Volunteer presentation - Lost Dogs Home - North Melbourne

© The Lost Dogs’ Home 2013

Volunteer Dog Enrichment Program

Training SessionPresented by Volunteer and Work Experience

Coordinator

Overview of The Home

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History of The Home

Not-for-profit animal welfare organisation founded in North Melbourne in 1910

Opened in 1913 as the ‘Temporary Home for Lost & Starving Dogs’


The Home todayThe Lost Dogs’ Home is one of Australia’s largest animal shelters handling over 25,000 companion animals across the North Melbourne, Echuca and Cranbourne shelters each year.

Services include: Animal management Shelter and adoption services Veterinary clinic 24/7 ambulance service Acceptance of surrendered pets Volunteer, foster and rescue programs Behaviour modification program Post-adoption training Education of responsible pet ownership


Our mission statement

“To work with the community to promote the welfare of dogs and cats by reducing the number of lost cats and dogs, alleviating their pain and suffering and enhancing the responsible pet ownership and enjoyment of pets.”


Responsible pet ownershipWe promote responsible pet ownership to reduce the number of pets that enter the shelter who are not able to be identified. Our main aim is to reunite lost animals with their owners.

We do this by offering: Mobile microchipping service Discount microchipping events Free National Pet Register ID Tags Desexing and chipping all adopted

animals Educational school visits & tours Working with councils to encourage

registrations


Our shelter procedure Animals arrive to The Lost Dogs’ Home as a lost

(stray) or surrendered (unwanted) pet.

Animals who meet our adoption requirements (based on health & temperament) are desexed, vaccinated, micro-chipped and then put forward for adoption.

Most dogs are adopted within a week. Cats can take longer to be adopted.

StrayHeld in care for 8 days, waiting for

owners to reclaim them

SurrenderedAssessed within 48 hours whether

suitable for adoption


Our foster program

For dogs, puppies, cats and kittens who are close to meeting our adoption criteria, but need a little extra TLC, are placed into foster.

Who do we Foster? kittens and puppies who are

underweight Under-socialised or stressed Injured or recovering from

surgery

After being fostered, the animals are returned to us and put up for adoption.


Positive reward based training

Method Dog is set up to succeed and then

rewarded for performing the good behaviour (positive reinforcement)

Rewards may be in the form of a food treat, verbal praise or anything else which motivates your dog

Benefits Effective - this method successfully

works with many of the dogs at the Home

Humane - does not involve physical punishment or assertion of dominance

Enjoyable - enhances the relationship between dog and handler.


The Lost Dogs’ Home key staff

Melissa JonesVolunteer & Work Experience Coordinator

Foster Coordinator

Trepheena HunterVeterinary Behaviouralist & Behaviour Department Team Leader


Abbey HearndenAdoptions Team Leader

A volunteer’s role

Shelter dogs need preparation to resume life outside of the shelter.

Teaching basic manners and social skills improves their chances of finding a home

Improving the dogs wellbeing for the duration of their stay through exercise, interaction and enrichment.

By helping these dogs learn, you are hugely improving their chances of finding a new home, and making a real difference.


Dogs at The Home

All sizes, ages, breeds and temperaments

Generally mixed breeds Many dogs have only had a

small amount, or no training at all

We don’t always know the full history of the stray dogs which come into the shelter


Canine Body Language


Canine body languageReading a dogs body language is a useful skill which will help you to interact and understand the dogs which you will work with at The Home.

What to look out for: Posture Expressions Vocalisation

When interpreting what the dog is trying to tell you, you must take into account all of the above signals, as well as the dogs current surroundings.


Relaxed and friendly

Relaxed SignalsUsed to communicate when relaxed or happy to be approached

Could include: ‘Smiling’ expression (open

mouth) Ears forward or relaxed Relaxed eyes and body

position Tail wagging low or relaxed Respiration normal


Playful

Playful SignalsThe playbow: an invitation to play

Could include: ‘Playbow’ position: Front

end lowered by bent forepaws, back end raised

Tail up and waving Accompanied by playful

attacks and retreats Excited barks or yelps


Alert or aroused

Alert or aroused signalsThe dog is communicating he is paying attention, or assessing a situation to determine if action should be taken

Could include: Ears pricked or forward Eyes wide Mouth closed Body still, leaning forward

slightly


Appeasement behaviour

Submissive SignalsThe dog is communicating he surrenders or submits to his lower status.

Could include: Rolls onto back exposing

stomach Eyes partly closed or

squinting Tail tucked between legs Ears back Turning head to avoid eye

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Confident-assertive behaviour

The dog is communicating he is the ‘boss’, asserting a higher status.

Could include: Head raised, ears pointing

forward Standing over the other

dog Mouth closed Stiff ‘tall’ posture, hackles

may be raised


Fearful or timid

Fearful or Worried SignalsThe dog is communicating he is fearful and attempting to pacify the situation to avoid further conflict

Could include: Body lowered or hunched Indirect eye contact Tail tucked or low Paw raised

A dog who is very fearful or nervous can react with aggression if felt threatened


Stress signalsStress SignalsThe dog is communicating his current situation is making him feel uncomfortable or uneasy

Could include: Lip and nose licking Yawning Heavy panting Eyes partly closed or

squinting Tenseness over

eyebrows/showing the whites of his eye

Ears lowered but relaxed Turning head to avoid eye

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Responding to the signalsA good relationship between you and the dog will depend on your ability to interpret the dogs body language and respond appropriately .

If a dog is showing stressed or worried signals: Crouch down sideways when

greeting the dog Avoid direct eye contact Use a soft voice Gently stroke the dog under the

chin or the side of the chest Avoid making the dog feel

cornered Avoid patting the dog directly on

top of the head


Dog Enrichment Program


Summary of daily program1. Remember to wear your volunteer badge and high visibility vest.

(these are located at the sign in desk).2. Sign in when you arrive.3. If you are rostered to assist during the 8am – 10am morning

hosing shift, you will be paired with the relevant Animal Attendant.

4. During any other shift after 10am, if you are taking your dog out from its pen, remember to put up the ‘I’m Out Walking’ sign.

5. Enrichment activities could include ‘cage manners’ and other out of cage training, sitting with the dog or walking it.

6. Allow 30 minutes to complete the exercises, and try to do this for two to four dogs during your shift. The program will differ depending on the dog.

7. Return dog to the enclosure if it has been removed, and put up the ‘I’ve Been Walked’ sign.

8. If you have free time or there aren’t many dogs to work with, feel free to do some laundry or other shelter duties!

9. Sign out when you leave.


8am – 10am shift Assist animal attendants during

morning cleaning. This will include taking dogs to

other areas while attendants are hosing their pens.

Working on foundation training with the dogs while they are out will be beneficial.

For dogs that can’t be moved during hosing, in-cage enrichment will be appropriate.

Please do not enter any cages marked with the sign: “WATCH”.

Enrichment Activities – cage manners

Encouraging good ‘cage manners’ or calm behaviour whilst in a pen is an easy and effective way to improve the well-being and adoptability of the dogs here.

Volunteers spend time walking up and down rows of dog pens, rewarding dogs with treats for not barking or jumping and displaying calm and relaxed behaviour

This simple activity is a great way to help the dogs in our care to be happy and calm in what can be a very stressful environment.

Enrichment Activities – in-cage foundation training

Many dogs respond well to in-cage training, particularly those that are very excitable and energetic.

Working on basic training inside the cage can be very beneficial for certain dogs.

Any kind of foundation training is useful: sit, drop, stay, shake... Whatever you like!

Under-socialised dogs can also benefit from somebody sitting and talking to them as it can help to build their confidence and social skills.

Enrichment Activities – dog walking Depending on the dog and

the experience level of the volunteer, certain dogs can be walked either on-site or off-premises.

Dogs must be kept away from one another at all times.

It is recommended that volunteers follow our training guidelines to ensure the dogs are getting the most out of their walks.

Info sheets and signs

Information Sheet Background information on the dogs personality and

training & which harness or collar to use. Check for ‘Special Needs’.

I’m Out Walking’ Sign Clip to front of pen. Important in case someone comes to

adopt and the dog isn’t there.

‘I’ve Been Walked’ Sign Clip to front of pen. Important so other volunteers can

decide which dog to walk.


Exercise preparation

Once you have chosen the dog you are going to walk:

1. Choose the correct harness or collar according to the info sheet.

2. Fill a pouch with treats for rewarding the dog

3. Close the main gate to the adoption run

4. Attach one end of your double ended lead to the fence beside the door of the dogs pen (not on the door


Different training apparel

Front attach harness For

small/medium/large dogs

Back attach harness For smaller dogs


Toilet training1. Take the dog to the grassed

area in front of the adoption pens and let him sniff around

2. Walk along the property boundary so the dog can explore his surroundings

3. If the dog goes toilet, praise and give a treat

4. Bags are kept in the dispenser at the front of the pens and rubbish bins are on the grassed area

5. Never leave the dog you are walking unattended


Walk on a loose leash

1. Hold the leash by the handle and walk forward. Reward the dog if walking nicely.

2. If the dog pulls or crosses in front of you, walk backwards.

3. Continue this until the dog learns that if it wants to move forward, it must be on a loose leash

4. Use the concrete path outside the adoption pens for this 5 minute exercise.


Teaching ‘sit’

1. Using a food treat, lure the dog into a sit position

2. Do this by moving the treat slowly over the back of the dogs head so that it moves backwards into a sit position.

3. Praise and reward as the dog sits.

4. Remember, this dog may never have been trained in its life so be encouraging and stay positive.


Playtime and grooming

1. Take the dog into the long yard behind the adoption pens.

2. Close the gate, ask the dog to sit and then remove the leash

3. Play using the toys in the bucket – remember the game must be under control!

4. Calm the dog before returning to the pen. Sit with the dog for 5 mins, this is a good time to massage or groom him


Finishing up

1. Close the main gate to the adoption run

2. Calmly remove his harness or head collar

3. Toss some treats in the pen and put the dog away

4. Clip an ‘I’ve Been Walked’ sign on the pen


Important things to remember Read any signage on dog enclosures before working with any dog

and check with an animal attendant or with me if unsure. Try to follow the exercise/enrichment program – this will benefit the

dog more than just walking Keep the dog you are walking away from others – only (brief) ‘meet

and greets’ allowed Use the food treats we provide Wear enclosed footwear (sneakers) and clothes which you don’t

mind getting dirty or hairy! If approached by a member of the public in the adoption area please

refer them to a staff member. You are not to take dogs out for members of the public Any health related issues which you notice must be reported to a

staff member e.g. diarrhoea or vomit


Occupational Health and Safety


OH&S Manual

Firstly, a copy of our Occupational Health and Safety Manual will always be made available to you as a volunteer

Ask the volunteer coordinator or our OH&S manager if you would like to clarify anything, or view the manual


Fire and Emergency Procedures

In the event of a fire, you will be required to follow an emergency evacuation plan

We have designated fire wardens to assist staff and volunteers in the event of an evacuation

Dog and cats are to be left in their enclosures unless otherwise directed by a fire warden


Protective Equipment Ear plugs are available on the volunteer desk – you

should wear these if you are in the enclosure area for longer than 15 minutes

You must wear enclosed footwear, and long sleeves/pants are recommended to prevent animal scratches

Sunscreen is available on the volunteer desk Other ultraviolet radiation protection, such as hats

and sunglasses, must be self provided and are strongly recommended as there is limited shade provided in the dog walking area

There is a public water fountain at the dog adoptions area. Volunteers should bring their own water bottles – we have water coolers available in the office.


Healthy working environment The Lost Dogs’ Home is a smoke-free, alcohol-free

and illicit drug-free environment. Possession and use are both prohibited on the premises.

We must be advised of any medical conditions or prescription medication which could interfere with your ability to perform voluntary work

We must be advised if you are planning to, or are currently pregnant, due to risks within animal handling environment, such as Toxoplasmosis and other Zoonosis

Volunteers should be up to date with their tetanus vaccinations. Any animal bites or scratches must be reported immediately


Zoonoses

Zoonoses are diseases which can spread from animals to humans, through breathing, ingestion or skin contact

Routine hand washing is the best prevention. Antibacterial hand gel is available on the volunteer desk

Toxoplasmosis is spread by cat faeces, and can be particularly dangerous for pregnant women.

Cat scratches and bites pose significant risk of infection.


Zoonoses

Examples of infections from dogs and cats include:

• Cat Scratch Fever Is a bacterial infection that causes swelling of the lymph nodes, usually is due to the scratch, lick, or bite of a cat • RingwormRingworm is a skin infection due to a fungus. You can catch ringworm if you touch someone who has the infection, or if you come into contact with items contaminated by the fungus, such as combs, unwashed clothing, and shower or pool surfaces. You can also catch ringworm from pets that carry the fungus. Cats are common carriers.

• Flea AllergyFleas are microscopic pests common to canines and felines. Flea bites can trigger allergic reactions in hypersensitive pets and humans that can lead to allergy discomfort and infection.

• GiardiasisGiardiasis is an infection of the small bowel. People become infected with the Giardia parasite after swallowing Giardia cyst often found in water contaminated by raw sewage or animal waste.

Zoonoses

Scabies• known colloquially as the seven-year

itch, is a contagious skin infection that occurs among humans and other animals. It is caused by a tiny and usually not directly visible parasite, which burrows under the host's skin, causing intense allergic itching.

Toxoplasmosis• Toxoplasmosis (toxo) is an infection

caused by a single-celled parasite called Toxoplasma gondii. The infection is most commonly acquired from contact with cats and their faeces. Most people have heard of toxoplasmosis due to the risks infections pose to pregnant women. If infection occurs during pregnancy it can cause abortion or congenital defects to the foetus.

Hydatid Disease• The hydatid tapeworm

commonly infects dogs. A person who comes into contact with infected dog faeces may contract hydatid disease, which is when cysts form in vital organs such as the liver. Hydatid disease is a serious and potentially fatal condition. Symptoms may occur a long time after the initial infection.

Zoonoses

Q fever• Q fever is spread to humans

from infected animals. The bacteria survive for long periods in the environment as they are resistant to heat, drying and many disinfectants

Leptospirosis• Leptospirosis is a bacterial

disease of humans and animals. It is caused by Leptospira bacteria that are found in infected animal urine and animal tissues.

Lyssavirus• Lyssaviruses are a group of

viruses that includes rabies and bat lyssavirus.

• Lyssavirus is carried by bats in Australia. Rabies is carried by mammals in many overseas countries. Both are spread by bites and scratches.

Safe working environment Workplace bullying – meaning any behaviour

that intimidates, offends, degrades or humiliates another employee/volunteer, either in writing or verbal – will not be tolerated.

Due to the nature of the work we do, there may be a chance you will be exposed to unstable or irate members of the public who conduct themselves in a violent manner. This will not be tolerated.

Any incidents such as workplace bullying, or occupational violence, must be reported immediately to the volunteer coordinator for appropriate action to be taken.


Safe working environment Volunteers are not permitted to enter the staff only

areas of the veterinary clinic or hospital Volunteers are not permitted to open, adjust or alter

any electrical equipment within the premises. Any defects must be reported immediately

Volunteers are not to handle any dangerous goods or substances e.g. chemicals within the premises. Any spills must be reported to staff immediately.

Some areas of the Home are ‘staff only’. Obey the signage and please don’t enter these areas unless you have permission from the Volunteer Coordinator

Volunteers do have access to the staff room and staff toilets


Manual handling Don’t attempt to undertake manual handling

activities on your own as you could injure yourself

If a dog refuses to continue when you are out walking, be very careful when going to lift the dog, as they can be heavy or awkward. Try to tempt the dog with a treat first or ask a passing staff member for assistance.

If you do need to pick the dog up, bend at the knees and lift smoothly. Keep your back straight and don’t twist while lifting. Set the dog down in the same manner.


Site Safety and First Aid

When moving around the premises, don’t run and exercise caution on wet or slippery areas, e.g. the adoptions area in the morning, when it has been recently hosed

Keep entrances and doorways clear, and always make sure the leads and harnesses you are using are not a tripping hazard for you or others

If you or another volunteer requires first aid treatment, this must be applied by a trained ‘First Aider’ at the Home.

First Aider lists are available on the emergency procedure posters located around the Home, or you can ask the volunteer coordinator for help

The First Aid cabinet is located in the office next to reception, near the photocopier.


Animal Handling There is always a risk of bite wounds, scratches and musculo-skeletal

injury when handling animals on regular basis Volunteers work with dogs which have been temperament tested, but

any dog can be unpredictable in different situations. Always assess canine body language when approaching a dog. Don’t approach other members of the publics dogs when walking an

adoption dog. Don’t walk dogs closely together with other volunteers or staff. Dogs

are only permitted to meet and greet in a safe, controlled environment. Read the information on the front of the enclosure, check with an

attendant if there is anything you are unsure about. If dogs are particularly boisterous, you could be injured by a dog

jumping on you. Ask for help in these situations, it could take two people to manoeuvre the dog safely.

Report any incidents or unusual canine behaviour that you observe or experience in the dog you are walking

It is recommended to follow ‘Dog Training Sheet’ when walking the dogs which provides you with tips on handling the adoption dogs


What happens next Sign the OH&S Agreement Form

Read through the information in your volunteer pack Confirm your available times after this training

session Check your emails – main method of

communication

Practical Training

Confirm your availability for a practical training session.

Once you have attended your practical training session, you will then be rostered to start a regular shift.LDH_37_201108_PP_VOL

Questions?


Volunteer presentation - Lost Dogs Home - North Melbourne

Government & Nonprofit

Transcript of Volunteer presentation - Lost Dogs Home - North Melbourne