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VCHS Orientation Manual and Guidelines – 12/19
Page Four
* As a volunteer, we want you to understand that you are providing services in a volunteer capacity
without any expressed or implied promise of salary or employment benefits.
* The use of drugs or alcohol is strictly prohibited while volunteering at the shelter or any sponsored
event. You may not come to the shelter or sponsored event under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
* The Venango County Humane Society is a smoke-free workplace. Smoking is only permitted inside in
your vehicle and never while walking any dogs. Please do not leave any cigarette butts on the
property.
* Your volunteer involvement may be terminated if you do not meet your commitment in an
appropriate manner or fail to adhere to the policies and procedures as dictated by the staff.
* The Surgery Prep Room and the Cat Isolation Rooms are off-limits to volunteers. This is for the
safety of all involved.
* If scheduled, please report for volunteering on time. Please notify the shelter staff if you will be
absent or late. This allows the staff to plan and coordinate duties for the day.
* It is not permissible to bring your spouse, dating partners, children, relatives, friends, or pets to the
shelter while performing volunteer activities.
* Keep your involvement at the shelter confined to your duties and avoid interfering with staff in a
manner that would prevent them from keeping to their schedules.
Confidentiality:
* Volunteers must maintain STRICT CONFIDENTIALITY regarding the animals coming into the shelter
including when the State Dog Warden or Police or officials drop off any animal.
* All names and addresses and personal information of people surrendering animals, adopting
animals or reclaiming animals are to be held in the strictest confidence.
* You are prohibited from posting pictures or comments about all the shelter animals on any social
media and must sign a Social Media form.
Volunteer Disciplinary Procedures:
Being a volunteer is a privilege, not a right. Providing a safe and enjoyable experience is one of the
Venango County Humane Society’s top priorities. The policies are in place to serve as guidelines for
appropriate behavior, confidentiality and safety. If a volunteer commits a violation of the rules or
breaks legal restrictions, formal and informal consequences will apply. If you have difficulties
working with other volunteers or staff, bring the situation to the attention of the shelter
manager or volunteer lead. VCHS has a zero tolerance policy for physical or verbal abuse of any staff
or volunteer and/or animal. All disciplinary procedures will be documented and acted upon
accordingly.