ANIMAL CARE VOLUNTEER ROLE DESCRIPTION
LOCATION AND HOURS: NEWRY – SHIFTS
REPORTS TO: ANIMAL CARE AND REHOMING MANAGER
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PRINCIPAL FUNCTION: The purpose of this role is to work alongside the staff in the care and social rehabilitation of the animals in the USPCA centre.
PRINCIPAL DUTIES:
· To assist with the cleaning of the animals’ pens which involves removing dirty bedding, hosing, or wiping out enclosures, sweeping and scooping up of poop, cleaning litter trays and providing clean bedding and toys.
· To assist with hygiene control – ensuring appropriate sanitisation and handwashing and avoiding cross contamination.
· To assist with ensuring the animals remain stocked up with food, water, bedding, and toys.
· To assist with ensuring the animal care environment is presentable, and general tidying up.
· To provide enrichment to the animals. Playing and spending time with the animals, dependent on their needs, providing opportunities to socialise with other animals and people where appropriate. Walking the dogs.
· To assist with general laundry duties. Taking soiled linen, towels and bedding to the laundry and collecting clean items. Loading dirty laundry into the washing machine, taking out and putting in the dryer or on the washing line. Folding all clean items and putting them away.
· To be a good ambassador for the USPCA, supporting and endorsing the aims of the charity and promoting the good image of the charity when interacting with the public and fellow volunteers.
· To assist in ensuring all health and safety processes are followed.
· To manage all data in relation to the USPCA clients in accordance with data protection legislation and confidentiality.
· To participate in events arranged by the USPCA to support the charitable work of the USPCA.
· To undertake any other duties as and when necessary.
SKILLS, QUALITIES AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED FOR THE ROLE:
· To be over 17 years of age.
· To have the ability to communicate with the public in a professional manner (Essential).
· To be reliable and trustworthy.
· To enjoy working as part of a team.
· To be able to work on routine tasks.
ALL VOLUNTEERS ARE REQUIRED TO:
· To adhere to the volunteer policy.
· To always work within the guidelines outlined in all other USPCA policies and procedures.
· Be smart in appearance and wear the uniform provided by the USPCA. Sensible shoes must be always worn.
· Maintain strict confidentiality.
· Participate in training deemed necessary by the USPCA and attend volunteer meetings.
BENEFITS OF VOLUNTEERING AT THE USPCA:
· To meet new people
· To develop your C.V. and learn new skills.
· To enable the USPCA to raise vital funds for the charity’s work in relieving suffering and preventing cruelty to animals.
· To receive 20% discount card towards veterinary treatment (excluding vaccinations and medication) and in our pet supplies shop.
· Access to the My Healthy Advantage app.
TRAINING AND SUPPORT:
· Training and support will be provided by our on-site staff and volunteer co-ordinator.
