Opportunities From: VolunteerME Heart of Maine

Our "Let's go for a WALK"  program is designed to help get our rescue dogs out of the kennels for an hour, a few hours, or even a day trip. "Field Trips" or "Doggy Day Outs" as they are generally referred to throughout the animal welfare community are quickly becoming known as a great way for people who might not be able to have a pet to enjoy the benefits of pet ownership while doing something great for one of our rescues who are stuck in a kennel day in, day out.  Everyone benefits with our program, the dogs, the volunteers and of course the rescue, it's a win for everyone!

 

The priority is for the dogs that have been at the rescue for one month and longer, dogs that have recently arrived will not be eligible for the program.

Our program is open to members of the community who are 18 years or older, responsible and "preferably" have some experience with dogs. An application must be completed and an appointment scheduled to come and meet some of the dogs suitable for the program. Volunteers will need to spend time at the rescue in the play area with the dog they will be taking out with them, to build a relationship and allow the dog and person to feel comfortable, safe and happy with each other. We will only allow our dogs out when we are confident a good match is made.

Depending on time and availability an appointment might be scheduled for the volunteer to come back to pick up their new friend, or maybe they go out that same day. The dog will have a secure harness and collar, collar tag with rescue's information and be double leashed. This might sound like over-kill, but we are taking all precautions to ensure everyone stays safe. A seat belt attachment will be provided to keep everyone secure in the vehicle also. A crate can be available upon request prior to the day out. A collapsible water bowl, poop bags, an "Adopt Me" bandana, contact information and rescue business cards to hand out will also be provided in an easy carry, tote bag. Of course, there will be paperwork and waiver forms that need to be completed.

We do not allow visits to dog parks, or homes and environments where there will be interaction with other pets. The focus is for the dog going on the walk, so that they can experience a great time, without more distractions and for information to be gathered on behavior, likes, dislikes, fun things and of course as many pictures as possible to help us to promote their adoption.

Only one dog per person is allowed, however, if two or more people have dog experience and the dogs get on with each other at the rescue, we would consider two dogs going out on the same trip! 

it is important to remember that we are always looking to find these precious saved souls their forever homes and the more exposure, the more information, pictures and video's we can provide, the higher chance they will have of finding their forever homes.

If you are interested in volunteering for our "Let's go for a WALK!" program, email "giveadogahome.maine@gmail.com" for more information and to complete relevant forms. Then of course, SPREAD the WORD!

 

https://www.giveadogahome-rescue.org/info/display?PageID=21465

GaDaH has a great opportunity to access truck loads of high quality dog and cat food at heavily discounted costs.

 

We are looking to set up a Pet Food Bank for communities that would benefit from this potential resource.

 

In order to make this work we will need help in the following areas:

 

Logistics - the food we get has to be accounted for and monthly reports submitted back to the donor.

Admin - creating forms / data base system for people to apply for food - checking they meet the requirements

Fundraising - People who are comfortable asking people / companies / non-profits / seeing grants - for help to cover the cost of the food.

Marketing - to raise awareness of our program

Volunteer Management- reaching out and organizing volunteers 

 

There is no limit as to where we can offer our service, so once set up and having a committed volunteer base, we can go to anywhere there is a need.

 

We have a shuttle bus that can be loaded up to go to set up locations and we can have specific hours at the rescue to distribute food.

 

 

 

Having dogs in the rescue it is very important to try and to not only release their physical energy but also their mental energy. Having an agility type course for the dogs to work on, play on, items to chase around is great as it engages their brains a lot more than just playing.

We are looking for someone who can build little towers, jumping runs, boxes to sit on, run under, play around - Nothing too complicated just something that will give the dogs enjoyment and that extra mental stimulation.

 

It can be as basic or complex as you want to make it.