Volunteers with Assisting Individuals
The Volunteer may not volunteer at IHS until their assisting individual (e.g., Caregiver, PSR
worker, or equivalent) has met all qualifications to become an IHS volunteer.
Assisting individuals must be actively involved with and responsible for the volunteer they are assisting
while volunteering at the Idaho Humane Society (IHS). Assisting individuals must also stay with their
volunteer at all times while volunteering. Assisting individuals and their volunteer must wear a volunteer
T-shirt and/or a name badge. If the Assisting individual is not being fully involved with their volunteer
while volunteering, they will be asked to leave.
If there is a change in the volunteer’s assisting individual, their new helper must be an IHS volunteer. The
volunteer may not volunteer at IHS until their assisting individual has met all qualifications to become an
IHS volunteer.
• Non-animal handling positions
• Putting together adoption packets
• Preparing materials for events
• Unfolding newspapers
• Sorting paperwork
• Filling dog toys with peanut butter Other miscellaneous needs.
• Animal Handling Positions
• All volunteers and assisting individuals must read and sign the Kennel and Cattery
Essential Capabilities Form.
• The ratio of assisting individual to volunteer must be one-to-one.
• The assisting individual must be extremely hands on in assisting their volunteer while
volunteering. They must do the majority of the animal handling if the client cannot keep
sufficient control of the animal. For example, only one dog at a time can be walked by a
volunteer and assisting individual and the helper must be with the volunteer the entire
process of getting a dog out of a kennel, walking it, and returning it to the correct
kennel.
• Animal handling positions include comforting cats, assisting in cattery, and walking dogs.
Volunteer Training
All volunteers must fill out an online application and pay the $10 volunteer fee. They must
watch and answer the online orientation video and quiz. If volunteers are looking to walk or
handle dogs, they will need to watch and answer the online kennel skills video and questions. If
volunteers are looking to work with cats in the cattery, they will need to watch and answer the
online cattery skills video and questions. Once these videos are completed, volunteers will
finish their classes in person with a staff member or Mentor Volunteer at the Adoption Center
where they will also get their volunteer T-Shirt.
The link to sign up for the in-person portions can be found here:
http://www.supersaas.com/schedule/IHS_Volunteer_Program/New_Volunteer_Classes
11Volunteer Advancement
At our shelter, we encourage our volunteers to pursue opportunities for growth and take
ownership of their development within the volunteer program. Evaluation to volunteer roles at
higher levels is available to qualified volunteers in good standing. Advancement is not
automatic, however; volunteers must demonstrate traits such as integrity, compassion,
punctuality, responsibility, respect, and the ability to work as part of a team, in addition to
meeting the minimum requirements. Once the volunteer has met the minimum hours for
advancement, they should notify the Volunteer Services Manager of their interest. Be advised
that the final decision on placement and promotion rests with the Volunteer Services Manager
and Area Supervisor, and that they reserve the right to prevent unqualified volunteers from
advancing.
Volunteer Levels
Basic Level- Plastic Nametag with dog and/or cat with name
Essential Shelter Help- Non-animal handling tasks and/or,
Kennel Skills- Has completed kennel skills class and can handle/walk dogs in kennels 1,2,5,6
and/or,
Cattery Skills- Has completed cattery skills class and can handle cats
All volunteers are able to sign up for volunteer classes on dog handling, fitting
equipment, behavior modification etc. to be moved up to an advanced volunteer.
Advanced Level- Nametag with dog and/or cat with name, paw print stickers
Meets all Kennel Skills and/or Cattery Skills Basic Level Qualifications and,
Has volunteered in kennel and/or cattery for at least one month and
Has logged at least 30 hours of volunteer time in the kennel and/or cattery or other Animal
Handling IHS programs and,
Has taken any classes needed to become an advanced volunteer for the department they are
volunteering in and,
Has been approved by staff
Advanced Volunteers are acknowledged with a specific colored, paw print sticker to let staff
know where they are allowed to help in an advanced level.
Advanced volunteers may also be asked to help lead basic level volunteers who would like a
bit extra help on their first scheduled volunteer shift.
Mentor Level – Professional Nametag
Must have completed Basic and Advanced Levels if working with animals, or be an Essential
Shelter Volunteer and,
Has logged at least 100 hours of volunteer time in the kennel and/or cattery or other IHS
programs and,
Must volunteer with IHS at least 30 hours per quarter at events, mobiles, MOW, PFP, clerical
work, cattery/kennels, teaching classes, other IHS programs etc.
Be approved by staff
Mentors lead advanced volunteers and basic volunteers through trainings in different areas
around IHS including, but not limited to- kennel skills, cattery skills, Pet Food Pantry,
Playgroups, Education Program, Clinic needs, Foster Program, and Recycling Program.
12Volunteer Code of Ethics
As a volunteer representing Idaho Humane Society, your conduct towards staff, fellow
volunteers, animals in our care, and members of the public is expected to be professional and
courteous. By volunteering, you are committing to our team, our animals, and yourself to carry
out your duties in an exemplary manner to the best of your abilities. This Code of Ethics clarifies
expectations of Idaho Humane Society.
Displays of unprofessional, dishonest or disrespectful behavior, and/or lack of self-discipline,
are grounds for termination of volunteer status.
As an Idaho Humane Society Volunteer, I pledge to adhere to the following tenants…
Respect
Have respect for others, even when I may not agree with them.
Respect the authority of shelter managers, staff, and higher level volunteers.
And display courtesy, sensitivity, consideration, and compassion for people and animals.
Safety
Follow the guidelines presented to me during training and mentoring.
Use equipment and supplies as they are intended, and with caution.
Report all injuries immediately to a staff member.
Ask for help when needed, and not attempt to take on more than I am qualified to do.
Self-discipline
Set boundaries for myself based on knowledge of my physical and cognitive limitations. Hold
myself accountable for the commitments I make, and remember that Idaho Humane Society
counts on me.
Value my role in the maintenance and growth of the organization and its programs.
Communication
Always ask questions, rather than assume to know how or why something is done.
Practice active listening.
Be cognitive of my body language, and the message it conveys. Pay
attention to the nonverbal cues of our pet population.
13Cell Phone Policy
Please ensure your personal cell phone is on silent while at IHS. If you must make or take a
personal call, please step outside of animal care areas.
Drugs and Alcohol Policy
IHS is committed to providing a safe, efficient and productive environment for all employees
and volunteers. Using, possessing or being under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the facility
poses serious safety and health risks. While on IHS property, no volunteer may use, possess,
distribute, sell or be under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs. The Bird St. Campus is a
non-smoking campus.
The legal use of prescribed drugs is permitted at the facility only if it does not impair a
volunteer’s ability to perform the essential functions of the job effectively and in a safe manner
that does not endanger other individuals.
Non-Discrimination Policy and Harassment
IHS is committed to providing an environment that is free from all forms of discrimination and
conduct that can be considered harassing, coercive, or disruptive, including sexual harassment.
Actions, words, jokes, or comments based on an individual’s gender, race, color, sexual
orientation, national origin, age, religion, disability, or any other legally protected characteristic
will not be tolerated and are grounds for termination of the volunteer.
If you experience or witness sexual or other unlawful harassment in the workplace, report it to
the Volunteer Services Manager immediately. If the Volunteer Services Manager is unavailable,
or you believe it would be inappropriate to contact that person, you should immediately
contact the Human’s Resource Director.
Harassment and Violence
No volunteer, staff member, customer, or other individual shall be harassed, sexually harassed,
or subject to actual or threat of violence at IHS or any IHS sponsored activities or events. It is
grounds for termination of your volunteer position if IHS finds that a volunteer is harassing
other volunteers, staff, customers or other individuals.
If a volunteer is subject to such harassment or violence while working s/he should immediately
report it to the Volunteer Services Manager. If the Volunteer Services Manager is the
perpetrator of the offense, the report should be made to the Director of Human Resources.
Violence towards animals will not be tolerated under any circumstances. If a volunteer
witnesses such abuse, they shall immediately report it to the Volunteer Services Manager,
Shelter Manager or Executive Director. If a volunteer witnesses or suspects animal abuse by a
customer or individual, they should report it to a kennel or cattery staff member.
14Issues/Conflict Resolution
If a volunteer has an issue, which could be defined as any problem, grievance or difficulty in or
with IHS or its staff members, and volunteers, that volunteer must present the issue to the
Volunteer Services Manager. This will assist IHS in its attempt to resolve the issue by
Examination and discussion of the circumstances surrounding the issue. The Volunteer Services
Manager should make every attempt in good faith to satisfactorily resolve issues for the
volunteer.
If a volunteer has an issue with another volunteer/s, the volunteer must first discuss the issue
with the volunteer/s. If the matter cannot be resolved between or among individuals, the
volunteer with an unresolved issue must then notify the Volunteer Services Manager in writing.
The Volunteer Services Manager will generally schedule a meeting with all parties involved to
solve the issue.
Social Media Policy
If you are contacted by a reporter or representative of any TV, Radio, Newspaper, or Magazine
reporters, or by other media representatives regarding Idaho Humane Society, direct them to
the PR and Communications Manager.
If you choose to identify yourself as a volunteer at Idaho Humane Society or discuss matters
related to Idaho Humane Society on a personal website, blog, or other social media platforms,
many readers may assume you are speaking on behalf of IHS. In light of this possibility, your
communications should be transparent, ethical and accurate. Please follow IHS guidelines when
blogging, creating a personal website, or posting on social media.
Comments posted by others on social media sites that may be perceived as negative should be
directed toward the IHS PR and Marketing Manager. Please do not respond to such comments.
Only pictures of animals available for adoption should be posted. Pictures of any other Shelter
animals should not be posted to personal sites.
Ask the Volunteer Services Manager if you have any questions about what is appropriate to
include in your blog, website and/or other social media platforms.
Be respectful of the organization, fellow volunteers, and the general public.
Be smart about what you publish. Once you put something out there, it can be difficult to
retract.
15Confidentiality Policy
Volunteers will maintain the confidentiality of IHS customers, donors, and sensitive information
as prescribed by IHS and, if applicable, by law. The names and identifying information of IHS
customers and donors will be considered strictly confidential and will not be shared by
volunteers with other agencies or individuals.
Confidentiality on all matters pertaining to IHS should be maintained, until their release to the
general public by authorized staff.
Each IHS volunteer has an obligation to observe and follow Idaho Humane Society’s policies and
to maintain standards of conduct at all times.
No Show/ Tardiness Policy
Being on time is asked of volunteers. Because absence or late arrival may cause hardships for
other volunteers, employees and animals we care for, we require volunteers who are delayed
more than a few minutes, or who are unable to attend volunteer opportunities they have
already signed up for to contact the Volunteer Services Manager promptly and in advance
when possible. If you are late or no show for volunteer opportunities more than once without
letting the Volunteer Services Manager know, you will not be allowed to volunteer in that area
anymore.
Dismissal of Volunteer
Volunteers breaching any of Idaho Humane Society’s policies and procedures will be reviewed
by the Volunteer Services Manager and/or the COO. Appropriate action will be taken, which
may include, but not be limited to, the following: Discussion, more training, reprimand,
suspension, dismissal.
Causes for release from the volunteer program
• Breaking confidentiality
• Failure to adhere to policies or follow procedures
• Failure to report volunteer hours
• Inactivity
• Inappropriate drug or alcohol use
• Inappropriate or unprofessional conduct
• Excessive “no-show” for volunteer shifts
• Not fulfilling the duties of the volunteer position
• Theft
• Misrepresentation of the Idaho Humane Society
• Violence, implication of violence or harassment
16Shelter Basics
Rules and Reminders
Off-Limit Areas of the Adoption Center:
Unless specifically working with staff, these are areas volunteers should not enter.
• Back areas of the Clinic
• Behind Front Desk Area
• Storage Rooms
• Server Room
• Kennel Customer Service Area (unless getting leash to walk dog)
• Education Room
• Upstairs in administration offices (please ask front desk to call for specific person if you
are in need of meeting with someone and do not have an appointment set up already)
If there are animals in the lobby, they need to be restrained for safety reasons. Please offer a
leash to customers who come in the front door with an unleashed dog. If someone enters the
Adoption Center holding a cat that is not contained in a carrier, ask them to put it in an empty
cat carrier. This should not be an issue at the Adoption Center as the intake of animals will be at
our Dorman location, but in the off chance it is needed, please be prepared.
Off-Limit Areas of Dorman St.:
Unless specifically working with staff, these are areas volunteers should not enter.
Behind front desk area
WILD Cat room
Server/maintenance room
Admissions desk area
Kennel A
17Dog Handling at IHS Adoption Center
You watched the online kennel skills class and you attended the in-person portion and are
ready to walk dogs at our Bird St. location! Hurray! Below are things to be aware of when
handling/walking dogs at our Bird St.
When you arrive to the Bird St. Campus, please be sure to sign in at the Volunteer Sign in
located just outside of the Volunteer Manager’s office/Volunteer Workroom unless you are
logging your volunteer hours in the volunteer portal. This is located to the right and behind the
small mammal’s room. Be sure to check the corkboard located above the sign in sheet for
updates.
Important reminders:
• Must be 16 years of age to handle a leash.
• Closed toed shoes required to handle dogs.
• Always put a dog back in their correct kennel. If you don’t remember where they should
go, ask a staff member.
• Never take a dog that is too big or strong for you to realistically handle.
• Do not take a puppy under 6 months outside due to Parvovirus risk. This virus is deadly
to dogs that are not fully vaccinated (like puppies) and it can live in the grass for many
months. Please wear gloves when handling puppies.
• Puppies under 6 months old must always be carried.
• Do not drag, pull, or push the dog if it’s not walking. Use caution when picking up small
dogs. Not all dogs like to be picked up.
• Try to give each dog at least 20 minutes outside of their kennel. This allows time for
them to use the bathroom, run, and get some love. CAUTION: if temperatures exceed 90
degrees or below 32 degrees, then limit walks to no more than 5 minutes.
• Only take one dog out at a time (even if they are kennel mates). They need your
undivided attention.
• Please do not let dogs touch nose to nose; keep at least 3 feet between the dogs. Dogs
are not allowed to interact on leash or off-leash (off-leash areas are one dog only). This
will help reduce kennel cough.
• Please use mutt mitts to clean up poop messes. Deposit used mutt mitts in proper
receptacles.
• “Clean dog toy” bins are located at Customer Service Desk, in get acquainted rooms, and
in the indoor playrooms. Please put dirty toys in the laundry bins located in the
workrooms connected to the dog dorms.
• Use positive reinforcement at all times when working with dogs.
• If a dog appears sick, inform the kennel staff.
18Dog Dorms
All dogs at the Bird St. Campus are adoptable. There are seven kennel dorms that house our
dogs until they are adopted.
Dorm 3 is used for our dogs who have a specific behavior plan they are following. These dogs
will only be walked by approved more advanced volunteers and staff. You need staff permission
before entering this dorm.
Dorm 4 is used for our adoptable dogs who have kennel cough. We keep these dogs separate in
hopes of containing it to one area. Please ask staff before walking and handling these dogs to
prevent the spread of kennel cough.
Dorm 7 is used as our holding area for dogs who are not up for adoption yet.
Kennel cards are located outside of the dorms on the windows. Please walk past the four
kennels with walkable dogs and read the kennel cards before taking a dog out. Be sure that the
dog you are interested in taking out is approved for your volunteer level.
Once you have found a dog you would like to take out, note their apartment number (kennel
number) and go to the Customer Service Desk for a leash.
Enter the dog’s kennel completely and close the door behind you. Wait until the dog shows
good kennel manners by having all four feet on the ground and then clip the lead onto their
collar. Wait again until all fours on the ground and then exit the kennel with the dog on the
leash. Please exit to the outside through the closest or least crowded door.
If you notice your dog has pooped in their kennel and it has not been taken care of, please use a
mutt mitt to pick it up and dispose of it in the work room connected to the dorm room. If the
poop is smeared or you are not able to pick it up with a mutt mitt, please let a staff member
know so they can clean it up.
19Kennel Card Example:
Outside Areas
There are two small play yards to the right of the outside play yards. These should be used for
smaller dogs. There are other larger play yards next to these two smaller ones that are available
to take dogs to play with off leash. We also have three larger play yards that have higher
fencing that may be use. Please note that if you have a kennel jumper, they will need to stay on
leash at all times. Please use the mutt mitts to clean up after your dog in the play yards. If you
cannot pick up the mess or it has smeared on the turf, let a staff member know so they can go
clean that area.
Kennel Play Yards
Dogs under 6 months are NOT walked outside.
Dogs must be kept on a leash in the Get Acquainted yards, except when they are in the offleash
areas in a play yard (unless they are kennel jumpers).
No shelter dogs may play together or be in physical contact with one another when outside
their kennel living space. This rule is in place to decrease the spread of illnesses such as kennel
cough and to decrease the possibility of dog fights. Some dogs may react poorly even to a dog it
shares a kennel with.
20Walking Dogs
If you would like to take a dog for a walk, please be sure to work with staff to make sure
walking equipment fits correctly and that staff are aware you are taking the dog for a walk. This
will help make sure everyone knows where all dogs are at all times. Dogs can be walked up and
down Hackamore St., but shouldn’t be walked down Overland due to how busy it is.
To get to Bird St. to start your walk, please exit through the fenced gate door between the black
fenced play yards and then taller fenced play yards towards the back side of the building. If the
fence gate door is not unlocked, please ask staff to unlock it.
Inside Areas
We have two playrooms and two get acquainted rooms in the kennel area. Before taking a dog
into these areas, please check for other dogs in these areas. They may be used as
decompression rooms for some of our kennel stressed dogs. Feel free to use toys and treats
from the enrichment room located between the TLC and Kennel Cough dorms.
You are always welcome to go into a dog’s kennel and spend time with them there.
Please note, puppies 6 months and younger must always be carried due to not being fully
vaccinated for parvovirus. You should ask staff before taking puppies out of their kennels.
Bites and Fights
If an animal bites and breaks the skin: Report the incident immediately to the Customer Service
Desk or the Front Desk at either of our two locations. Reporting a bite is extremely important to
make sure that no one else is injured. Failure to report a bite is a ground for termination of your
volunteer status.
IF A DOG FIGHT OCCURS DO NOT REACH IN OR ATTEMPT TO BREAK-UP THE FIGHT!
If a dog fight breaks out, it is your job as a volunteer to alert shelter staff who have been
specially trained and equipped to stop a dog fight. You can get assistance at the front desk, the
customer service desk, or any animal care attendant working in the kennels. They are equipped
with radios to get more assistance very quickly.
Please ask everyone in the area to go inside the building or away from the area where the dogs
are fighting. The shelter has veterinarians that can treat dogs for injuries at both sites, BUT if
one of the dogs accidentally bites you if you try to reach in to the fight, that dog will most likely
be euthanized. Although dog fights can seem very scary, they are rarely deadly for the dogs
involved. Dog fights tend to look and sound must worse than they really are. If you get involved
and get bit, the end result will be much worse for the dogs in the fight. Reaching into a dog
fight is grounds for termination of your volunteer status.
21Kennel Customer Service Information
Feel free to speak with customers about the dogs you have walked or spent time with and be
sure to talk about all the great qualities they have! If you don’t know the answer to a
customer’s question, please refer them to a staff member.
Potential adopters are encouraged to visit dogs in Dorms 1-6. Have them look through the
windows and read about each dog outside of their dorm. If they are interested in meeting a
specific dog, they will need to go ask for assistance from a staff member at the customer
service desk.
Outside of their kennels, all dogs must stay on a leash unless they are in the off-leash runs in a
dog yard.
No children under 16 years old should be handling the leash.
Dog Adoptions
When someone is ready to adopt a dog, they will go to the customer service desk and tell a
staff member they are ready to adopt “Name of dog”. The staff member will then walk the
customer up to the front desk and explain to them that the front desk will call the name of the
dog when they are ready to check them out. Once they have fully adopted the dog, the front
desk staff will radio to the kennel staff to bring “name of dog” up because they have been
adopted. The dog will then leave with new adopters. Since the adoptable dogs are all
spayed/neutered and vaccinated; they can go home the day they’re adopted.
Didn’t find the right dog: If potential adopters didn’t find the dog that suits them in the kennels,
remind them that we get in new dogs every day. There are also dogs in foster care that they
may be interested in adopting. They can find out about available foster dogs on our website at
www.idahohumanesociety.org .
22Cost of dogs
Fees for dogs vary at IHS due to a number of reasons. They usually run from $35-$300. Dogs
with higher adoption fees are either purebreds, puppies or smaller dogs that are in high
demand. They are quickly adopted, even with their higher fees. Their adoption fees allow them
to act as benefactors to other dogs. Their fees can help give other dogs more time or special
medical care and a better chance at adoption.
Adoption fees cover the dog’s spay or neuter surgery. It also includes a dog’s first set of shots,
including rabies and an identification microchip. The dog’s license fee will need to be paid in
addition to the adoption fee.
When dogs are relinquished by their owners, they are encouraged to fill out a questionnaire
describing the behaviors and personality of the animal. When a dog comes to the shelter as a
stray, we usually don’t know very much information about them. Sometimes their behavior at
the shelter can tell us whether a dog is good with other dogs or likely housebroken. Any
information we know about the dog is found on the dog’s kennel card. If there’s no card on
the kennel, the customer service or front desk can look up this information on the computer.
We do have discounted adoptions for qualifying seniors who are adopting animals. Check with
the front desk for more information on this program.
If a dog a customer adopts doesn’t work out at their home, they can always return their
adopted dog to IHS at the Dorman St. location. If they return the dog within 30 days, they can
get a credit certificate of their adoption fee or a full refund (but not for any additional
veterinary procedures the own chose to do) for use later at the Adoption Center or Clinic.
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Cattery Customer Service Information
Feel free to speak with customers about the cats you have spent time with and be sure to talk
about all the great qualities they have! If you don’t know the answer to a customer’s question,
please refer them to a staff member.
A person needs to be at least 12 years old in order to open up a kennel to play with cat in
kennel. To hold cats by themselves, volunteer in the cattery and/or catios alone, they must be
at least 16 years old.
Customers are welcome to open cages, pet and hold cats that they are considering to adopt.
Some cats welcome being picked up while others may scratch if stressed and handled. Anyone
handling cats should be gentle and use caution. The Shelter is a stressful situation for all
animals.
Always wash your hands before handling any cats at the shelter and in-between handling
different cats at the shelter. This helps keep the spread of diseases to a minimum.
Spend time petting a cat before you attempt to pick it up. Some cats prefer to only be pet in
their cage. Volunteers can keep the cats happy and content through interaction, enrichment,
and cleaning cages. Below are several tasks for volunteers to work on in the cattery. Remember
to sanitize your hands often.
• Interact with the cats in a loving way by petting, holding and socializing them.
• Supplies: Cardboard litter boxes, food, wood pellet litter, and newspaper can be found
in the Cattery station. If you notice we are running low on supplies, please ask a staff
member to show you where we keep the supplies to restock this area.
• Water: Refill water dishes for cats. Kittens tend to knock over their water, so only fill
their dishes about ½ full.
• Food: Shelter cats are supplied with a full dish of food in their cage all day. If a cat has
eaten most of its food, you can refill it at the Cattery Station.
• Dirty Cages: If a cat has a used litter box or torn and spoiled newspaper lining their cage,
you can clean up the mess to help the cattery stay more pleasant for felines and
humans.
• Empty Trash: Take the full trash out through the garage to the dumpster.
• Restock Supplies: If shelves are empty, refill.
28Cat Adoptions
When someone is ready to adopt a cat, they will let a cattery staff member know. The staff
member will then walk the customer up to the front desk and explain to the adopters that the
front desk staff will call the name of the cat when they are ready to check them out. Once they
have fully adopted the cat, the front desk staff will radio to the cattery staff to bring “name of
cat” up because they have been adopted. The cat will then leave with new adopters. Since the
adoptable cats are all spayed/neutered and vaccinated; they can go home the day they’re
adopted
If a customer didn’t find the right cat, remind them that we get new cats in each week. There
are also cats and kittens in foster care that they may be interested in adopting. They can find
out about available foster cats on our website.
The adoption fees for the cats vary from $10-$75.
• $75 for kittens 8 weeks to 16 weeks old
• $40 for cats 17 weeks to 4 years old
• $25 for cats 5 to 8 years old
• $10 for cats 8 years or older
The adoption fee includes a cat’s spay or neuter surgery. It also includes a cat’s first set of shots
(does not include Feline Leukemia or Feline AIDs) and an identification microchip. Additional
expenses to be expected with adoption include any additional veterinary services the owners
decide to do.
When cats are relinquished by their owners, they are encouraged to fill out a questionnaire
describing their behaviors and personality of the animal. Generally a cat only goes into the
cattery if it’s using its litter box. Any information we know about whether the cat is litter box
trained or good with kids, cats, or dogs can be found on the cat’s kennel card. If there is no
card, please check with the front desk or staff member to find the information.
IHS does have a discount adoption program for qualifying seniors. Check with the front desk
regarding the current policy.
Just like for dogs, customers who adopt a cat and it doesn’t work out, they may bring the cat to
Dorman St. to return. Adopters can get a credit certificate of their adoption fee or a full refund
(but not for any additional veterinary procedures the owner chose to do) for use later at the
Shelter or Clinic.
IHS does not declaw cats. It is considered inhumane practice that can be painful to the cat and
cause behavior problems such as biting and not using the litter box. However, we do receive
cats frequently that are declawed that may be adopted.
29Sample Cat Card:
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Small Animals
Our small animals up for adoption are located near our front desk and store at our Bird. St.
Campus. We primarily receive rabbits, guinea pigs, gerbils, rats, mice and birds.
If you would like to help out in our Small Animal room, please speak with the kennel staff
before cleaning.
Cleaning rabbit and guinea pig enclosures
To clean a cage in the Small Animal room, you should remove the animal from the enclosure
and place in cardboard box.
Remove all soiled bedding/linens and use the shop vacuum if needed which is located in the
workroom connected to the Small Animal room.
Empty litter box and replace with fresh litter, wipe out if needed
Empty food/water bowls, wipe out if needed
Wipe down enclosure with sanitizer and dry with wash cloth and replace bedding/linens
Replace litter box (make sure there is hay in the litter box)
Sweep and mop floors if a mess was made
32Health and Safety
Accident Policy
Accidents that result in injury, including bites and scratches, regardless of how insignificant the
injury may appear, must be reported to a staff member immediately. Such reports are
necessary to help us monitor the health and wellbeing of our pets. This does not automatically
mean any negative consequence for the animal; however, we need to know the situation in
order to properly address it.
As stated in the volunteer waiver you signed, you are assuming the risks of volunteering at IHS.
This includes work that may be hazardous to the volunteer, including, but not limited to dog
and/or cat handling, lifting heavy objects, bending, standing for extended periods of time,
exposure to cleaning chemicals and transportation to and from off-site events. In your waiver,
you expressly and specifically assumed the risk of injury or harm in the activities and released
IHS from all liability for injury, illness, and death or property damage resulting from the
activities on or off site IHS.
Rendering First Aid
For minor injuries, a “self” aid kit is available for sure at both facilities. If you are not capable of
administering “self” aid to yourself, the injury should be treated by a medical facility or physician.
Rendering first aid to another individual is not a requirement of any IHS volunteer. This policy does
not prohibit a volunteer from unilaterally rendering assistance to anyone in need, but if you choose
to provide first aid to another, you do so at your own risk.
The Idaho Humane Society encourages volunteers to obtain training in human lifesaving (such as Red
Cross CPR classes). The Idaho Humane Society does not provide this training as a requirement of
volunteering. However, the Idaho Humane Society does provide personal protective equipment for
those qualified to perform First Aid, and protection for blood borne pathogens. Bodily fluid clean up
kits can be found by the “self” aid kits at the front desk of the shelter. These should be used when
cleaning up any human bodily fluid. e.g blood or vomit.
First aid kit locations:
Bird St. -There are first aid kits located in the Volunteer Workroom located in the top left cupboard
near the desk space with the phone, in the hallway near the door to the garage, and at the front
desk.
Dorman St. -There is a first aid kit located in the hallway near the breezeway into the cattery.
If you sustain an injury or are involved in an accident requiring minor first aid treatment:
Inform a staff member.
Administer treatment to the injury or wound.
Access to a “self” aid kit is not intended to be a substitute for medical attention.
Provide details for the completion of the Incident Report.
33Non-Emergency Medical Treatment
If you sustain an injury requiring treatment other than “self” aid:
Inform a staff member.
Proceed to an urgent care medical facility. A staff member can help with transportation is
necessary.
Provide details for the completion of the accident report.
Emergency Medical Treatment
If you sustain a severe injury requiring emergency treatment:
Call for help and seek assistance for a staff member.
Have staff member call 911 to request assistance and transportation to the local hospital
emergency room.
Provide details for the completion of the incident report.
LIFTING PROCEDURES
1. Plan the move before lifting; remove obstructions from your chosen pathway.
2. Test the weight of the load before lifting by pushing the load along its resting surface.
3. If assistance is required to perform a lift, coordinate and communicate your movements with
those of your coworker.
4. Position your feet 6 to 12 inches apart with one foot slightly in front of the other.
5. Face the load.
6. Bend at the knees and keep your back straight.
7. Get a firm grip on the object with your hands and fingers. Use handles when they are present.
8. Do not lift anything if your hands are greasy or wet.
9. Hold objects as close to your body as possible.
10. Perform lifting movements smoothly and gradually; do not jerk the load.
11. If you must change direction while lifting or carrying the load, pivot your feet and turn your
entire body. Do not twist at the waist.
12. Set down objects in the same manner as you picked them up, except in reverse.
13. Do not lift an object from the floor to a level above your waist in one motion. Set the load
down on a table or bench and then adjust your grip before lifting it higher.
34Heat Stroke/Exhaustion
During the summer months, the heat index can be very high. If you are working outdoors,
please recognize your limitations. Come in to rest, hydrate, and cool down.
During winter months, if you are working outdoors, take frequent breaks inside to warm up and
rest.
Strains and Sprains
Strains and sprains are two of the most common types of injuries. More than 40 percent of all work-
related injuries involve the overuse or misuse of joints, ligaments, and muscles. You can reduce your
chances of injuring yourself by following these tips:
1. Warm up before any vigorous or demanding physical activity.
2. Take care not to overexert. If something is too heavy or too far away to reach, get help or find a
safe way to do the task.
3. Size up a load before you lift or move it.
4. Keep your work or activity area free from slips, trips, and falls.
5. Use the right posture to perform tasks: as much as possible, keep your wrist straight, elbows
slightly bent and below shoulder level, and back erect.
6. Try to take mini-breaks. Even one minute of rest can make a difference by relieving tired
muscles and joints. If possible, change your posture frequently as you work.
7. Arrange your work area to prevent having to overreach, twist your body, or use other awkward
postures.
Slips and Falls
At the Idaho Humane Society, slips and falls have caused serious injuries. We can eliminate slips and
falls by consistently following these precautions:
1. Clean up spilled grease, feces, urine and liquids immediately. Pick up dropped food before
someone slides and falls.
2. Report slippery floors, and warn others of presence of spills. Do not walk on a freshly
washed floor until it is dry. Use caution signs or cones to barricade freshly mopped floors.
3. Report icy sidewalks in the winter that may have been overlooked. Icy sidewalks are to be
salted before the shelter opens in the morning.
4. Do not kick objects out of your pathway; pick them up or push them out of the way.
5. Use the handrails when ascending or descending stairs or ramps. Do not run on stairs or take
more than one step at a time. Do not jump from ladders or step stools.
Fire Safety
While the Fire Department has the primary responsibility for fighting fires, each employee has the
responsibility of being alert to possible fire hazards. All firefighting apparatus always shall be kept in a
ready condition and accessible.
Bird St. Fire Safety Procedures:
1. When the Fire Alarm sounds, evacuate the building. Leave animals in their kennels, unless
you have an animal in your hands or on leash already.
352. Evacuate the building through any fire door exit and congregate on the sidewalks across the
street (west side of building) in the parking lot of the strip mall and Wendy’s.
3. If you discover a fire: 1) Remove anyone in danger; 2 Call 911; 3) Activate the fire alarm pull
station (located by all exits in the building) as you evacuate the building.
1st floor Adoption Center fire extinguisher locations:
Garage near workbench
Laundry room
Lobby- near door to security office
Outside education room
2nd floor Adoption Center fire extinguisher locations:
Across conference room near bathrooms
Hallway near server room
Furthest corner near outside dog play yards (North East corner of building
Clinic fire extinguisher locations:
Hallway near kitchenette
Treatment area hallway to lobby
(See shelter maps for more details).
4. Combustible products of rubbish waste or other residues shall not be allowed to collect. Oil
soaked rags and similar materials subject to spontaneous combustion shall be stored only in
noncombustible containers with self-closing lids.
5. Flammable liquids shall not be stored in aisles or walkways and shall be located so there will
be no interference with evacuation of the area in case of fire.
6. No smoking is allowed in the building. Cigarette butts, matches or other similar materials
shall not be discarded without fully extinguishing them. Ash trays, cigarette butts or matches
shall only be disposed of in approved noncombustible containers.
7. No gasoline, flammable solvents or liquids shall be stored inside buildings, except in
approved flammable storage containers.
Dorman St. Fire Safety Procedures:
1. When the Fire Alarm sounds, evacuate the building. Leave animals in their kennels, unless
you have an animal in your hands or on leash already.
2. Evacuate the building through any fire door exit and congregate on the sidewalks across the
street in the parking lot of the strip mall and Wendy’s.
3. If you discover a fire: 1) Remove anyone in danger; 2) Activate the fire alarm pull station ; 3)
Call the fire department – emergency 911 4) Evacuate the building.
364. Combustible products of rubbish waste or other residues shall not be allowed to collect. Oil
soaked rags and similar materials subject to spontaneous combustion shall be stored only in
noncombustible containers with self-closing lids.
5. Flammable liquids shall not be stored in aisles or walkways and shall be located so there will
be no interference with evacuation of the area in case of fire.
6. No smoking is allowed in the building. Cigarette butts, matches or other similar materials
shall not be discarded without fully extinguishing them. Ash trays, cigarette butts or matches
shall only be disposed of in approved noncombustible containers.
7. No gasoline, flammable solvents or liquids shall be stored inside buildings, except in approved
flammable storage containers.
Lockdown and Active Shooter
In the event of a lockdown, all persons should shelter in place. Move away from windows and
doors. Do not let anyone in or out of the building including the public.
Should there need to be an evacuation due to an Active Shooter – get out! All employees should
congregate by the Walmart Pick Up area if at Bird St. and the Gowen Air Force Base for Dorman if
needed. Do not get into cars and leave until you have been told to do so by a supervisor.
All employees need to be accounted for in order to be able to give an all clear of the building
Compassion Fatigue
Compassion fatigue is the potential consequence of stress resulting from caring for and helping
traumatized or suffering people or animals, and is especially prevalent in those who have a direct
role in euthanizing animals in shelters.
The symptoms of compassion fatigue can include:
Recurrent nightmares
Flashback episodes
Intense psychological distress at exposure to cues that symbolize or resemble an aspect of
the traumatic event
Restricted range of feelings (i.e.blocking feelings)
Difficulty falling or staying asleep
Irritability or outbursts of anger
Difficulty concentrating
Hyper-vigilance and exaggerated startle response
According to psychologists, factors which impact the severity of traumatic stress (compassion
fatigue) include: the duration of the experience; the potential for reoccurrence; the degree of
exposure to death and dying; the degree of moral conflict inherent in the situation; and the extent
to which the role is direct or indirect. All of these factors are present in clinic employees’ jobs and
sometime in Bird St. Animal Care Attendants:
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