Volunteer Protocols and Safety at Pets Return Home
Congratulations on becoming a volunteer! Your time, energy, and compassion help fearful and forgotten dogs find confidence and love. The dogs — and our team — thank you.
Our goal: to ensure a safe, structured, and rewarding experience for every person and every dog. These guidelines are designed to protect you, the animals, and the sanctuary.
🧥 Dress Code
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Dress comfortably and conservatively. Expect dirt, fur, and fun.
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Closed-toe, hard-soled shoes or boots are required.
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No flip-flops, slippers, thin soles, or heels — terrain is rocky and uneven.
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Wear weather-appropriate gear for sun, rain, or cold.
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Long pants are recommended for hiking with dogs.
💡 Tip: Layers are your best friend! Bring water and sun protection.
🚪 Entry & Access
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Must be 8+ years old. Volunteers under 18 years of age must be accompanied by a parent/guardian.
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If you have unvaccinated dogs at home, wait four weeks after vaccination before volunteering.
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Visits are by appointment only.
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Always sign in and out when you arrive and leave.
🏡 Property Conduct
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Report all incidents (bites, scratches, injuries) immediately.
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Park only in designated areas.
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Work within your physical limits and inform staff of any allergies or injuries.
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Smoking in designated areas only.
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Bring everything with you — no repeated car trips (for containment safety).
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Expect excited greetings — some dogs may jump.
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Avoid crowds with more than 4 dogs at once.
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No rough play or wrestling.
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Treat all dogs fairly; avoid favoritism.
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If a fight begins, don’t intervene — alert staff or use an air horn if provided.
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Don’t train or correct dogs unless directed.
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Notify staff of medical issues or injuries.
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Unsafe conduct or repeated violations may lead to dismissal.
🍖 Treats & Feeding
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Dogs are fed 4Health Grain-Free Chicken only. (available at Tractor Supply).
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Treats must be donations and given under staff supervision.
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No outside food for dogs or humans during visits.
🐕 Personal Pets
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Do not bring personal pets without prior approval.
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Do not bring outside toys, food, or treats without permission.
🚶 Dog Walking
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Trails are walk-only — no running.
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Volunteers under 14 may not walk alone.
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Use PRH-approved leashes/collars/harnesses.
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Clean up after dogs (bags provided).
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Post-surgery dogs (under 7 days) may walk on leash only — no off-leash.
🐾 Kennels & Gates
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Coax dogs into kennels gently; no forcing.
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Latch all gates every time you enter or leave.
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Double-check closures — no loose gates.
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Review kennel cards for each dog (behavior, feeding, medical info).
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Always ask before entering a kennel or yard.
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Approach calmly — no running or rushing.
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Return the dogs to their correct kennel.
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Confirm all gates are closed before leaving an area.
📜 Volunteer Agreement
By signing below, you confirm your understanding and agreement to follow all PRH policies.
You acknowledge:
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Volunteering is unpaid and at-will.
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You assume all risks inherent in animal care.
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You’ll follow PRH policies, treat animals humanely, and represent PRH in a positive manner.
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You’ll not speak publicly or online as a PRH representative without authorization.
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PRH may terminate volunteer service at any time for unsafe or inappropriate conduct.