Animal Handling

Safe and compassionate animal handling is at the heart of everything we do in the shelter. Knowing how to approach, move, and interact with animals reduces stress, prevents injury, and builds trust. This training will walk you through handling techniques for both dogs and cats, safety precautions, and how to read body language.

After reviewing the material, please take the quiz to check your understanding. You can retake the quiz as many times as needed, but you must score 100% to pass. Your care and attention make a lasting impact on every animal you meet.

Thank you for being a part of our volunteer team! Your time, compassion, and dedication are critical to the health, safety, and well-being of the animals in our care, and to the success of our shelter’s mission. Whether you’re walking dogs, assisting in adoptions, fostering animals, or helping behind the scenes, you’re making a lasting difference.

To help you feel confident and prepared in your role, we’ve created this Training & Resource Hub. Here, you’ll find important information, helpful tools, and required training modules tailored to the many opportunities available at our shelter.

Some trainings are optional and serve to expand your skills, while others are mandatory before you can participate in certain activities, particularly those that involve direct animal handling or specialized care or knowledge. Please be sure to complete all required trainings before signing up for those opportunities.

We encourage you to revisit this page often, as we continue to add new materials and updates. Whether you're new or a experienced volunteer, there’s always something to learn, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Let’s work together to create a safer, more enriching environment for our animals and our community.

Thank you again for being an essential part of our team!