The volunteer handbook welcomes new volunteers and outlines the policies and procedures for volunteering at the Lawrence Humane Society. It provides an overview of the shelter's mission to care for homeless animals as a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteer support. Volunteers will receive training for roles like dog walking and cat socialization. The handbook details requirements like being 16 years old, attendance at orientation, and a $15 fee. It also covers scheduling, dress code, communication guidelines, and the expectation of confidentiality. The overall document orients new volunteers to safely and effectively contribute their time and skills at the Lawrence Humane Society animal shelter.

1. Volunteer Handbook

2. Welcome
Welcome to the Lawrence Humane Society team! We are thrilled to have you and your passion
for animals here at our facility. Every year, we work to care for thousands of homeless
animals. As a nonprofit organization, we depend on the generosity of our volunteers donating
their time and skills to care for the animals.
Our volunteer program is designed to utilize your skills to the maximum capacity and provide you
with a safe and positive working environment. We will provide you with consistent, professional
training and support you in your volunteer duties.
Thank you for your commitment to the Lawrence Humane Society and to
the animals we care for. It is our honest desire for you to find your
experience here enjoyable. You are guaranteed to find that your hard
work is appreciated, and you will receive many sloppy kisses and purrs in
return!

3. Mission Statement
The Lawrence Humane Society provides shelter, care and advocacy to stray, homeless and abused
animals and nurtures the human animal bond.
Lawrence Humane Society History
The first humane group in Lawrence started in the 1890s. Affiliated with the ASPCA, this group’s main
concern was with the welfare of pets and of working farm animals such as horses. The charter lapsed after
some years.
The Humane Society as we know it today was chartered on March 26, 1951. Several years later, four
acres were purchased on east 19th street for the future site of the animal shelter. In 1958 a $35,000 grant
from charter members Dr. and Mrs. John Ise, in memory of their son Charles permitted construction of
the original shelter building to begin.
During the 21st century, the Lawrence Humane Society continues to develop and implement many new
programs to enhance animal welfare in Lawrence and Douglas County. The number of major fund-raising
projects and events increases each year to help support the shelter’s ongoing commitment to do its job
more efficiently and effectively.- (www.lawrencehumane.org)

4. As the only open-admission shelter in the county, the LHS takes in over 3,500
animals per year, mostly cats & dogs. This means we take in every animal (usually by
appointment) regardless of health or temperament.
There is no "time limit" on how long animals can stay at the shelter. We are also
tasked with decisions regarding euthanasia. Euthanasia decisions are based on health,
temperament and shelter resources. Speak with an LHS associate if you have any
questions about euthanasia.
In addition, we are a full-service facility which utilizes many resources to re-home
pets including foster care, adoption, transfer to other rescues/shelters, reuniting pets
with their owners and off-site adoption events.

5. Shelter & Contact Information
Phone
(785) 843.6835Address & Location
1805 E. 19th Street
Lawrence, KS 66046
Shelter Hours
Saturday-Monday 11:30 am- 4:00 pm
Tuesday-Friday 11:30 am- 6:00 pm
Thursday 11:30 am- 7:00 pm
Volunteer Coordinator
In person: Tuesday-Saturday
Email: Volunteer@lawrencehumane.org
Web Address
lawrencehumane.org
Volunteer Hours
Saturday-Monday 9:30 am- 4:00 pm
Tuesday-Friday 9:30 am- 6:00 pm
Thursday 9:30 am- 7:00 pm

6. Volunteer Requirements
Adult Volunteers Must:
•Be at least 16 years of age
•Complete the volunteer profile
•Attend the subsequent training pertinent to their duties
•Be able to safely and independently perform all role requirements outlined in the training
•Have an active email address
•NOT a current employee of the Lawrence Humane Society
•Pay a one-time fee of $15*
•Sign a release of liability
•Volunteers will not be permitted to begin their duties until this release is signed

7. Volunteer Requirements
Junior Volunteers Must:
• Meet the adult requirements as well as
the following
• Be comprised of 1-2 Junior Volunteers
per Adult Volunteer
• Be between the ages of 7 and 15
• Be supervised at all times by their Adult
Volunteer Team Member
• Be supervised at all times by their Adult
Volunteer Team Member
• Be prearranged by the volunteer
• Have the Adult Team Member attend all
orientations and training sessions, and
complete all required paperwork.
• Have the Adult Team Member safely and
independently perform all role
requirements outlined in the training
• Pay a one-time fee of $15 (per volunteer
team)

8. Why The Fee?
The $15 fee helps offset the cost of
operating our Volunteer Program. The fee
is put toward the cost of your Lawrence
Humane Society name tag, the printing of
this manual and other operational
expenses.
We truly thank you for supporting our
organization.

9. Volunteer Training
Most volunteer positions require a little bit
of training in order to handle shelter
animals. Each volunteer will start out with
Dog Walking Training or Cat Companion
Training, or both! We want to make sure
everyone has the skills to handle our
animals. These training orientations can
be scheduled online by Adults only (16
and up) in our Volunteer Information
Center (VicNet). Volunteers may express
interest in additional responsibilities to the
volunteer coordinator. For both human and
animal safety, volunteers may only
perform duties for which they have
documented training by an approved staff
member.
Acting beyond or outside of
documented training is caused for
disciplinary action.

10. Volunteer Policies & Practices
Scheduling
Many volunteer positions are performed at your
leisure but some
advanced opportunities require commitment to a
regular weekly or monthly schedule.
To maintain current volunteer status, volunteers
are required to serve at least 1 hour in a three
month time period.
By scheduling shifts you assist us in providing
continuous care to the animals.
If you are unable to volunteer for a period of 3
months or longer, refresher training will be
required before resuming your volunteer
activities. Prior to your return, please contact the
Volunteer Coordinator.
All volunteers are responsible for clocking in
and out on the Vogistics system when
volunteering.
For all in-shelter activities, sign in & out at the
front desk with your pin number. This helps us
know who is in the building in case of
emergency. Signing in/out other volunteers
is prohibited.
For off-site volunteer activities, log onto VICnet
to input your hours.
Volunteer hours will not count towards court-
appointed community service.

11. Volunteer Policies & Practices
Dress Code
All Volunteers will abide by the following dress code
The dress code enforced by the Lawrence
Humane Society is designed to keep its
volunteers and staff safe and clean. Please
remember that while you are volunteering here
you are representing the Lawrence Humane
Society as a professional establishment, and we
request the same professionalism from all
volunteers and staff. Please note that you may
come into contact with cleaning chemicals
that may be damaging to clothing (such as
bleach), and you may get dirty so please
wear appropriate clothing that is okay to be
damaged.
•Close-toed shoes and socks are required
•Long pants, preferably jeans, are recommended
•Profanity or inappropriate wording or images are
not allowed on any clothing and volunteer will be
asked to leave
•A name tag is required
•A neat, professional personal appearance is required
•Dangling or loose jewelry should be avoided as it
poses a safety hazard.

12. Volunteer Policies & Practices
Communication must always be respectful
toward the Lawrence Humane Society, other
employees, customers, volunteers, and other
constituents. Be aware that your actions captured
via images, posts, or comments can reflect that of
the organization.
Grievance
Please communicate with the Volunteer
Coordinator regarding any questions, issues,
concerns or comments. A response will be
provided within 2-3 business days. If you have
an urgent need or concern, contact the
Director of Shelter Operations.
Communication
Communication regarding the volunteer program is via email and
the volunteer information board. Volunteer newsletters, notices
and updates or other important information about the volunteer program will
be emailed or posted on our Facebook page. Please make sure we have all
current contact information (including email).
Social Networking
The following expectations apply to social networking sites such as
Facebook, Twitter, Myspace, YouTube, blogs, etc. The absence of, or lack
of explicit references to a specific site does not limit the extent of the
application of this policy.

13. Volunteer Policies & Practices
Communication must always be respectful toward the Lawrence
Humane Society, other employees, customers, volunteers, and
other constituents. Be aware that your actions captured via
images, posts, or comments can reflect that of the organization.
Grievance
Please communicate with the Volunteer
Coordinator regarding any questions, issues, concerns or
comments. A response will be provided within 2-
3 business days. If you have an urgent need or concern, contact
the Director of Shelter Operations.
Communication
Communication regarding the volunteer program is via email and
the volunteer information board. Volunteer newsletters, notices
and updates or other important information about the
volunteer program will be emailed or posted on our Facebook page.
Please make sure we have all current contact information (including
email).
Social Networking
The following expectations apply to social networking sites such as
Facebook, Twitter, Myspace, YouTube, blogs, etc. The absence of, or
lack of explicit references to a specific site does not limit the extent of
the application of this policy.

14. Volunteer Policies & Practices
Confidentiality
As a volunteer of this organization, understand that you may have access to confidential information,
both verbal and written, relating to clients, volunteers or staff and the organization. Understand, and
agree, that all such information is to be treated confidentially and shall not disclose any information
obtained in the course of volunteer placement to any third parties without prior written consent from
the organization. This includes but is not limited to information pertaining to financial status and
operations such as budget information, donations of money or gifts in kind, salary information,
information pertaining to clients, staff or other volunteers. No information concerning any volunteer
will be divulged without prior written consent of the volunteer. This includes addresses, telephone
numbers, etc. Failure to comply with the confidentially policies of the organization may result in
disciplinary actions, including the dismissal of the volunteer.

15. Volunteer Policies & Practices
Substance Abuse
No volunteer is allowed to consume, possess, sell or purchase any alcoholic beverage on any property owned by the
LHS or any vehicle owned or leased by the LHS. No volunteer may use, possess, sell, transfer or purchase any drug or
other controlled substance that may alter an individual's mental or physical capacity while volunteering for the LHS.
The LHS does not tolerate volunteers that are impaired by or under the influence of alcohol or drugs while working.
Harassment Policy
LHS strives to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for all volunteers, staff and visitors. Harassment is defined
(from the viewpoint of the victim) as: the act of systematic and/or continued unwanted and annoying actions of one
party or group, including threats and demands. Harassment includes sexual, physical or verbal comments or actions.
Please inform the Volunteer Coordinator if you witness or experience any form of harassment while serving at the
LHS. Harassment of any form is not tolerated and will result in immediate dismissal of volunteer/ staff, and or
removal of

16. Volunteer Policies & Practices
Professionalism
Remember that as a volunteer you are representing the Lawrence Humane Society as a professional establishment. Chances are high customers
will ask you about the animals you are handling. Volunteers should conduct themselves in a professional manner. We ask that you:
•Use appropriate language. No loud or profane language is
allowed while on duty.
•Appropriately use equipment and materials. Misuse,
negligence and wastefulness of equipment and materials will
not be tolerated.
•Conduct oneself with a friendly, positive attitude.
•Work with the public and answer questions about individual
animals.
•Be aware of and abide by LHS policies and procedures.
•Be prompt and reliable and follow through with
commitments.
•Communicate with the shelter staff in regards to any
concerns.
•Please leave pet counseling and advice to our staff,
staff has access to pet's behavior and medical profile.
•Notify the shelter of a change in personal schedule or
holiday plans that might interfere with any scheduled
shift.
•Notify the shelter staff at least two weeks prior to
ending volunteer service.
•Handle the animals in a safe, humane manner as
outlined by the training.
•Please leave pet counseling and advice to our staff,
staff has access to pet's behavior and medical profile.

17. Volunteer Policies & Practices
Disciplinary Action & Termination Policy
Volunteers are an invaluable resource to the LHS and our primary aim is to encourage and support their contribution
to the animals. However, it is also recognized that there may be times when a volunteer needs to be counselled,
disciplined and perhaps dismissed. Volunteering at the LHS is a privilege, not a right. Volunteers who commit minor
violations of policies and procedures will be verbally counselled in an effort to achieve acceptable corrective behavior
leading to compliance. Continued violations could result in additional counseling or dismissal. Serious violations will
result in termination.
LHS had Zero tolerance policy for:
• Abusive behavior towards animals
• Physical or verbal abuse of any staff or volunteer
• Disregard for rules and regulations
Volunteers may choose or be asked to discontinue their volunteer service to the LHS. If a volunteer wishes to end
their service, we ask that the individual(s) inform the volunteer coordinator.

18. Volunteer Policies & Practices
Disease Transmission & Control
It is extremely important that we do everything we can
to prevent the spread of disease. Animals come to the
shelter every day from all parts of Douglas County with
varying degrees of health. It is our job to keep the
animals housed here as healthy and adoptable as
possible. Illness can spread very quickly from one
animal to another and possibly to humans, so following
safety and cleaning protocols is essential to controlling
diseases and keeping everyone happy and healthy.
Sanitize your hands after handling each animal.
Wall dispensers of disinfectant gel can be
found throughout the shelter
Items such as food and water bowls, toys,
blankets, etc cannot be shared between kennels
Animals from separate kennels may not interact
with one another unless otherwise noted by a
staff member (this includes walking dogs
together outside).
If you suspect an animal is ill, please inform a
staff member immediately. Signs to watch for
include:
•Lethargy
•Coughing/sneezing
•Vomiting
•Diarrhea

19. Volunteer Policies & Practices
Safety & Accident Prevention
Shelter environment can be stressful for some animals and behaviors cannot always be predicted, therefore extra
caution and care is mandatory.
• Handling of animals is strictly prohibited until you have attended training sessions for that animal.
• Your role is to create a calm, controlled atmosphere for social interaction and/or exercise. Play is to be kept
controlled at all times; overexciting an animal may result in aggression and/or negatively affect its adaptability.
• If you discover an animal out of its kennel, Do Not reach out to grab it. Close any doors in the immediate area and
alert a staff member, who will safely retrieve the animal.
• If you witness a fight, Do Not attempt to break it up. Contact a staff member immediately.
• Bringing your own pet to the shelter while volunteering is prohibited
• All animals not housed together must be kept separate at all times, i.e no touching or interaction.

20. Dog Language

21. Cat language

22. Accidents...
Accidents do happen. You are required to
report any bite, scratch or other injury to a
staff member, no matter how small or
insignificant it may seem. Such reports are
necessary to comply with laws, ensure the
safety of volunteers/ staff/ animals and to
help us place adoptable animals in
appropriate homes.

23. Volunteer Policies & Practices
Emergency Procedures
Fire
Upon hearing a fire alarm, seeing a fire and/or seeing or smelling smoke, employees, volunteers, customers and other
members of the public should calmly exit the building and meet by the red aluminum can recycling bin near the
parking lot exit.
• Management should be alerted immediately
• Fire exits are labeled throughout the building
Animals should not be removed from the building by employees, volunteers, customers or other members of the
public.
Tornado
Upon hearing a tornado siren and/or seeing a tornado, employees, volunteers, customers, and other members of the
public should calmly take shelter in the hallway between the TLC and Adopt buildings
Animals should not leave the safety of their kennels

24. Volunteer Policies & Practices
Additional Information
Friends
• Friends may not come with you to volunteer
unless they have been through training
Parking
• Park with staff vehicles on the Douglas County
Fairgrounds property south of the shelter
• you should park in the shelter parking lot if
believe your vehicle will get stuck in snow or
mud.
Smoking
• The LHS prohibits any form of tobacco use in
the building or company vehicles. Smoking is
strictly prohibited while handling animals.
Belongings
• There is no secure place to keep your
belongings, so we advise that you keep them in
your vehicles or at home. LHS is not
responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged
belongings.
Breaks
• Volunteers are encouraged to take breaks as
needed. Please avoid hanging out at the front
desk or lobby areas. The refrigerator maybe
used for snacks and beverages. Please take them
with you at the end of your shift.

25. Need Help?
Volunteer Questions, you can email Volunteer@LawrenceHumane.org
Foster Questions, you can email Foster@lawrenceHumane.org
For all other questions, you can email Info@LawrenceHumane.org
If you need help and you are at the shelter, feel free to reach out to any staff member