Volunteer Guidelines

We are grateful for the knowledge, talent, and dedication our volunteers bring to Flagler Humane Society. Volunteers are assigned to positions based on their interests, skills, and FHS needs. We welcome volunteers ages 14 and older. All volunteers between the ages of 14 and 17 must be accompanied by an adult.


Timeliness & Scheduling

Volunteers are expected to arrive on time for all scheduled shifts. Your schedule will be arranged with your supervisor at a time that works for both you and FHS. Once agreed upon, it is your responsibility to honor that commitment. Please notify your team leader or supervisor as soon as possible if your availability or contact information changes.


Timesheets

Documenting volunteer hours helps FHS qualify for grants and other critical support. Volunteers are responsible for completing their own timesheet each shift. If you need to track hours for school or another organization, we recommend keeping a personal duplicate for your records. If you require a letter of verification or other documentation of your volunteer service, please give the Volunteer Coordinator a minimum of one week’s notice to process your request.


Dress Code

Volunteers should dress comfortably, neatly, and appropriately for their role. For animal handling positions, jeans or other long pants are strongly recommended for safety. Closed-toed shoes are required for all positions. Volunteers in public-facing roles are expected to maintain a neat and professional appearance. The following are not acceptable for any volunteer position: torn jeans, tank tops, midriff-baring shirts, tight-fitting or low-cut clothing, or mini skirts/shorts.

Upon completing 30 days of volunteer service, you will receive a complimentary photo ID badge and one FHS volunteer shirt. Additional shirts may be purchased at any time.


Representation

Volunteers are expected to represent FHS in a positive and professional manner at all times. We encourage you to visit flaglerhumanesociety.org to familiarize yourself with our mission, programs, and services so you feel confident answering common questions from the public — topics may include our nonprofit status, pet overpopulation, spay/neuter efforts, the adoption process, and more. All media inquiries must be directed to appropriate administrative staff.


Volunteer Recognition

FHS is committed to acknowledging the contributions of our volunteers through recognition efforts, group meetings, and events. If you ever feel your efforts are going unnoticed, please reach out to the Volunteer Coordinator — your contribution matters to us.


Right to Decline Services

FHS reserves the right to limit volunteer use, adjust hours, or decline services at any time. These policies do not create an employment relationship or any other contractual right, and nothing herein should be interpreted as a guaranteed right to participate in any program or continue in any volunteer position.

Grounds for declining or discontinuing volunteer services include, but are not limited to: unsatisfactory background checks, misconduct, insubordination, being under the influence of alcohol or drugs, theft, misuse of FHS equipment or materials, mistreatment of clients or co-workers, failure to follow FHS policies and procedures, and/or failure to meet the performance requirements of a volunteer position.


Infection/Virus Control

Shelter life can be stressful for animals, making them more susceptible to illness. Cats in particular are prone to upper respiratory infections, which are highly contagious and can spread through the air (sneezing), direct contact between animals, or contact with an infected animal’s handler.

Please wash or sanitize your hands thoroughly after handling each animal and follow posted disinfection guidelines at all times. If you have pets at home, keep your work clothes away from them until they have been laundered. It is also recommended that you clean the soles of your shoes with a solution of 1 part bleach to 10 parts water before entering your home after a shift.


Incident Reporting

Please report any of the following to your supervisor immediately:

  • Dog or cat altercations
  • Signs of animal illness (sneezing, coughing, runny eyes/nose, lethargy)
  • Behavioral concerns (depression, aggression toward people or animals)
  • Any injury you sustain during your shift (bites, scratches, sprains, etc.)
  • Any illness or physical discomfort experienced during your shift
  • Any situation you witness that appears inconsistent with FHS policies, procedures, or professional standards

Questions & Suggestions

We welcome all feedback and suggestions to improve FHS! While you’re encouraged to communicate with the lead in your volunteer area, you’re always welcome to reach out to the Volunteer Coordinators directly:

📧 volunteer@flaglerhumanesociety.org 📞 (386) 445-1814 ext. 506

Thank you for your service — we truly could not do this important work without you.