School Service Hours Volunteer Application

🐾 Welcome to Sumner County Animal Services!

Thank you for choosing to volunteer with us as part of your school service hours. We’re excited to have you join our team in helping care for the animals at our shelter. This document outlines important guidelines, safety rules, and expectations for your time with us. Please read it carefully before your first shift.

🧭 Volunteer Expectations

Ages 12–17:
If you’re between the ages of 12 and 17, a parent or guardian must sign your volunteer waiver and provide emergency contact information, but they are not required to stay on-site while you volunteer.

Safety First:
Volunteering with animals comes with some risks. Always use caution and follow instructions. Any injuries — even minor bites or scratches — must be reported to staff immediately. A current tetanus vaccination is recommended for all volunteers.

Professional Conduct:
Volunteers are expected to be respectful, responsible, and kind when working with staff, animals, and the public. Please follow all instructions given by shelter staff.

Stay On Task:
Remain in your assigned area and complete only the duties you’ve been trained or approved for. Never enter restricted areas or handle animals without permission.

👕 Dress Code

• Clothing: Wear comfortable, durable clothing that you don’t mind getting dirty. Jeans or long pants are required—no leggings or spandex.

• Shoes: Closed-toe, non-slip shoes are mandatory. No sandals, flip-flops, or open-toed shoes allowed.

• Jewelry: Avoid loose or dangling jewelry (such as necklaces or bracelets) for safety reasons.

• Hygiene: Wash hands frequently, especially after handling animals. Gloves must be worn when cleaning, handling waste, or feeding animals.

⚠️ Potential Risks

• Animal Bites or Scratches: Always approach animals calmly and follow staff instructions. Report any incidents immediately.

• Physical Activity: You may be asked to assist with cleaning, lifting, or organizing tasks. Don’t overexert yourself—ask for help if needed.

• Allergies: Let us know if you have allergies to animals, cleaning products, or anything else relevant.

📋 General Guidelines

• No Cell Phones During Tasks: Please keep phones put away while volunteering. You may use them during breaks.

• Ask Before Handling Animals: Do not interact with any animals unless you’ve been given permission or are supervised.

• Follow Staff Instructions: Your safety and the well-being of the animals depend on it.

🚨 Emergency Procedures

• Injuries or Accidents: Notify a staff member right away if you or someone else is injured. First aid or further assistance will be provided as needed.

• Emergency Contact Info: Make sure your emergency contact information is current in your application.

🕒 Sign-In & Scheduling

• Sign-In/Out: Use the individual sign-in sheet when arriving and leaving. These records are important for tracking your service hours.

• Scheduling: All volunteer shifts must be scheduled in advance. To arrange your hours, contact Rebecca Lester at rlester@sumnersherifftn.gov 

🙌 Thank You!

We appreciate your willingness to help our animals and support our shelter. Your time and compassion make a meaningful difference—and we’re so glad to have you on board!