INTRODUCTION

Community Veterinary Outreach ("CVO" or the "Organization") is a volunteer non-profit organization that provides preventative veterinary education, as well as care and treatment, and other programs (e.g. pet fairs that provide pet grooming, dog training, and other services to animals owned by vulnerable populations) with the ultimate goal of improving not only the health of the animal, but also to support the physical, mental and emotional well-being of their owners or guardians and contribute to protecting public health. There are many opportunities for volunteer work at CVO, including hands-on animal care and providing education to animal owners, caregivers, and the public.

By signing this Volunteer Agreement (the "Agreement") below, and in consideration of admission as a CVO Volunteer, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to comply with all the terms, conditions, and policies set forth herein.

In addition to this Volunteer Agreement, please carefully review the CVO Volunteer Handbook, for more information regarding our volunteer program.

SECTION 1: VOLUNTEER CODE OF CONDUCT

As a volunteer with CVO, I agree to provide volunteer services to CVO in a professional and responsible manner. Additionally, I agree to:

1.1. Treat all clients, staff, fellow volunteers, and animals with dignity, respect, and compassion, regardless of housing status, socioeconomic background, race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, religion, or any other personal characteristic.

1.2. Acknowledge that CVO provides preventative care and training to animals of the homeless and street-involved, and that I will work closely with them.

1.3. Act professionally and ethically at all times while representing CVO, whether at One Health Clinics, Pet Fairs, community events, or any other CVO-sponsored activity.

1.4. Follow all instructions and directions provided by CVO staff, veterinary professionals, and designated volunteer coordinators.

1.5. Arrive punctually for scheduled volunteer shifts and provide reasonable advance notice if unable to attend.

1.6. Refrain from consuming alcohol or non-prescribed controlled substances while performing volunteer duties.

1.7. Dress appropriately for the volunteer role, including wearing closed-toe shoes and any required personal protective equipment.

1.8. Refrain from soliciting clients or other volunteers for personal, political, or commercial purposes.

1.9. Report any concerns, incidents, or unsafe conditions to CVO staff immediately.

1.10. Complete any training on, and familiarize myself and comply with, all policies, handbooks, directives, protocols, practices and any other Organization plan or document, as may be implemented or amended.

1.11. Understand that failure to comply with this Code of Conduct may result in immediate dismissal from the volunteer program.

SECTION 2: CONFIDENTIALITY AND PRIVACY

2.1. Acknowledgment of Sensitive Information. I understand that in the course of my volunteer activities, I may have access to confidential and sensitive information regarding CVO clients, their personal circumstances, health information, and their pets' medical records (collectively, "Confidential Information").

2.2. Duty of Confidentiality. I agree to hold all Confidential Information in strict confidence and not to disclose, publish, or otherwise reveal any Confidential Information to any third party during or after my volunteer service with CVO, except as required in the performance of my volunteer duties.

2.3. Compliance with Privacy Laws. I agree to comply with all applicable federal and provincial privacy laws, including but not limited to the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA) and any applicable provincial privacy legislation.

2.4. No Unauthorized Access. I agree not to access, use, or attempt to access any Confidential Information that is not necessary for the performance of my volunteer duties.

2.5. Protection of Client Dignity. I understand that CVO clients are members of vulnerable populations, and I commit to protecting their dignity by never discussing their personal circumstances, housing status, health conditions, or other private matters with anyone outside of CVO or for any purpose unrelated to my volunteer duties.

2.6. Access to Proprietary Information. I acknowledge that I may have access to confidential and proprietary information belonging to CVO and agree to keep it secure and not use it for any purpose other than my volunteer duties.

2.7. Return of Materials. Upon the termination of my volunteer relationship with CVO, I agree to return all materials, documents, and records containing Confidential Information to the Organization.

2.8. Survival. I understand that my confidentiality obligations under this Section survive the termination of my volunteer relationship with CVO indefinitely.

2.9. Use of CVO Technology and Equipment. I understand that any computers, electronic devices, email accounts, or other technology provided to me by CVO are the property of CVO and are to be used solely for CVO-related volunteer activities. I agree not to store personal emails, files, documents, photographs, or other personal property on CVO computers, devices, or email accounts. I understand that I have no expectation of privacy with respect to any information or data stored on or transmitted through CVO technology and equipment.

2.10. Right to Inspect and Monitor. I acknowledge and agree that CVO reserves the right to access, monitor, and inspect any CVO-owned computers, electronic devices, email accounts, and other technology at any time, with or without notice, for any reason. This includes, but is not limited to, reviewing emails, files, internet browsing history, and any other data stored on or transmitted through CVO systems. I consent to such monitoring and inspection as a condition of my volunteer service.

2.11. No Personal Use of CVO Systems. I agree not to use CVO email accounts, computers, or other technology for personal communications, social media access, online shopping, or any other non-CVO-related purposes. I understand that violation of this policy may result in immediate termination of my volunteer relationship with CVO.

SECTION 3: LIABILITY WAIVER AND ASSUMPTION OF RISK
3.1. Acknowledgment of Risks. I understand that volunteer activities with CVO may involve inherent risks, including but not limited to:

• Animal bites, scratches, kicks, or other injuries caused by animals (I understand that by volunteering for CVO, I may be exposed to animals that may carry diseases, bite, scratch, or injure me, and I accept these risks)
• Exposure to zoonotic diseases (diseases transmissible from animals to humans)
• Exposure to parasites, fleas, ticks, or other pests
• Exposure to cleaning chemicals, veterinary medications, and biological materials
• Slips, trips, and falls
• Exposure to environmental conditions (heat, cold, inclement weather) at outdoor events
• Interactions with clients who may be experiencing mental health crises, substance use issues, or unpredictable behavior

3.2. Voluntary Assumption of Risk. I voluntarily assume full responsibility for any risks of loss, property damage, or personal injury, including death, that may be sustained as a result of participating in volunteer activities with CVO.

3.3. Release and Waiver. I acknowledge and agree that by volunteering with CVO, I will not hold CVO, or any social agencies working in conjunction with CVO, liable for any loss, damage, illness, or injury, including death, suffered by me while volunteering. I, for myself and on behalf of my heirs, assigns, personal representatives, and next of kin, hereby release, waive, discharge, and covenant not to sue CVO, its officers, directors, employees, agents, volunteers, sponsors, and affiliates (collectively, the "Released Parties") from any and all liability, claims, demands, actions, or causes of action whatsoever arising out of or related to any loss, damage, or injury, including death, that may be sustained by me while participating in volunteer activities, whether caused by the negligence of the Released Parties or otherwise.

3.4. Indemnification. I agree to indemnify and hold harmless the Released Parties from any loss, liability, damage, or costs, including court costs and legal fees, that they may incur due to my participation in volunteer activities, whether caused by my negligence or otherwise.

3.5. Insurance. I understand that CVO does not provide health, medical, or disability insurance coverage for volunteers and that I am responsible for maintaining my own insurance coverage for these purposes. CVO does carry general liability for all volunteers, and professional liability insurance for those engaged in veterinary medicine activities on behalf of CVO.

SECTION 4: HEALTH AND SAFETY

4.1. Commitment to Safety. I agree to prioritize health and safety at all times during volunteer activities and to follow all safety protocols, procedures, and guidelines established by CVO.

4.2. Personal Protective Equipment. I agree to wear and properly use all personal protective equipment (PPE) provided by or required by CVO, including but not limited to gloves, masks, eye protection, and protective clothing.

4.3. Reporting Obligations. I agree to immediately report to CVO staff:

• Any injury or illness sustained during volunteer activities
• Any safety hazards or unsafe conditions observed
• Any incidents involving animals, clients, or other volunteers
• Any exposure to blood, bodily fluids, or potentially infectious materials

4.4. Harm Reduction Services. I understand that CVO clinics may include harm reduction services such as naloxone kits and safe injection supplies as part of the One Health model. I agree to follow all protocols related to these services and to treat clients accessing such services with dignity and without judgment.

4.5. Vaccination Recommendations. I understand that I am encouraged to maintain current vaccinations for tetanus and rabies, and to consider other vaccinations as appropriate based on the nature of volunteer activities.

SECTION 5: INFECTION CONTROL AND BIOSECURITY

5.1. Hand Hygiene. I agree to practice proper hand hygiene, including washing hands with soap and water or using alcohol-based hand sanitizer before and after handling animals, after removing gloves, and after contact with potentially contaminated surfaces.

5.2. Animal Handling Protocols. I agree to follow all animal handling and biosecurity protocols established by CVO, including:

• Handling animals gently and humanely at all times
• Using appropriate restraint techniques as instructed by veterinary staff
• Not handling animals if I have open wounds on my hands or arms unless wearing appropriate protective equipment
• Reporting any animal bites or scratches immediately for proper wound care and documentation

5.3. Illness Policy. I agree not to volunteer if I am experiencing symptoms of contagious illness, including but not limited to fever, vomiting, diarrhea, or respiratory symptoms, and to notify CVO as soon as possible if I must miss a shift due to illness.

5.4. Zoonotic Disease Awareness. I acknowledge that I have been informed about the potential for zoonotic disease transmission and agree to follow all protocols designed to minimize such risks.

SECTION 6: HARASSMENT AND NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY

6.1. Commitment to Inclusive Environment. CVO is committed to maintaining a volunteer environment free from discrimination, harassment, and bullying. As a volunteer, I agree to uphold this commitment.

6.2. Prohibited Conduct. I agree not to engage in any form of:

• Discrimination based on race, colour, ancestry, place of origin, citizenship, ethnic origin, disability, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, marital status, family status, socioeconomic status, housing status, or any other protected ground
• Sexual harassment, including unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favours, or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature
• Bullying, intimidation, or threatening behaviour
• Verbal abuse, including slurs, derogatory comments, or offensive jokes
• Any conduct that creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment

6.3. Respect for Vulnerable Populations. I understand that CVO serves homeless, under-housed, and vulnerably housed individuals, and I commit to treating all clients with dignity, respect, and compassion without judgment regarding their circumstances.

6.4. Reporting. I agree to report any incidents of discrimination, harassment, or bullying that I experience or witness to CVO staff immediately.

6.5. Consequences. I understand that any violation of this policy may result in immediate dismissal from the volunteer program.

SECTION 7: ANIMAL HANDLING GUIDELINES

7.1. Training Requirement. I agree to complete any animal handling training required by CVO before handling animals during volunteer activities.

7.2. Supervision. I agree to handle animals only under the supervision of or with the authorization of CVO veterinary staff or designated volunteer coordinators.

7.3. Humane Treatment. I agree to treat all animals humanely and to never use excessive force, corporal punishment, or any form of abuse when handling animals.

7.4. Safety First. I agree to prioritize safety when handling animals and to immediately step back and seek assistance if an animal displays signs of aggression, fear, or distress.

7.5. Scope of Activities. I understand that CVO provides services including examinations, vaccinations, microchipping, parasite treatment, grooming, and nail trims. I agree to perform only those animal handling tasks for which I have been trained and authorized.

7.6. Reporting Animal Welfare Concerns. I agree to immediately report any concerns about an animal's health, welfare, or safety to CVO veterinary staff.

SECTION 8: PHOTO AND MEDIA RELEASE

8.1. Consent to Use of Image. I consent to photographs being taken of myself and waive ownership of any photographic records taken by CVO. I hereby grant CVO and its authorized representatives permission to capture, record, and use my image, likeness, voice, and statements (collectively, "Media") in photographs, videos, audio recordings, and other media formats.

8.2. Permitted Uses. I understand that these images may be used in CVO publications, posters, websites, or other media without compensation, including but not limited to CVO's social media accounts, newsletters, annual reports, and grant applications.

8.3. No Compensation. I understand that I will not receive any compensation for the use of my Media.

8.4. No Approval Rights. I waive any right to inspect or approve the finished Media or the use to which it may be applied.

8.5. Release. I release CVO and its officers, directors, employees, agents, and affiliates from any claims arising out of the use of my Media.

8.6. Opt-Out. I understand that if I do not wish to be photographed or recorded, I may notify CVO staff at any time, and reasonable efforts will be made to accommodate my request.

8.7. Prohibition on Personal Device Photography. I understand and agree that I am strictly prohibited from taking photographs, videos, or other recordings on my personal devices (including but not limited to personal mobile phones, tablets, cameras, or other recording devices) while on CVO premises, at CVO events, or while performing any volunteer duties for CVO unless specifically permitted by a representative of CVO. This prohibition applies to photographs or recordings of clients, their pets, other volunteers, staff, CVO facilities, documents, records, and any other aspect of CVO operations.

8.8. No Storage of CVO Images on Personal Devices. I agree not to store, save, download, or retain any photographs, videos, or other recordings related to CVO, its clients, their pets, or CVO operations on my personal devices, cloud storage accounts, or any other personal storage media. If I inadvertently capture any such images or recordings, I agree to delete them immediately and permanently. If I am capturing images on a personal device as permitted in 8.7, I agree to provide them back to CVO and immediately and permanently delete them.

8.9. Consequences of Violation. I understand that any violation of this photography policy may result in immediate termination of my volunteer relationship with CVO and may subject me to legal action for breach of confidentiality and privacy obligations.

SECTION 9: SOCIAL MEDIA POLICY

9.1. Representation. I understand that when posting on social media about CVO or my volunteer activities, I am representing the Organization and must conduct myself accordingly.

9.2. Confidentiality. I agree not to post any Confidential Information, including photographs, videos, or information about CVO clients or their pets, on social media without express written consent from CVO and the affected individuals.

9.3. Accuracy. I agree to ensure that any statements I make about CVO on social media are accurate and do not misrepresent the Organization's mission, activities, or positions.

9.4. Respectful Communication. I agree to communicate respectfully on social media and not to post content that is defamatory, discriminatory, harassing, or otherwise harmful to CVO, its clients, staff, volunteers, or partners.

9.5. Disclaimer. If I post about CVO on personal social media accounts, I agree to make clear that the views expressed are my own and do not necessarily represent the views of CVO.

9.6. Prior Approval. I agree to obtain approval from CVO before speaking to the media or posting any official statements on behalf of the Organization.

SECTION 10: CONFLICT OF INTEREST
10.1. Duty to Disclose. I agree to disclose to CVO any actual or potential conflict of interest that may arise during my volunteer service, including but not limited to:

• Financial interests in organizations that do business with CVO
• Personal relationships with CVO staff, board members, or clients that could affect my objectivity
• Outside activities or employment that could interfere with my volunteer duties or create the appearance of impropriety
• Any situation in which my personal interests could conflict with the interests of CVO

10.2. Ongoing Obligation. I understand that the duty to disclose conflicts of interest is an ongoing obligation throughout my volunteer service.

10.3. Resolution. I understand that CVO will determine the appropriate course of action to address any disclosed conflict of interest, which may include reassignment of duties or termination of my volunteer relationship.

Section 11: EMERGENCY PET BOARDING PROGRAM (IF APPLICABLE)

This section applies only to volunteers participating in CVO's Emergency Pet Boarding Program.

11.1. Program Purpose. I understand that CVO provides emergency pet boarding for clients who are losing shelter, seeking medical treatment, or facing other crisis situations.

11.2. Care Standards. If I participate in this program, I agree to provide temporary care for animals in accordance with all standards, guidelines, and instructions provided by CVO.

11.3. Communication. I agree to maintain regular communication with CVO staff regarding the health and welfare of any animal in my care and to immediately report any concerns or emergencies.

11.4. Return of Animals. I understand that animals placed in my care remain the property of CVO clients and that I must return animals to CVO or the client as directed by CVO staff.

11.5. No Adoption Rights. I understand that participation in the Emergency Pet Boarding Program does not confer any rights to adopt or permanently keep any animal placed in my care.

SECTION 12: VETERINARY PROFESSIONAL CREDENTIALS (IF APPLICABLE)

This section applies only to volunteers who are licensed veterinary professionals (veterinarians, registered veterinary technicians, or equivalent).

12.1. Credential Verification. I agree to provide CVO with verification of my professional credentials, including my license number, licensing jurisdiction, and proof of good standing.

12.2. Scope of Practice. I agree to practice only within the scope authorized by my professional license and in accordance with the standards of my profession.

12.3. Current Licensure. I agree to maintain current licensure throughout my volunteer service and to immediately notify CVO if my license is suspended, revoked, or subject to disciplinary action.

12.4. Professional Liability Insurance. I understand that CVO recommends that licensed veterinary professionals maintain their own professional liability insurance coverage.

12.5. Supervision. I agree to follow all protocols established by CVO regarding the supervision of veterinary procedures and the delegation of tasks to non-licensed volunteers.

SECTION 13: GENERAL PROVISIONS

13.1. Volunteer Status. I understand that I am a volunteer and not an employee of CVO. I am not entitled to wages, benefits, or workers' compensation, and no employment relationship is created by this Agreement. My volunteer relationship with CVO is may be terminated by either party at any time.

13.2. No Authority to Bind. I understand that I have no authority to enter into contracts or agreements on behalf of CVO or to otherwise bind the Organization.

13.3. Amendment. I understand that CVO may amend its volunteer policies from time to time and that I will be notified of any material changes.

13.4. Severability. If any provision of this Agreement is found to be invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall continue in full force and effect.

13.4. Entire Agreement. This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between me and CVO regarding my volunteer service and supersedes any prior understandings or agreements.

13.5. Governing Law. This Agreement shall be governed by and interpreted in accordance with the applicable Provincial laws and regulations contained within Canada, and the laws of Canada applicable therein.

ACKNOWLEDGMENT AND SIGNATURE

1. I have carefully read and understand this entire Volunteer Agreement and fully understand its contents before signing freely and voluntarily, and without any duress.
2. I have had the opportunity to ask questions and seek clarification.
3. I voluntarily agree to be bound by all terms, conditions, and policies set forth herein.
4. I am 18 years of age or older, OR I am the parent or legal guardian of the Volunteer signing on their behalf.
5. I understand that violation of any provision of this Agreement may result in immediate termination of my volunteer relationship with CVO.
6. I understand that in order to volunteer with CVO in any capacity whatsoever, and at any volunteer opportunity, event or other program hosted by CVO from time to time (whether now or in the future), I am freely and voluntarily signing and agreeing to the terms of this Agreement, which shall extend to my volunteer engagement with CVO from time to time from and after the date hereof.

PARENT/GUARDIAN CONSENT (FOR VOLUNTEERS UNDER 16)

To volunteer with CVO, you must be 16 years of age or older. If the volunteer is under 18 years of age, a parent or legal guardian must sign this Agreement. If you have any questions, please contact Community Veterinary Outreach at info@vetoutreach.org.

I, the undersigned parent or legal guardian of the above-named volunteer, hereby consent to their participation in CVO volunteer activities and agree to be bound by all terms of this Agreement on their behalf.