Volunteer Handbook
Set forth by:
Town of Branford Dan Cosgrove Animal Shelter
749 East Main Street
Branford, CT 06405
Phone (203)315-4125
Fax (203)315-3851
animalshelter@branford-ct.gov
Serving the towns of Branford, North Branford and Northford
The Town of Branford Animal Shelter is dedicated to servicing the public as it relates to animal issues as well as finding qualified homes for adoptable homeless companion animals that are temporary residents of our shelter.
We are dedicated to fostering a responsible and humane two and four-footed community. We provide for and protect abandoned, abused, neglected, and unwanted animals. We promote animal welfare through programs and services that mutually benefit animals and people.
We welcome all dedicated individuals and groups who would like to actively participate in bettering the lives of both animals and people in the community. We hope that once volunteers become active with the needs of the community and the shelter animals, that they will take with them a better understanding of animal sheltering, animal care and animal welfare issues. We rely on volunteers to be advocates in their community and educate their friends and family on animal issues. We hope for a positive union between shelter staff, animal control officers and volunteers.
We would like to acknowledge the many hours serviced by volunteers so we can show the tremendous efforts that volunteers contribute to the Town of Branford and its Animal Shelter. We value our volunteers tremendously. We thank you for your consideration in helping those that cannot help themselves.
The Town of Branford Animal Shelter was the brainstorm idea of a community that loves animals and wanted their own animal shelter. A small group of grade school age children who raised the first $100.00 towards the creation of an actual animal shelter facility were the first to be recognized as true leaders in a commitment to have such a facility. With the support of the First Selectman, Anthony “Unk” DaRoss he quickly established a research and development committee to investigate the procedures for building this shelter. With community support through donations and education, “Unk” was able to determine just how much this Town desired their very own Animal Shelter. Town, State, private donations and volunteer fund raising, all added to and supported the building of the facility. The name Daniel Cosgrove Animal Shelter earned its distinction from the generous contribution of a longtime businessman and resident in the community, Mr. Daniel Cosgrove. His love of animals and concern for their welfare had been proven throughout the years, so when shelter volunteers approached Mr. Cosgrove regarding financial support, he was more than willing to contribute. Mr. Cosgrove was the largest financial donor, so hence; he has earned the distinction of having his animal loving legacy be evident to all that enter the Daniel Cosgrove Municipal Animal Shelter. Without the true dedication from our First Selectman, Anthony “Unk” DaRoss the animal shelter would still be a far off dream.
Though animal shelter philosophy was the primary catalyst for the building of the facility, we are a Municipal funded and statutorily obligated Municipal Animal Control agency. We are regulated by the State Department of Agriculture, who has the right to unannounced inspections and who oversees complaints and regulates many aspects of this agency and this building. We are also taxpayer funded and have to abide by a Town budget and spending allotment. Therefore, we have certain limitations and restrictions that are mandatory to abide by. We will do our best to create a shelter environment that is beyond the State obligated duties, but volunteers have to remember that we are NOT a privately funded rescue organization and therefore do not have the liberty or freedom that some well-known private shelters or organizations have. We hope to supply more than just food, water, emergency veterinary care and shelter to unwanted companion animals that enter our facility, but we also have obligations to the community as an animal control agency, which requires us to be present for animal control issues as well as housing certain animals that may not be available for adoptions. We, at times, will have impounds of vicious, sick, injured, and/or safe keep animals that the volunteer are not allowed to play with, handle or view. We ask that you respect the anonymity of these animals, their possible owners as well as their particular and sometimes confidential situations.
The Town of Branford Animal Control Department covers the municipalities of Branford, North Branford and Northford with duties that relate to all domestic animals and limited wildlife issues. Animal nuisance complaints such as roaming, barking, illegal pooping, and cruelty investigations as well as the intake of homeless, limited owner releases and stray unwanted companion animals are part of the staff duties. As well as a variety of other animal care and control services and maintaining a log of lost and found animals in the community. The shelter is also responsible to try to find loving and qualified homes for unclaimed strays that have been impounded at the shelter. This agency has the duty to provide necessary information to the community regarding proper pet care as well as maintain current and accurate records of all animal control activities. Shelter employees also abide by both the Animal Shelter and Human Resources Policy and Procedure Manuals.
In the year 2002, the town First Selectman created an Advisory Board to assist in the development of the Town of Branford Animal Shelter. This board consists of four members from the community who have shown a true commitment to better enrich the lives of the animals in this municipality. Some duties of these members include creating a positive public awareness and a need for the Animal Shelter in this community. They were critical in obtaining over $135,000.00 in private donations under the name of “Paws Cause” and were the facilitators of the Animal Shelter building dedication on April 26, 2003. It will be at the direction of the Town First Selectperson as to any reappointments upon the termination of their appointments. The Board members have decided to continue to assist in the raising of much needed funds for the shelter animals. They are an all-volunteer support group. Their mission will be to generate support for and raise public awareness of the Animal Shelter.
There are certain times that volunteers may not be allowed to handle certain animals based on police investigations, cruelty cases, animal aggression, safe keep situations, etc. There are times that the shelter staff cannot offer you ANY information due to the reasons why the animals have been impounded. These animals will have a sign on the front of their cages letting the public know that they are not for adoption. Please do not inquire about these animals because it might be privileged information and not for public record. We will do our best to let you know that these animals are now out of imminent danger and will be cared for in a proper, humane and legal manner. Confidentiality regarding personal information about animal control issues and the outcome of certain individual animal situations must be maintained at all times. Volunteers will be exposed to information about members of the public regarding many animal related issues. ALL information should be considered confidential and is NOT to be repeated or shared.
This shelter will also be participating in a “safe keep” program that temporarily houses needy animals from homeless people situations. These animals are also considered privileged information and confidentiality rules apply for both human and animal safety. Media correspondence can be an asset if utilized correctly. Unfortunately, the media can sometimes misinterpret the true nature of a situation and offer misleading information to the public. Though it is wonderful that the media has an interest in animal’s issues, it is not at the discretion of volunteers to represent themselves as spokes persons of the Animal Shelter. Unless a volunteer has been appointed by the Shelter Director, or their designee, then we ask that you represent yourself as an individual and not as a representative for the Animal Shelter. Please refer all media reports for statements or information to the Director. Volunteers are also not permitted to share other volunteer matters with the general public. Any volunteers that do not get along shall report any disturbances immediately to the Shelter Director, for investigation or reassignment of duties. Although we all hope to get along, it is understandable that differences might occur. We ask that you try to work any differences out accordingly as well as respect your fellow volunteers’ opinions and methods. Personal items cannot be safely secured within the shelter facility so please be sure to keep all personal belongings with you at all times.
Certain areas shall be “off limits” without proper authorization. These areas might be, but are not limited to; the quarantine area, animal control officer’s office or any other designated “private” area. If you are not sure if the area is for shelter staff only, please inquire before you enter that area. Though many items that are used for volunteer duties such as phones, copiers, fax machines, digital cameras are an every day necessity, the staff needs to be aware, for fiscal and safety reasons who and when these items are being used. They are for shelter and volunteer usage only, and to benefit the shelter programs, they are NOT for personal use and should not be used as such.
Volunteers will be given an opportunity to do a self evaluation after 30 days of service regardless of the amount of hours served. This evaluation will relate to the duties performed and satisfaction with the overall shelter experience with questions, concerns, and/or suggestions and in regards to productivity and ability. Please understand that we may not be able to implement all suggestions or address all questions and concerns but we do value getting your input. This will be a casual review that will be a great way for staff and volunteers to get to know one another. We can use this opportunity to find out just what “hidden” talents you, the volunteer might have. Sometimes volunteers get frustrated or do not like their current duties or assignments, so at this time other alternative volunteer duties can be investigated.
Any disciple regarding improper volunteer activities will be handled by the Shelter Director and in the unlikely occurrence that a volunteer is removed from their duties, the volunteer (and their guardian/parent) shall be informed of the reasons why.
Volunteers are asked to conduct themselves in a professional and presentable fashion at all times. Improper language, discrimination, violence and abuse to animals and /or people WILL AT NO TIME BE TOLERATED AND SHALL PROMPT IMMEDIATTE DISMISSAL.
Any volunteer who witnesses any improper behavior should immediately report it to the Shelter Director or their designee. Any volunteer who believes that he/she has been subjected to harassment or discrimination should immediately report the incident to the Shelter Director or their designee. This matter will be promptly investigated and appropriate action will be taken according to the nature and severity of the incident.
Volunteers should respect the shelter staff and limit their advice, unless they witness improper behavior. At that time volunteers should report the situation to the appropriate personnel.
The shelter facility and animal control vehicles is a drug and smoke free environment. Any smoking shall be conducted in a designated outside smoking location and it is the responsibility of the smoker to properly discard the cigarette butts.
Any personal accidents or injuries that occur while volunteering for or at the shelter should immediately be reported to a staff member. Please note that volunteers are not covered under the Town health insurance.
It is the duty of all volunteers to follow all safety rules. It is recommended that volunteers seek out the advice of a physician in regards to a tetanus shot as well as the proper rabies prevention vaccinations.
Since diseases of strays and abandoned animals can cause serious illness and even death of sick animals it is of serious importance to make sure that cleanliness is a priority whenever you are working directly with the animals or their living areas, as well as any areas where cross contamination could occur. Communal shelter living is a breeding ground for both air born and “contact” illnesses.
The shelter staff and volunteers MUST properly clean every cage, floor, surface and corner to ensure the safety and health of every shelter animal. Shelters that are not properly cleaned can be host to a variety of bacterium and viruses that can spread quickly throughout the building. We will be using chemicals that help kill common animal related bacteria and viruses. They often times need to be diluted, so follow shelter staff as well as the product directions as to the proper usage of each chemical. Remember to always wear protective gear such as gloves, etc. when handling chemicals. Also remember not allow animals any access to these chemicals. Skin irritations and respiratory problems can occur for both humans and animals alike if the chemicals are improperly used.
There is a list of diseases and common viruses that are animal related. A description of these and their symptoms will be kept at the shelter for volunteer inquiries. Please note any abnormal behavior and seek out a shelter staff member top report aggressive attitude, including runny or bloody stool or vomiting.
Cross contamination is a well-known factor in accidentally promoting illnesses between shelter animals. It is important to wash your hands between every animal and wipe down any areas that you or the animal touch, such as paper towel racks, cage front doors, and door handles, etc. Also please thoroughly wash your hands prior to eating. Though it is limited, there are some diseases that are animal to people friendly. They are not often life threatening, just inconvenient and uncomfortable, so please use precautions as well as caution when interacting with the animals.
It shall be the determination of the Director of Animal Control/Shelter or their designee, to decide which animals are available for adoption. This determination will be done with compassion and based on numerous issues, but not limited to; liability, animals temperament, age, health conditions, financial restraints and Department of Agriculture inspections.
We ask that volunteers wait a minimum of 30 days (from the time they start volunteering) prior to making any adoption decisions. Sometimes “mercy” adoptions become an all too familiar scene with new volunteers. We ask that you trust the shelter personnel to make the appropriate decisions for the welfare of both the animals and people alike. It is sometimes difficult for animal lovers to see abandoned pets in cages or without a couch to lounge on or family to frolic with, but a pet is a very serious investment and responsibility, so quick, emotional based decisions are not a good way to decide upon a new family member. So therefore we ask that you refrain from “mercy” adoptions and speak to the Shelter Director if you and your family truly want a new companion animal to share your home and life with.
Euthanasia is an unfortunate but necessary part of the work carried out by the animal shelter. Millions of dogs and cats are brought to public and private animal shelters and animal control facilities annually because they are unwanted, lost, abandoned, old, sick, have bitten someone, hurt another animal or have behavior problems. We do our best to place every adoptable animal that comes through our shelter facility, but some animals that are diagnosed with life threatening illnesses, extreme medical problems or display aggression towards other animals or people are not placed for adoption. In these cases we euthanize the animal using a humane method.
We are NOT considered a “NO-KILL” shelter. We also are not a “Rescue Organization.” We are a State and Town mandated Animal Control Facility. As a municipal animal control facility that has certain local and state laws and ordinances to abide by, we are responsible for the safety of the public when in regards to vicious and roaming dogs. We also enforce all State and local ordinances as they regard to dogs, with limited powers over “other” animals such as cats wildlife. We do not have the actual facility to house miscellaneous types of animals. Though we will take into consideration every situation in regards to animals that are in need, we have to determine fiscal cost as well as tax payer responsibility. Even no kill shelters that are non-profit turn away animals when their cages are full. Plus many no kill shelters prefer to keep animals caged their whole lives with the philosophy that being alive (even living in a cage) is better than humane euthanasia.
As a municipal animal control facility we will try our very best to accommodate the residents and their animal needs of this community and even try to extend our help to eliminate neglect or cruelty and try to educate people on humane issues.
We do not expect volunteers to take part in the euthanasia process. However, as a volunteer you will need to be able to come to terms with euthanasia and in turn show consideration to the shelter staff that are directly involved in the euthanasia of animals. If you would like to discuss euthanasia further, please speak with the Shelter Director.
Attached to the volunteer handbook is a copy of the shelters euthanasia policy.
We encourage members of the community to participate in the shelter activities, provide much needed assistance, and learn new marketable skills. We can also become a reference for those entering the work force. The Branford Animal Shelter strives to provide a volunteer experience that is rewarding for the volunteer, our agency, and our community. The following policies were established to ensure our care for the homeless animals and the community is of the highest quality and to ensure safe, efficient operations.
We ask that you familiarize yourself with this volunteer handbook and utilize it as a guideline to reference when there are questions regarding volunteer duties and responsibilities.
Times of commitment and cancellation of committed time, conduct, violence, drug free, smoking limits, employee harassment, employee disclosure, confidentiality, including limits on interaction with suspected animal abusers, gossip, dress code, accident prevention, off limit areas, privacy of personal information, personal equipment, mercy adoptions, safe animal handling, orientation, discipline shall be addressed in the Handbook.
Since your support as a volunteer is so extremely important, your decision to participate must be made with the full understanding of the commitment and responsibility it demands.
A dedicated passion for helping all animals and eradicating cruelty. The strength and level-headedness to stay focused on the mission of the program. The emotional strength to handle disturbing stories of abuse. Volunteers will see animals brought to the shelter in very poor condition, and will come in contact with people who do not know how to take care of their animals. We ask that you don not judge or critique them and allow the shelter staff to mediate any disturbing situations. We also ask that volunteers do not critique the shelter staff for the duties and responsibilities that is required of them to properly serve the public and perform their duties.
Also it is pertinent that volunteers do not interfere with any ongoing police or animal cruelty investigations. At no time shall volunteers be allowed to discuss matters with the animal keeper/owner and shall be removed from their volunteer duties if they violate this rule. They also cannot discuss any such investigative matters with anyone, including the media. Gossip shall not be tolerated and will be just cause for immediate volunteer removal.
Volunteers will be asked to wear a nametag. This way the general public will know that you have been trained and have information regarding adoptable animals that are impounded at the shelter. As well as any other fund raising or community programs as they relate to the shelter.
We ask that you always wear your I.D. when volunteering.
Volunteers are asked to wear the proper attire when volunteering at the shelter or representing the shelter in any way. Any clothing that does not properly protect you from possible bites, scratches, falls, etc and any inappropriate “revealing” clothing are not allowed. We recommend minimal jewelry, it often times gets caught on cages or animals teeth and/or claws can get caught in them. We suggest long pants, sneakers and any other garments that help to protect against personal injury. This will reduce any unnecessary accidents from occurring.
A volunteer application form and a hold harmless waiver must be filled out prior to the start of volunteering.
ALL volunteers must attend an orientation class prior to the start of their volunteer activities.
Orientations are designed to be an introductory to the Branford Animal Shelter and Animal Control Department. Orientations will be held on a continual basis. This is where volunteers can decide whether or not they want to become a part of this volunteer team. Duties and responsibilities will be discussed and any questions or concerns can be addressed during this informal orientation. Also at this time you will be given handouts regarding the procedures for cleaning the cat cages and dog kennels along with other related duties. Once you are familiar with all of the responsibilities, your volunteer duties will be fun, rewarding and educational.
Without volunteer staff, the shelter would not be able to provide extra socialization and care for the animals that reside with us. Because we rely on volunteer support, we ask that a schedule of hours/days available for work be adhered to. This schedule can be just a few hours a month or a few hours a day. We do know that unexpected situations occur and sometimes you are not able to fulfill your scheduled times. It is important to be reliable and consistent. Just like a work schedule, we ask that you call us if you are going to either be late or unavailable for your scheduled times. This way we can make the proper adjustments. After all, it is important to keep the “routine” as much as possible; the shelter animals look forward to your company. Both the staff and animals rely on your assistance.
A daily time log is required of all volunteers at both the beginning and end of the shift. We ask that you sign in and out, wear the appropriate attire for the duties you will be performing and that you are easily identifiable as a volunteer when you are performing shelter duties (i.e. name badge.)
Volunteers will be trained in aspects of shelter activities and maintenance, i.e. Animal care – feeding, cleaning and socializing dogs and cats. Shelter care- cleaning animal bowls, toys and bedding, sweeping/mopping, emptying garbage, windexing windows and/or keeping shelter grounds clear of debris. Visitor interaction- informally speaking to potential adopters, in conjunction with staff input, in regards to a particular animals’ temperament and personality that you have worked and become familiar with.
Volunteers also have the option to choose to help out with shelter fundraisers as well as with shelter promotion.
A few of the fundraising opportunities are pictures with Santa, riding a float in the Branford Christmas Tree Lighting and parade, sitting at the Shelter booth at the Branford Festival, nail clip clinic, car wash and others as they arise.
A few of the promotional opportunities are taking digital pictures of the shelter animals and helping to place them on Petfinder.org, placing pet photos on BCTV, providing animal welfare articles or facts for the Shelter newsletter and/or helping put together the Shelter newsletter, hanging or handing out flyers to promote shelter fundraisers/activities or inquiring of Shelter staff about the possibility of scout, school or church groups hosting an activity for the shelter to earn credits or badges for their group.
The primary function is to raise money and awareness for the help of the Shelter Animal Donation account and bring awareness to the citizens of Branford and beyond. Some duties could include volunteers taking on the opportunity to organize fundraisers/awareness events such as dog walks, bake sales, auctions, tag sales, grant funding, public relations events, walkathon, food drive for the Pet Food Pantry, etc. **Please speak to a staff member first for authorization before planning your event.**
This program is designed for those volunteers that enjoy beautifying the outdoors. There are garden areas at the shelter that could be planted and maintained. Plantings could be of any kind or could be to benefit wildlife like butterflies or migratory birds.
Thank you for giving your time and energy to the Town of Branford Dan Cosgrove Animal Shelter. We hope that the time you spend here will be as rewarding to you as it is to the animals you care for.