Volunteer Handbook

317-520-2729 www.pawsandthink.org

Dear Volunteer, Welcome to Paws and Think, Inc., and thank you for volunteering! Our volunteers are the backbone of our organization, and because of you, we are able to make a huge difference in the lives of those we serve. Volunteers bring a wealth of skills, knowledge, and experience that allows Paws and Think to provide services and programs that would not otherwise be possible. From our YouthCanine Programs to our Animal Assisted Activities, volunteers are our biggest champions and one of our greatest assets. We hope that you find your volunteer experience with us to be fulfilling and rewarding. This handbook will help you have the best possible experience as a volunteer. It answers frequently asked questions and gives information about the organization, our programs, and your role. We cannot be successful without you. Thank you in advance for helping improve lives through the power of the human-dog connection. Welcome aboard! Sincerely, Kelsey Burton Executive Director

Revised 02.09.2016

Page 2

TABLE OF CONTENTS _________________________________________________________________________________________________ WHO WE ARE AND WHAT WE DO .................................................................................................... 5 MISSION, VISION & HISTORY ............................................................................................................. 5 Our Mission: ..................................................................................................................................................... 5 Our Vision: ......................................................................................................................................................... 5 Our Programs Serve: .................................................................................................................................... 6 We do so through our innovative programs: .................................................................................. 6 The History of Paws & Think:.................................................................................................................. 6 Our Core Values Are: .................................................................................................................................... 7 GETTING STARTED AS A VOLUNTEER ............................................................................................ 7 Orientation........................................................................................................................................................ 7 Training: ............................................................................................................................................................. 7 THE ROLES OF OUR VOLUNTEERS ................................................................................................... 8 Youth – Canine Programs .......................................................................................................................... 8 Animal-Assisted Activities / Animal-Assisted Therapy Programs ...................................... 8 Reading Education Assistance Dogs® (R.E.A.D.) Program ...................................................... 9 Events and Opportunities for Everyone ............................................................................................ 9 COMMITMENT AND REQUIREMENTS: .......................................................................................... 10 Commitment: ................................................................................................................................................ 10 Volunteers Should:..................................................................................................................................... 10 PUBLIC RELATIONS............................................................................................................................. 10 VOLUNTEER RESPONSIBILITIES .................................................................................................... 11 VOLUNTEER RIGHTS .......................................................................................................................... 12 Nondiscrimination Policy....................................................................................................................... 12 Harassment Policy ..................................................................................................................................... 12 GENERAL PRACTICES ......................................................................................................................... 13 Background Check ..................................................................................................................................... 13 Volunteer Image/Dress Code ............................................................................................................... 13 SCHEDULING AND ATTENDANCE ................................................................................................... 14 Scheduling ...................................................................................................................................................... 14 Attendance ..................................................................................................................................................... 14 Recording Your Donated Hours .......................................................................................................... 14 SAFETY PROCEDURES ........................................................................................................................ 14 POLICIES AND PROCEDURES ........................................................................................................... 15 Volunteer Guidelines ................................................................................................................................ 16 Delivering Animal-Assisted Interactions ....................................................................................... 17 Therapy Teams Must Agree to These Policies & Procedures .............................................. 19

Revised 02.09.2016

Page 3

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS.................................................................................................. 21 VOLUNTEER ACKNOWLEDGEMENT .............................................................................................. 23 APPENDICES .......................................................................................................................................... 24 A - PROGRAMS ...................................................................................................................................... 25 Our Youth-Canine Programs................................................................................................................. 25 Our Animal-Assisted Activity & Programs .................................................................................... 26 B – OTHER AFFILIATIONS ................................................................................................................. 28 Reading Education Assistance Dogs R.E.A.D. ® .......................................................................... 28 AKC Therapy Dog ........................................................................................................................................ 28 Indianapolis Animal Welfare Alliance ............................................................................................. 28 C – PEOPLE FIRST ................................................................................................................................ 29 D - VENUES ............................................................................................................................................. 30

Revised 02.09.2016

Page 4

WHO WE ARE AND WHAT WE DO _________________________________________________________________________________________________ Paws and Think, Inc. is a values-driven 501(c) (3) charitable organization incorporated in October of 2001.   

We serve the Central Indiana community, especially children and adults having challenges, disabilities or special needs. We also serve dogs in peril of euthanasia. We are a volunteer-based, community organization. We work in partnership with schools, detention centers, youth agencies and humane societies, shelters and rescue groups. We are a part of the Indianapolis Animal Welfare Alliance. We strive to be the key agency in Central Indiana for mutually beneficial animalassisted intervention programs that promote the human-animal bond.

MISSION, VISION & HISTORY _________________________________________________________________________________________________ Our Mission: Improving lives through the powers of the human-dog connection. Our Vision: Paws & Think is a non-profit organization focusing on the at-risk community, both human and canine. Our vision is to instill pride and confidence in those we serve. We do this with two proven methods; one of training and providing therapy teams for both animal-assisted activities and animal-assisted therapies to youth, seniors and special needs individuals of all ages. The second method is our Youth–Canine programs that facilitate classes for at-risk youth and teens, helping them to train shelter dogs with positive reinforcement methods. The young people learn responsibility, job readiness, anger management, parenting skills, leadership and positive life skills, while at the same time increasing the dog’s chances of adoption because of the basic obedience skills learned. Pride and confidence are found as a result of both aspects of our vision.

Revised 02.09.2016

Page 5

Our Programs Serve:    

Youth who are academically or behaviorally challenged, incarcerated, at risk of suicide, pregnant and single or who lack a positive self-image Children and adults with physical, emotional or behavioral disabilities or other special needs Stray, surrendered or neglected dogs at risk of euthanasia, and The communities in which these groups reside

We do so through our innovative programs: These are explained in detail in Appendix A.

  

Our Youth-Canine Programs for youth who are in some way challenged Our Animal-Assisted Activity and Animal-Assisted Therapy Programs Our Reading Education Assistance Dog® (R.E.A.D.) Programs

The History of Paws & Think: The organization was founded by Gayle Hutchens, RN, MSN. When asked how she conceived the idea for the organization, Gayle said, “When my husband was diagnosed with a serious illness, I knew I had to make a career change. I was looking for something with kids or animals or healing.” When she told this to a friend at church, she said “God is bigger than that…you need to do all three!” Shortly after that conversation, Gayle saw Oprah give Bonnie Bergin the “Use Your Life Award” for her similar program in Santa Rosa, California and knew she had found her answer. ”I contacted Bonnie to see if I could intern with her and the rest, as they say, is history.” Dr. Bergin is the founder of the assistance dog concept, Canine Companions for Independence and the Assistance Dog Institute. Gayle earned her Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing from DePauw University and her Master of Science Degree in Nursing from Indiana University. She was a member of Sigma Theta Tau and Pi Lambda Theta honorary societies. Gayle was formerly the Director of the Mother-Baby Care Program at Clarian Health Partners (now Indiana University Health) and held teaching as well as clinical and administrative positions for Clarian, the Indiana University Medical Center and the Indiana University School of Nursing. She has consulted in Brazil and Kenya as well as the United States. In August 2011, our founder, our inspiration and our friend, Gayle Chadwick Hutchens, passed away. Her memory continues to inspire the many, many individuals whose lives were touched by her selfless generosity and kindness.

Revised 02.09.2016

Page 6

Our Core Values Are:       

Respect for self and others Effective decision-making Affiliation and inclusion Commitment and follow-through Responsibility and dependability Pride in achievement Life balance (work, fun, humor)

We are also committed to research that enhances the benefits of the human-animal connection.

GETTING STARTED AS A VOLUNTEER ___________________________________________________________________________________ Orientation New volunteer orientation sessions are scheduled throughout the year, alternating between various areas of Indianapolis. As a new volunteer you will learn more about Paws & Think at orientation. You will also become familiar with the standards and expectations of volunteers. To serve the organization and uphold our mission we expect that all volunteers will complete the orientation to be fully trained. Training:   

Attend new volunteer orientation within the first four months of becoming a volunteer Volunteers will receive notice regarding both educational and volunteer activities to provide everyone an opportunity to select the activities most suited to their interests. Volunteers wishing to participate with their dog will be required to pass the Paws & Think evaluation every two years. Classes are offered to assist both those new to therapy and those wishing more advanced training. Remediation class will also be offered to those renewing or after a significant lapse in volunteering. Please refer to the website for upcoming class dates.

Registered therapy teams wishing to pursue Animal-Assisted Activities or Animal-Assisted Therapy are required to shadow (without your pet partner) any regular venue prior to signing up for that venue. This allows you to be confident that you and your pet are a good fit for the environment and have the skills required.

Revised 02.09.2016

Page 7

THE ROLES OF OUR VOLUNTEERS ___________________________________________________________________________________ Youth – Canine Programs          

Assist our trainer in selection and temperament testing of shelter or rescue dogs for our programs Assist the youth instructor by helping the children apply the positive, reward-based training techniques to their dogs Transport a dog to and from one of our Youth Programs Assist the youth in creating kennel cards (for posting at our partnering shelter) Provide snacks and keepsakes or certificates to recognize the participants at the conclusion of the training Take appropriate photographs of our programs Help with instruction of youth programs, such as teaching a particular class. Examples are grooming, safety around strange dogs or reading the body language of dogs Give instruction for a cycle of classes Help with related errands, such as purchasing supplies, preparing dog treats (kibble, cheese, hotdogs) Assist with scheduling programs within a site (dates that work for class site and shelter for example)

Animal-Assisted Activities / Animal-Assisted Therapy Programs Take your Paws & Think registered dog or assist therapy teams to interact with children and adults in many settings, including these examples:         

Help with the rehabilitation of injured veterans and others by assisting in physical therapy, recreational therapy or one of the other capacities requested by our partners at participating hospitals and medical centers Assist children through the grieving process in an upbeat structured program Help a senior reconnect with the world through the affection of your pet Provide comfort to patients and visitors in a hospital or residential group setting Assist with training classes and evaluations Visit a classroom to demonstrate and talk about the difference between a therapy dog and a service dog; talk about dog safety Provide a Paws to Read opportunity at a library or bookstore Train in the R.E.A.D. program and become a school Paws to Read team Support Hospice through individual and family grief support

Revised 02.09.2016

Page 8

Reading Education Assistance Dogs® (R.E.A.D.) Program      

Become a member of Reading Education Assistance Dogs Learn to improve a child’s reading skills, comprehension and self-esteem by partnering with your dog while a child reads to him Volunteer in a Paws to Read program in a library or school with your dog Be a school coordinator for the Paws to Read program (no dog needed) Assist with gathering and analyzing test and assessment results (no dog needed) Be a Reading Buddy at a school program (no dog needed)

Events and Opportunities for Everyone             

Chair or volunteer for a committee such as events, fundraising, marketing & public relations, hospitality, volunteer recognition, program development, grant writing and many others Help maintain our database Volunteer to participate in our Outreach Program, sharing Paws & Think with interested organizations and demonstrating the power of the human-animal bond Assist with managing our social media and keeping our website, Facebook, etc. up to date Gather surveys and assess results Assist with or lead Volunteer Orientation meetings Become a Reading Buddy, assisting with the R.E.A.D. school programs by escorting kids to and from class and assuring each child has the scheduled amount of time with the dog Become a school liaison, helping to maintain the relationship between the school, the R.E.A.D. teams and Paws & Think Volunteer for a session of the Youth-Canine program Join in the graduation for the Youth-Canine programs by helping to create kennel cards for the dogs and passing out certificates to the youth Assist at a therapy training class or at evaluations Contribute to the Paws & Think Newsletter and social media by providing articles or photographs Assist with design of event logos, brochures, campaign ads and other materials for Paws & Think.

Revised 02.09.2016

Page 9

COMMITMENT AND REQUIREMENTS: ___________________________________________________________________________________ Commitment:    

A commitment to a particular program should last for the duration of that program. Youth-Canine and school-based programs rely on consistency of both the dogs and the volunteers. We anticipate each volunteer giving 15-20 hours a year either participating with a program or helping behind the scenes with committees or other services. We recommend that Therapy Teams volunteer twice a month to maintain the dog’s socialization and skills. A long duration absence of 6 months or more will require your dog to be re-evaluated at your expense. See Policies & Procedures for greater detail of program commitments and requirements.

Volunteers Should:           

Be personable, patient, flexible, a good communicator and a good listener Have a love for animals Be able to deal with the public in a helpful and supportive manner Be resourceful and able to work independently Be able to represent Paws & Think in a professional manner Demonstrate respect for confidentiality Treat kindly and professionally all animals and individuals in our care Be at least 18 years of age to participate in the Youth-Canine program. Be at least 16 years of age and have signed permission of parent or guardian for participation in Pet Therapy. Junior Handlers must be at least 12 and accompanied by a volunteer parent or guardian Carry your Volunteer ID whenever representing Paws & Think Ensure that therapy dogs wear approved vests or bandannas and collar tag

PUBLIC RELATIONS ___________________________________________________________________________________ The success of our organization depends upon the quality of the relationships between those we serve, Paws & Think volunteers, our partners and the general public. Our customers’ impression of Paws & Think and their interest and willingness to utilize our service is largely formed by the people who serve them. In a sense, regardless of your position, you are Paws & Think’s ambassador. The more goodwill you promote, the more

Revised 02.09.2016

Page 10

the community will respect and appreciate you, Paws & Think and the services we provide.

VOLUNTEER RESPONSIBILITIES ___________________________________________________________________________________ Rights bring with them responsibility. It is essential that you fulfill your part successfully. We ask you to: Be Communicative - Be honest, open and communicative with the Paws and Think Board of Directors and your fellow volunteers. Share your ideas but do not be hurt or resentful if the ideas are not carried out. Seek and accept honest feedback on performance. Remember, constructive feedback can be an opportunity for growth. Be Friendly – Provide an atmosphere of enthusiasm and support with our partner organizations, individuals and dogs. Be Knowledgeable and Resourceful – Be able to provide information and answer questions or know who to go to for needed information. This includes attending training sessions when necessary to maintain competency. Remember, you are representing Paws & Think and need to do so in a professional manner. Be Dependable and Dedicated – Be present and on time as scheduled unless you have notified the activity coordinator and arrangements have been made for a substitute if necessary. View the work as a total commitment of responsibility that requires a definite allotment of time, energy and brain power. Take the commitment seriously enough to participate in planning and evaluating the volunteer program and take advantage of whatever training or learning opportunities are available. Respect Confidential Information - Demonstrate respect for the confidential aspects of the assignment and ensure the dignity and privacy of those we serve. Discretion must be used in discussing your assignment experiences with Paws & Think as you may be exposed to confidential or otherwise personal information. Show Empathy –Be able to deal with diverse groups of people and situations in a sensitive manner without imposing views and judgments. Be Flexible – Demonstrate the ability to “go with the flow.” During practically every activity, you’ll be dealing with something new or different. Policies and procedures will change and evolve. Have a positive outlook.

Revised 02.09.2016

Page 11

VOLUNTEER RIGHTS ___________________________________________________________________________________ As a volunteer of Paws & Think we believe that you are entitled to certain rights and that you accept special responsibilities. This means you have:    

The right to be carefully interviewed and appropriately assigned to a meaningful service. The right to expect training and supervision that will enable you to perform the service well. The right to receive information about the service location and/or position in which you will volunteer. The right to be covered by our Liability Insurance while volunteering for Paws & Think at an approved venue.

Nondiscrimination Policy In order to provide volunteer opportunities to all individuals, there shall be no discrimination based on age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status or any other category protected by local, state or federal laws. If a volunteer has questions or concerns about any type of discrimination, she or he is encouraged to bring these issues to the attention of the Board of Directors. Volunteers can raise concerns without fear of reprisal. Volunteers found to be engaging in any type of discrimination will no longer be permitted to volunteer for the organization. Harassment Policy Paws & Think is committed to an environment and climate in which relationships are characterized by dignity, respect, courtesy and equitable treatment. It is the policy of the organization to provide all volunteers with an environment that is free from all forms of unlawful or unwelcome harassment, including implied or expressed forms of sexual harassment. Paws & Think expressly prohibits any form of harassment on the basis age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status or any other category protected by local, state or federal laws. Any volunteer who feels that she or he has been subjected to harassment of any type whether by another volunteer, staff of a partner organization, staff member or any agent of the organization should promptly report the incident to the Executive Director or a member of the Board of Directors. Paws & Think will conduct any necessary investigation and, depending on the findings, take appropriate action.

Revised 02.09.2016

Page 12

GENERAL PRACTICES _________________________________________________________________________________________________ Background Check A background check is required of all volunteers. This is included in your application fee. Volunteer Image/Dress Code As a representative of Paws & Think you are responsible for creating a favorable impression to support a positive image for our organization. Your appearance should create a feeling of confidence and respect through grooming and attire that is tasteful, neat and clean and of appropriate size. All volunteers are required to dress in a professional-casual manner appropriate to the activity. The following outlines acceptable standard for dress: Attire NOT acceptable at Paws & Think venues: Footwear: flip-flops or similar footwear Apparel: no extremely faded, torn or holey jeans, cut-off shorts, short-shorts. Bare midriffs, halter tops or tank tops Miscellaneous: caps, buttons or apparel with offensive/extreme logos, slogans or other explicit graphics All registered volunteers are given a volunteer ID. We ask that you carry this ID at all times when representing Paws & Think so that you are easily identified. Volunteers may purchase clothing with the Paws & Think logo. It is expected that the volunteer will wear logo clothing at appropriate events and only when clean. Therapy dogs will have a collar tag and wear their bandana or official vest. It is important to respect the dress requirements of any of the venues we visit. For example, hospitals and many nursing homes will require closed-in shoes. Sandals may not be allowed. Check with the volunteer coordinator or the venue if you have any questions.

Revised 02.09.2016

Page 13

SCHEDULING AND ATTENDANCE ___________________________________________________________________________________ Scheduling As you establish yourself in your volunteer assignment, we welcome you as a valued member of our team and grow to depend on you. Scheduling should always be coordinated through Paws and Think, Inc. Volunteers should not attend venues that they have not signed up for, as certain programs limit the number of teams able to participate. Also, volunteers should not attend venues where Paws and Think, Inc. does not have a facility agreement in place to protect both Paws & Think and the volunteer. Attendance  

Volunteers should be prompt for their scheduled programs or meetings If you are unable to attend an activity you are scheduled for, please contact the coordinator or activity chair as far in advance as possible

Recording Your Donated Hours We ask that volunteers record the hours they donate to Paws & Think. Not only does this enable us to recognize volunteers, but the total number of hours donated help us earn grants and other financial support. The number of volunteer hours indicates to supporters the strength of our organization and its ability to complete projects. You can record your hours on our website, www.PawsandThink.org, by clicking on the “Submit Volunteer Hours” link at the bottom of each page or by going directly to this link: http://pawsandthink.org/volunteer/volunteer-hours/

SAFETY PROCEDURES ___________________________________________________________________________________ Paws and Think, Inc. is committed to the safety of all animals, volunteers and program participants. Maintaining a safe work environment requires the continuous cooperation of all. Volunteers must immediately report any unsafe conditions to any member of the Paws and Think Board of Directors. Reporting Incidents In your role as a volunteer there may be times when something occurs that reflects on the organization in a negative way. You may also encounter incidents that put humans or dogs at risk of injury or an accident may occur. Unusual occurrences such as these should be reported using the incident form on the following page.

Revised 02.09.2016

Page 14

INCIDENT REPORT Your immediate concern is your dog; assure that he is safe and secured away from the situation. If anyone is injured get assistance from the facility. Volunteers are not permitted to give medical aid or assistance under any circumstances. Before leaving the facility or event make sure that the incident is reported to proper personnel. Once you are safely home please complete this incident form and report the occurrence to a member of the board. DATE OF REPORT: __________________ DATE & TIME OF OCCURANCE: __________________________ Name and location of Occurrence: ________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________________________ Handler’s Name: ____________________________________________________________________________________ Dog’s Name: ________________________________ Breed: __________________________________ Age: ________ Were any other Paws and Think, Inc. volunteers present? ______________________________________ Who? _________________________________________________________________________________________________ Please provide a detailed description of the incident/unusual occurrence, including any details that may later prove significant: ___________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Was there any injury? Please describe, including any treatment that may have been provided and who the provider was: ______________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Signature _________________________________________________________ Date ______________________________

Revised 02.09.2016

Page 15

POLICIES AND PROCEDURES ___________________________________________________________________________________ Volunteer Guidelines The Volunteer Handbook suggests that you donate at least 15-20 hours per year. To accomplish this you may assist Paws & Think with such things as web-site development, canine training and evaluations, participation in Youth-Canine Programs, work on a committee or task force, being a Reading Buddy or a Hospital Buddy or assist in other ways with grant writing, program planning, event planning and other Paws & Think activities as they come up. 1. Volunteer ID cards are issued and each has an expiration date based on a two year anniversary. Volunteers that have completed the suggested activity hours will be issued new ID cards upon expiration of the old ones. Volunteer therapy teams will be re-evaluated prior to receiving their new ID cards. Refer to the Therapy Dog Manual for more information on re-evaluation requirements. 2. Inactive volunteers and therapy teams will remain in the system but marked as Inactive and will no longer be covered by our insurance. Reinstatement as a volunteer should be done by request to the Executive Director or any Board Member. 3. Volunteer hours must be recorded via the website 4. Volunteers must not make or receive calls or text messages using a cell phone inside a facility. Pagers and cell phones must be set on silent or vibrate while inside a facility. If the use of a phone becomes necessary, handlers must excuse themselves temporarily and complete the call outside the facility. 5. Observe all rules of privacy and confidentiality as required by HIPAA. Never discuss a patient’s health or personal issues with the patient or anyone else. 6. Photos may not be taken without prior written permission of the subject (or guardian) and, in some cases, a representative of the facility. 7. Any volunteer/handler who has had any medical condition change, even if temporary, since initial testing that may impede their ability to safely handle their dog, such as but not limited to: stroke, broken limb, weakened strength, change in disability, change in mental or emotional condition, etc. must notify the volunteer coordinator and may need to be retested, observed or request a Leave of Absence. 8. Do not leave purses or valuables in your car when attending venues. We visit many lower income areas and areas where theft is not uncommon. Protect yourself against this by leaving valuables at home or in your visit bag. Don’t put purses in your trunk at the venue or you risk theft as well as having damage done to your car if anyone sees you and decides to take your belongings from the trunk.

Revised 02.09.2016

Page 16

Delivering Animal-Assisted Interactions The following are also included in the Policies and Procedures for Paws & Think therapy teams: Therapy animal teams are responsible for following these policies and procedures at all times. All registered teams sign an agreement to adhere to these policies and procedures as part of their registration packet. 1. To remain listed as an active therapy team we ask that a sincere effort be made to participate in a minimum of two therapy visits within each month or a minimum of 20 per year. If you or your pet will not be able to attend programs regularly for an extended period of time (more than four months), contact the volunteer coordinator to request a leave of absence. Those taking a leave over four months may need to be re-evaluated. Therapy teams who are inactive for 6 months or more must be reevaluated. 2. All therapy dog teams will need to submit vaccination records annually, including results of a recent fecal examination. 3. All therapy dog teams are to be re-evaluated every two years according to the expiration date on their volunteer ID. 4. Remember that all handlers are required to carry health records for their pets at every Paws & Think program and event. Health records include proof of required vaccinations and a negative result for an annual fecal exam. All therapy dogs should have fecal samples tested every 6 months (honor system). Year-round heartworm prevention and Leptospirosis vaccination is a requirement. 5. Any volunteer therapy team working outside of scheduled venues must obtain approval from the volunteer coordinator for the activities in advance if they are representing themselves as a Paws & Think registered team. They should then also report those volunteer hours. Activity not reported in advance will not be supported by Paws & Think and the individual is responsible for any and all liability or losses that may result from their volunteering. 6. All dogs must be at least one year of age and have lived with the owner for at least 6 months. 7. Junior Handlers must be at least 12 years of age. Handlers younger than 16 must be accompanied by a participating Paws & Think volunteer parent or guardian. Those between 16 and 18 must have written permission to participate from a parent or guardian. Written permission must be provided at the time of the team evaluation and must be submitted with the written test. 8. Dogs must be clean, brushed and free of fleas. The use of flea collars, powders, sprays or dips is not permitted. Any pet using flea drops or dermal heartworm prevention must have the treatment applied a minimum of three days prior to

Revised 02.09.2016

Page 17

attending any therapy programs. Dogs are to be well groomed and nails trimmed for all visits. If you are planning to clip your pet’s nails within a day or two of a program, take extra time to file the nails as well or use a dremel. If you are unable to bathe your dog, please use a product such as Nature’s Miracle Dander Remover and Body Deodorizer and Petzlife’s Bath-Eaze. These will help to lessen the likelihood of any allergic reactions. 9. Do not use treats with peanuts or peanut oil in them around children! This can cause a serious allergic reaction with many young children and reactions can run from mild to fatal with even the slightest exposure. Read your labels or don’t offer treats at all until after the visit. 10. Your pet should be spayed or neutered unless it is actively being shown or is an AKC/CKC registered dog to be used in a breed-club recognized breeding program. 11. All leashes are recommended to be a maximum of 4 feet in length; larger dogs may be placed on shorter leashes such as a traffic lead. Flexi, chain, bungee or coiled type leads are NOT permitted. 12. Dogs may wear fabric martingale-type collars or flat buckle collars, Gentle Leadertype head harnesses or Easy Walk and Freedom harnesses. No metal collar, especially pronged, is permitted under any circumstances. 13. Those Paws & Think volunteers having more than one registered dog must be an active volunteer and demonstrate regular participation of all dogs. Under no circumstances may a volunteer bring more than one Paws & Think therapy dog to a therapy venue. 14. Dogs must be kept at least three feet from other dogs and animals at all times while representing Paws & Think on a visit or at an event. The visit or event begins as soon as you reach the facility property, including the parking lot. If members choose to do group photos with dogs posed closer than 3 feet, they will be done at the members’ own risk. 15. IMPORTANT NOTE: Paws & Think therapy animals are considered pets and not working service animals. You must observe all laws that exclude animals from food and medical establishments (unless providing therapy visits), indoor shopping malls, public transportation and public buildings. Posing a therapy dog as a service dog is illegal as well as a violation of Paws & Think policy.

Revised 02.09.2016

Page 18

Therapy Teams Must Agree to These Policies & Procedures 1. I will abide by all Paws & Think policies and procedures and will adhere to the guidelines as set forth in this manual and associated updates as published on pawsandthink.org or provided by other electronic methods. 2. I will represent the program in a professional manner, including observing rules of privacy and confidentiality, being on time for visits, not being under the influence of illegal drugs/alcohol and being well-groomed and professionally dressed in accordance with facility dress codes. 3. I will visit only with animals registered with Paws & Think and with only one animal at a time. I understand for safety and liability reasons that visiting is not to exceed 2 hours per team per day, except for special circumstances such as residential camps. 4. I will ensure that each facility I visit has a Memo of Understanding on record with Paws & Think assuring that policies and procedures are in place regarding humananimal interactions 5. I will be responsible at all times for my dog, considering its needs and humane care first. 6. I will always stay with my dog and be in control of the situation. I will never tie a dog to people, equipment or furniture while visiting. 7. I will clean up after my dog inside and outside the facility and abide by any facility required clean up rules. 8. For safety, all dogs must wear a collar or harness and be on lead, with the registered handler holding the lead AT ALL TIMES, including breaks.

9. I will only visit in accordance with the Paws & Think health requirements (e.g. healthy team). 10. I understand that Paws & Think strongly recommends dogs not be on a raw protein diet at any time during their role as a therapy animal. Any dog that is on a raw diet should avoid such diets for a minimum of 90 days prior to visiting any hospital, nursing home or other healthcare venue. 11. I understand my dog and I are required to wear our identification badge/tag (in addition to any identification required by the facility) while providing or promoting human-animal interaction as a registered Paws & Think therapy animal team. 12. I will not borrow money or personal items or receive any personal gratuity, gift or tip such as money or jewelry from people I visit. Likewise, I understand it is not routinely acceptable to give gifts to the people I visit, even small ones such as candy, cookies, etc. 13. I will not charge a fee for services in my role as a therapy animal team. 14. In case of an accident or unusual occurrence, I will stop visiting immediately and without reservation report all incidents or rule infractions to Paws & Think,

Revised 02.09.2016

Page 19

following reporting procedures and knowing all information will be treated sensitively and with complete confidentiality. 15. I will not take photographs of people I visit without first obtaining a photo release waiver signed by the client or their guardian and the facility contact if required. 16. I understand I must obtain approved written permission from Paws and Think, Inc. for each proposed usage of the Paws & Think logo, name and/or any copyrighted materials. 17. I understand that the equipment (collar, harness, etc.) that my dog is evaluated in is the equipment he/she is to visit in and that a change in equipment requires a reevaluation. 18. I understand that any time I re-evaluate, the team qualification from that evaluation supersedes any previous evaluation for that team, even if the team has time left prior to the expiration date -- the new team qualification applies. (For example, a “Not Passed” score for a renewing team will cause their term to expire early.) 19. I understand that I must have received formal notification from Paws & Think (e.g. an acceptance or renewal letter and/or updated ID card) of my registration status and accompanying qualification(s) to visit as a registered therapy animal team.

Revised 02.09.2016

Page 20

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS How long is my volunteer term? Terms can be determined based on your availability and desire. For volunteers working directly with the canine programs we ask for a minimum commitment of completion of the program. We would like for our volunteers to consider their affiliation to be ongoing for as long as they are able to contribute. Consistency is important in working with animals and children. Our Volunteer ID cards are issued for two-year terms to better assist Paws & Think with managing the database of volunteers and providing liability insurance coverage only to active, and therefore current, volunteers. Regularly reporting your volunteer hours is critical to demonstrating that you are an active volunteer. What kind of special skills or training do I need to volunteer? None - If you are 18 years or older (12 for Junior Handlers), have 2 to 4 hours a month, know how to have fun, enjoy working with dogs and people, and want to make a difference, then we have a spot for you. We have many positions that do not work directly with animals as well. Why do I have to sign a release form or a waiver? Paws & Think carefully screens volunteers to help ensure that the relationship between volunteers and our dogs will be safe and rewarding for everyone involved. All prospective volunteers are screened through an application, background checks and character references. All information collected is confidential. This is necessary for the protection of the organization and the individual members. Who are the participants with the At-Risk Canine program? Our mission is to enhance the quality of life for the community by using the power of the human-animal bond. Program participants are usually selected by the program sponsors or by request for a program for a particular group. The dogs come from various area shelters and rescue organizations. Volunteers come from the Indianapolis metropolitan area. How will I be notified if the partner organization (training site) closes due to emergency or inclement weather? When a decision has been made to cancel a program due to an emergency, inclement weather or otherwise, Paws & Think will immediately make efforts to contact each volunteer via e-mail or telephone. If there is a question it is always a good idea to check

Revised 02.09.2016

Page 21

our Facebook page or our website for updates, or contact the Paws & Think coordinator that is in charge of the program or event. Can I volunteer with my dog at my child’s school or our neighborhood library? Paws & Think works diligently with our partner organizations to assure our volunteers are in a safe and appropriate environment and that we have an official agreement with the organization or location that specifies the rights and expectations of both parties. Therefore, it is important that you represent yourself and your dog as a Paws & Think team only at those venues recognized. If you volunteer outside of our agreed upon venues you risk not being covered by our liability insurance should any incident occur. For this reason, we ask that you not represent yourself as a volunteer for Paws and Think, Inc. at any other venue without prior arrangement with the therapy coordinator or a member of the Board of Directors. Do I need to carry a Liability Policy with my Homeowners insurance? While we do provide a liability policy to cover our volunteers, we also encourage therapy teams to carry a floater or umbrella policy on their homeowners insurance as well. However well trained, a dog is still a dog and accidents can still occur or even be perceived to have occurred. Please talk with your insurance provider to determine what is best for your particular dog and situation. (Note: Many insurance providers will not cover certain breeds such as the Rottweiler, Doberman Pincer, Pitt Bull Terrier, and the German Shepherd Dog. If your dog is a mix breed you may want to identify it only as such without naming a primary breed. We suggest that you ask your carrier if they blacklist any breeds before asking about additional insurance. There are many carriers that do not hold this prejudice.)

Revised 02.09.2016

Page 22

VOLUNTEER ACKNOWLEDGEMENT I have read, understand and agree to the volunteer guidelines set forth in the Paws & Think Manual. I fully understand and agree that I am providing my services in a volunteer capacity without any expressed or implied promise of salary or employment benefits. I agree to perform my volunteer duties to the best of my ability and to adhere to guidelines detailed in the Volunteer Handbook. I recognize that working with animals places me at physical risk, and I agree to assume that risk. I realize that although Paws & Think has taken all reasonable measures to protect me, accidents and injuries may still occur. Therefore, I hereby completely release and entirely discharge Paws & Think from any and all claims and causes of action of negligence or gross negligence that I or another might have or bring relating to or arising from any injury or damage that I should sustain while assisting Paws & Think or in connection with my volunteer work for Paws & Think. I will not represent that I am a volunteer for, or otherwise affiliated with, Paws & Think other than as permitted by the volunteer guidelines. I will not use the Paws & Think name or logo or written materials prepared by or on behalf of Paws & Think other than as permitted by the volunteer guidelines unless I have been provided express permission to do so by the Executive director or a Board member of Paws & Think.

Volunteer Name (printed) Signature Date Executive Director or Board Member Date

Revised 02.09.2016

Page 23

APPENDICES

Revised 02.09.2016

Page 24

A - PROGRAMS Paws & Think is a non-profit corporation serving Central Indiana’s children and adults, as well as canines at risk of euthanasia. Paws & Think provides programs in partnership with community agencies such as Indy Reads, Families First, Title 1 and alternative schools, detention centers, pregnancy/adoption agencies, humane societies, shelters and rescue organizations. In addition to these we also offer registered Animal-Assisted Activity and Animal-Assisted Therapy teams to schools, hospitals, senior facilities and other locations where the clientele may benefit from animal-assisted intervention.

Our Youth-Canine Programs Our Youth-Canine Programs target youths at-risk of truancy, academic underachievement, self-sabotaging behaviors (e.g. angry outbursts, disruptive behaviors, social isolation) and teen parenthood. The program has also been used to intervene with the copycat chatter that often follows a teen suicide. Our goal is to provide these youths with a program that engages them, provides them with motivation and success in improving their grades and their behavior (e.g. anger management skills, team building, leadership), teaches them job readiness and positive parenting skills and improves their sense of accomplishment and self-worth. They learn these tools by “transfer of learning” as they train their shelter/rescue dogs in basic obedience skills and manners using positive training methods (e.g. operant conditioning). And because their dogs are almost always adopted (and thus spared from euthanasia), the young people are proud of what they have achieved. The classes are provided by a trainer with volunteer support and generally have a ten-youth-tofive-dog ratio. 

 

The Possibilities Program is usually a series of six classes that focuses upon principles of human-canine communication, caretaking responsibilities, leadership, personal-animal safety, positive dog training techniques for basic obedience skills and manners and the celebration of successes for self and teammates. In most cases the dogs are transported from the shelter/rescue organization to the youth facility (e.g. school/alternative school) for these classes. This program is generally for academically and/or behaviorally challenged students The Pregnancy Program is structured like the Possibilities Program with an emphasis on positive parenting skills. These classes may be held for teen mothers and fathers in a school or in a pregnancy-adoption center. The Positive Corrections Program is structured like the Possibilities Program with an emphasis on decision making and problem solving. These classes are generally held in juvenile detention centers.

The programs are evaluated using pre- and post-program measures including attendance, grades, behavioral incidents (behavioral outbursts requiring intervention, suspensions, etc.), canine adoption rate and anecdotal comments from youths, youth advisers, parents (as applicable) and program partners.

Revised 02.09.2016

Page 25

Paws & Think also offers afterschool and summer programs to larger (and usually younger) groups of students. The focus of these programs is on character development, responsible pet ownership and bite prevention as well as canine training using positive techniques. Programs are customized for special education classrooms based upon student needs. For example, a series of three to four classes may focus on canine communication, grooming, manners and training; the goal is transfer of learning to the students. For students with autism, classes may be structured to include grooming, giving the dog sequential commands (e.g. as they hide a Kong), drawing and crafts. Students often touch their bare feet to the dog’s fur for sensory integration. Youth-Canine Programs include In-School Programming, After School Programming and Therapeutic Interventions1. We transport dogs to and from shelter/humane societies to schools and other sites for the purpose of training the youth to train the dogs in basic obedience skills and manners. Through the positive training curriculum the youth learn life skills such as job readiness skills, leadership through relationships, dependability, responsibility, as well as positive parenting skills. They learn about positive motivation as a training tool, progressive discipline, consistency and anger management. All animals used in the youth-canine programs are temperament tested at the participating shelter or humane society.

Our Animal-Assisted Activity & Programs Our Animal-Assisted Activity and Animal-Assisted Therapy programs are based on standards used by other national and international therapy organizations. In evaluating teams (dogs and their owner/handler) who enjoy interacting with others we observe both the dog’s behavior and temperament as well as the interaction between the handler and the pet. As an AAA team you will have many opportunities to participate in reading programs at local libraries, area retirement homes, hospitals, grief therapy and elderly daycare centers. Our Reading Education Assistance Dogs® (R.E.A.D.) provide guided interactions and proven methods in achieving improvement in reading skills and comprehension. We also welcome teams in supporting our community educational booths, special events and outreach programs. We offer therapy team candidates an assessment tool prior to taking our class. This tool allows you to assess your dog’s readiness for taking the evaluation and whether or not classes may help you prepare for the evaluation. Your dog must come to our classes with

1

Definitions: Animal-Assisted Activity (AAA) is frequently referred to as animal visitation and usually occurs as a “meet and greet” encounter. Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) is goal directed for each individual, these goals are documented by a health service professional following each visit.

Revised 02.09.2016

Page 26

good basic obedience skills, (e.g. solid sits, down-stays, loose-leash walking) and get along well with other dogs and all types of people. We use positive reinforcement training methods. We will help you to teach your dog to wait at doors, handle greetings with people and other dogs, how to move around hospital equipment and many other useful and fun things. An evaluation is offered after the last class and allows you and your pet to demonstrate that you are ready for visitation at routine venues. We also offer an advanced class for more complex settings as well as R.E.A.D. workshops to prepare you for in-school AAT programs. We want to set both of you up to succeed, so that you can handle any situation should it arise! Paws & Think will assist you in finding satisfying places for you to visit within our multiple and varied routine and complex venues. These are all coordinated by our Therapy Director. Current venues include (but are not limited to): Brooke’s Place, several library reading programs in Indianapolis and surrounding counties, skilled nursing facilities, Joy’s House, Eskenazi Health and the Roudebush Veterans’ Administration Medical Center. We also partner with schools in providing our R.E.A.D. programs and with counseling centers to provide specific interventions (e.g. children with emotional, developmental, behavioral or mental challenges) and have partnered with churches to implement faith-based animalassisted therapy programs. (See Appendix B)

Revised 02.09.2016

Page 27

B – OTHER AFFILIATIONS Reading Education Assistance Dogs R.E.A.D. ® Paws and Think, Inc. is an affiliate of Reading Education Assistance Dogs. R.E.A.D. workshops will be held throughout the year and training manuals are available at a discount through the R.E.A.D. Coordinator. The training provided will bring a new level of consistency and professionalism in our work with Paws to Read. It will also provide greater visibility for us in growing our programs.

AKC Therapy Dog Paws and Think, Inc. is a recognized Therapy Dog organization. This means that whether your dog is registered as a AKC purebred, with the AKC Purebred Alternative Listing or an AKC Canine Partner (for mixed breeds), you are eligible to earn the various AKC Therapy Dog titles.

Indianapolis Animal Welfare Alliance In January 2013, three local funders, led by the Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust, announced that they are investing more than $2 million into a collaborative effort to enhance animal welfare services, educate pet owners and dramatically increase spay/neuter rates in central Indiana. With the Humane Society of Indianapolis acting as lead agency, the Indianapolis Animal Welfare Alliance will use the funds in three ways: • Increased access to spay/neuter services in underserved areas • Community outreach and education • A region-wide PR campaign called “Love me. Fix me.” focused on spay/neuter services, adoptions and responsible pet ownership. As part of the IAWA, we assist with staffing of the Pet Food Bank several times a year.

Revised 02.09.2016

Page 28

C – PEOPLE FIRST

Revised 02.09.2016

Page 29

D - VENUES

Revised 02.09.2016

Page 30