Dog walkers and in-kennel enrichment volunteers work together to rotate dogs from a pavilion in and out of the medical runs, giving each dog a brief walk and opportunity to eliminate, stretch their legs and enjoy some fresh air and change of scenery, then engage with volunteers in interactive enrichment activities during their time in the runs. The idea is to get a whole pavilion outside in a 2 - 2 1/2 hour period while giving each dog at least 20 minutes of interaction and outside enrichment.
At least two walkers and three IKE volunteers are needed for each shift but more are welcome.
For the enrichment component, you do not need to be a dog walking volunteer, as the interaction is in-kennel. You will need to learn the basics of "Click for Calm". You can attend a separate "Click for Calm" workshop when they are offered, or you can ask for some 1:1 coaching from the medical run Lead on your shift.
Typically at least one IKE volunteer will be designated a 'floater' who can remove dogs, if needed, and offer alternative enrichment for dogs who are struggling in the medical run environment.
Runners/Floaters must be active dog walking volunteers. If you want to become a medical run enrichment lead, you should be an active participant familiar with the flow, and shadow until ready to teach and lead the enrichment activities.
