What Is Expected Of H.A.B.I.T. Volunteers?
- Maintain a positive attitude. We are there to promote therapeutic change, not just to entertain.
- Dress appropriately as defined by the facility and be on time.
- Be willing to listen, cooperate, and communicate with residents, facility contact person, head volunteer and program maintenance committee representative.
- Sign in and record number of residents visited each week.
- Be responsible for your animal:
- Keep animal clean, well-groomed, free of external parasites.
- Make sure animal is wearing a clean HABIT scarf.
- Have control of animal at all times. Dogs should be on a short lead.
- Keep an eye on animal while conversing.
- Recognize stress in animal and remove immediately. Be the animals' advocate.
- Be aware of items on floor.
- Let animals interact outside.
- Do not visit if your animal is ill or behaving inappropriately.
- Take your commitment seriously. Notify the facility contact person and either the HABIT head volunteer or Program Maintenance Committee member as soon as possible if you cannot make a scheduled visit.
- Respect the rights of residents and staff.
- Attend annual HABIT meeting.
- If approached about publicity, please contact the HABIT office first (865-974-5633).
