7.31.

09

Ewing Animal Shelter

Policy Manual

Ewing Health Department

2 Municipal Drive
Ewing, New Jersey 08628

Phone: 609-883-2900x7691
Fax: 609-883-0215

Health Officer: W. Allen Lee III

609-883-2900 ext. 7691

Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm

EWING ANIMAL SHELTER

Location: 560 Ingham Avenue

Ewing, New Jersey 08618

Phone: 609-393-9608
609-393-9609

Fax: 609-393-9602

*Office Hours: Sunday – Saturday, 8:00 am to 4:00 pm

Public Hours: Weekdays, 1:00 pm to 3:00pm
Weekends, 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm

EWING ANIMAL CONTROL

Location: Ewing Animal Shelter

Animal Control Officer: Richard Moore

Richard Hutchinson

*Office Hours: Monday – Saturday, 8:00 am to 3:00 pm

* Hours subject to change

Revised July 2009

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Table of Contents

Cover Page 1
Table Of Contents 2
Introduction & Township Rules 3
Length of Stay 3
Number of Animals 3
Shelter Description 4
Euthanasia 4
Adoption Network 7
Rescue Groups/Individuals 7
Drugs & Medications 7
Injuries 8
Training 9
Cleaning Procedures 9

Section: Operating Procedures II

Kennel Cleaning 10
Cat Room Cleaning 12
Adoption Procedures 14
Adoptability Screening 15
Participation by Rescue Groups at Shelter 16
Animal Adoptability Review 18
Intake Procedure 19
Shelter Fee Schedule 21
Parvo in Dogs and Puppies 22
Contact with Outside Services 22
Feeding Animals 23
Monthly Report 24
Veterinary Services 24
Handling of Animal Bites 26
Animal Control Ordinances 27
Emergency Procedures 28
Evacuation of Shelter 29
Records Keeping 30
Animal Trap List Maintenance 32
Employee Identification – Uniforms 33
Handling Public Complaints 34
Volunteer Application 36

Attachment A – New Jersey Guidelines for Shelter Operations

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INTRODUCTION

The Ewing Township Animal Control/Shelter Policy and Procedures Manual have been
developed to act as a guideline for Animal Control and Shelter operations. This manual
is to be available at the Health Office and Shelter at all times for the staff. It is a
reference that can be referred to as needed.

The guidelines in the Manual are expected to be followed by each staff member. Any
exceptions will be made by supervision or administration.

TOWNSHIP RULES AND EMPLOYEE MANUAL

All employees are subject to these rules and regulations unless in conflict with union
contracts, as applicable.

LENGTH OF STAY

By New Jersey State law animal shelters are required to hold animals 7 days unless its
owner has released an animal.

Each animal at the Ewing Animal Shelter will be evaluated at the end of the 14-day
holding period.

The Ewing Animal Shelter may hold animals for up to thirty (30) days, when space is
available and the animal is adoptable. If after the thirty (30) day maximum holding period
the animal has not been adopted or otherwise relocated, the animal will be considered
unsuitable for adoption and humanely euthanized according to the methods outlined
below. Said thirty day period may be extended up to an additional 30 days in the sole
discretion of the Shelter Manager, in consultation with the Township Veterinarian and the
Health Officer, provided that the resources/space are available at the Animal Shelter.

Animals can be fostered out for an extended period of time.

NUMBER OF ANIMALS
The maximum capacity of the shelter is twenty-five (25) cats and fifteen (15) dogs. Once
the number of dogs reaches ten (10) and the cats reaches twenty (20), staff is advised to
make efforts above the normal efforts to get animals adopted or fostered. The shelter is
not staffed or equipped to handle more animals than the capacity numbers.

A weekly report with activity of animals including numbers of each, number of kittens,
puppies, number adopted, euthanized or fostered, etc. must be faxed by the Shelter

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Manager or his/her designee to the Health Division 883-0215 and Community Services
Department 883-5023.

SHELTER DESCRIPTION
The Ewing Animal Shelter is owned and operated by Ewing Township and is supervised
by the Ewing Community Services Department.

All supplies and food supplied by the Township shall be for resident animals only.

All Visitors and/or volunteers shall be subject to direction of the Shelter Manager, or
his/her designee. At no time shall a visitor and/or volunteer be permitted in the shelter
unless accompanied by a township employee.

Removal of any animal from the shelter requires the approval of the Shelter Manager or
his/her designee.

EUTHANASIA POLICIES and PROCEDURES

Methods of Euthanasia

GENERAL POLICY:

It is the goal of the Ewing Animal Shelter to have as many animals adopted or
otherwise relocated as possible. There is a limit, however, to the amount of Township
resources that can be utilized for purposes of maintaining animals. Therefore, if staff
evaluation concludes that adoption or relocation is not possible, animals will be
humanely euthanized.

Animals that are declared not suitable for adoption by staff will be humanely
euthanized after fourteen (14) days, which time period is seven (7) days beyond the State
mandated holding period.

Animals that are suitable for adoption may be held for up to thirty (30) days
(total) provided space is available. No animal will be kept beyond the thirty (30) day
maximum stay. If after the thirty (30) day maximum holding period the animal has not
been adopted or otherwise relocated, the animal will be considered unsuitable for
adoption and humanely euthanized according to the methods outlined below. Said thirty
day period may be extended up to an additional 30 days in the sole discretion of the
Shelter Manager, in consultation with the Township Veterinarian and the Health Officer,
provided that the resources/space are available at the Animal Shelter.

The following methods are the only acceptable procedures used for the purpose of
humane euthanasia.

All euthanasia will be approved by the Shelter Manager or (in the event of his absence)
the Health Officer, prior to any procedures. (EXCEPTION) The Township veterinarian

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may determine that an animal is in such condition that it would be more humane to put
the animal to sleep.

SHELTER EUTHANASIA

HOW WILL ANIMALS BE SELECTED?

After the Township mandated fourteen (14) day holding period:
All staff will have input, however the Shelter Manager or his/her designee along with the
euthanasia technician will confer on each animal individually. The Shelter Manager
and/or the Health Officer will make the final determination.

WHO WILL BE PUT TO SLEEP?

(1) Any animal that shows aggression toward humans or other animals.
(2) Animals that are severely injured and in obvious pain, beyond medical help, this
includes wildlife.
(3) Any animal, when overcrowding may create a health hazard by establishing an
unsafe environment for shelter personnel and the animals and all other avenues of
relief have been exhausted.

ANETHESIA
Pre-euthanasia tranquilizer
Ketamine/Xylazine 5:1 ratio 0.6 ml per 10 lbs
Telazol
The weight of the animal is estimated, unless a scale is available.

WHAT DRUG IS USED FOR EUTHANASIA?

Sodium Pentobarbital
Dogs & Cats: 1.0 ml per 10 lbs

Intravenous injection
CEPHALIC VEIN: the preferred method; large vein on the top surface of the front leg.
SAPHENOUS VEIN: the vein on the outer surface of the rear leg (above the hock).
FEMORAL VEIN: the vein on the inner surface of the thigh rear leg.
JUGULAR VEIN: the vein located on the neck at both sides of the windpipe. This vein
should only be used for large wildlife or farm type animals. In the event that any other
animal is in such condition that this would be the most humane method or route for the
injection.

Intraperitoneal injection 3.0 ml/10 lbs

Injection into the abdominal cavity but not an organ. This method should only be used
on puppies and kittens 2 to 3 months and other mammals. After injection, the animal
should be placed in a darkened quite environment.
Intracardiac injection 1.0 ml/10lbs
Injection into the heart (as a last resort and only after the animal has been
tranquilized)

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NEW JERSEY ADMINISTRATIVE CODE

N.J.A.C. 8:23A-1.11 Euthanasia

(a) No animal being euthanized shall be allowed to make physical contact with
another animal unless pre-tranquilized to the extent that they are not capable of
aggressive actions dangerous to humans or animals.
(b) Where standard methods of restraint are impractical or impossible (such as zoo
animals, animals in severe pain from trauma, or animals that are intractable for other
reasons) or where manual capture and restraint may cause pain and injury through
struggling and anxiety, the use of immobilizing drugs are acceptable, except
neuromuscular blocking agents as determined by N.J.S.A. 4:22-1 et seq.
(c) The acceptable methods of euthanasia include the following:
1. The primary recommended method is an intravenous injection of a barbiturate;
however, an intraperitoneal or intracardiac injection may be made where
intravenous injection is impractical, as in the very small animal, or in the
comatose animal with depressed vascular function, intracardiac injection is
acceptable only when performed on heavily sedated, anesthetized or comatose
animals. The use of neuromuscular blocking agents, as determined by N.J.S.A.
4:22-19.3, is prohibited in the animal euthanasia process.
2. Administration of injectable solutions approved for use in dogs and cats.
3. Administration of inhalant anesthetics: I. Ether, halothane, isoflurane,
enflurane, or methoxyflurane may be used. Nitrous oxide shall only be used in
conjunction with other inhalant anesthetics. ii. Acceptable for small animals such
as birds, rodents, and young cats and dogs. Not recommended for larger animals.
iii. Precautions shall be taken to protect personnel and other animals from inhalant
anesthetic gases. Ether is inflammable and explosive. Occupational exposure to
inhalant anesthetics constitutes a human health hazard.
4. intravenous injection of combinations of chloral hydrate, magnesium sulfate
and pentobarbital is acceptable for large animals, such as horses.
(d) Methods not acceptable for euthanasia include the following:
1. Hydrogen cyanide gas; 2. Injection of chloral hydrate; 3. Injection of
magnesium sulfate; 4. Strychnine in any form; 5. Injection of hydrocyanic acid; 6.
Electrocution; 7. Shooting and captive bolt pistol; 8. Drowning; 9.
Exsanguination; 10. Decompression chambers; 11. Nitrous oxide, when used as
the sole euthanasia agent; 12. Chloro-form; 13. Chambers using any gas that is
not an anesthetic; 14. Neuromuscular blocking agents.
(e) All persons administering animal euthanasia shall be a New Jersey licensed
veterinarian or be certified by a licensed veterinarian in the acceptable euthanasia
technique or techniques used at the facility, as delineated in (c) above, in compliance with
N.J.A.C. 8:65. Such documentation shall state the euthanasia substances and techniques
certified for use therewith, shall be signed by the certifying veterinarian, and shall be kept
on file at the facility for inspection by State or local health authorities

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ADOPTION NETWORK
The shelter recognizes animal rescue groups and volunteers to develop a network of
adoption contacts. These groups will be allowed to take animals to pre-approved
locations for adoption days. They can also post the animals on websites, contact other
rescue groups and run paid ads to promote animals for adoption.

RESCUE GROUPS/INDIVIDUALS
Rescue groups and individuals shall be qualified in accordance with the Policy herein
entitled “Participation by rescue groups at the shelter” (see page 17).

Individuals can also work on adopting animals under the shelter staff direction. The
individual will have to complete a volunteer application and sign a contract and agree to
be bound by the requirements required of Volunteers as set forth in this Manual and the
Volunteer application. As a condition of being accepted the Volunteer must be
interviewed, pass a reference check and volunteer regularly at the shelter.

Volunteers who interfere with the shelter staff, or violate the Ewing Animal Shelter
policies and procedures may be banned from the shelter.

The shelter staff chooses the animals that are available to go out on adoption days and
will provide necessary records. The party taking the animals out must adhere to time
constraints set by the shelter staff. All paperwork must be returned with any contact
information. A review of the activity at the adoption day needs to be done with the staff.

DRUGS & MEDICATIONS

The animal control bureau has the need to use drugs for tranquilizing and euthanizing
animals. It also uses medications to treat animals that are injured or ill while staying at
the shelter. These drugs can only be given to a specific animal as prescribed by a
licensed Vet. A medication log is to be kept in the file of each animal receiving
medication and updated daily. It must be noted on the cage card that the animal is on
medication. The employee tranquilizing and euthanizing must be certified by a licensed
Vet and follow the method set forth by the State of New Jersey.

All drugs must be kept in a locked cabinet. The medications for the shelter animals must
be kept in a locked cabinet in the animal shelter. The drugs for tranquilizing and
euthanizing must be kept locked separately. Only staff designated by supervision is
allowed access to the drugs. Under no circumstances are volunteers or other employees
allowed access to the drugs.

Drugs & Medications Continued

Outdated drugs must be disposed of properly. When an animal on medication is adopted,
the medication must go with the adopters with clear instructions on usage. Any
medication not completely used, must be disposed of properly.

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A monthly report of all medications and drugs in the possession of the animal control
bureau must be entered on a report and submitted to the Health Officer or his designee.
The report must be submitted by the 5th of the following month.

EWING TOWNSHIP ANIMAL SHELTER

OPERATING PROCEDURES

SECTION: Administration
SUBJECT: Injury Procedure

GENERAL POLICY: Every effort must be made to avoid accidents or injury, however,
the nature of the process of handling animals in itself has a degree of uncertainty.
Understanding that accidents will happen, it is essential for the supervision of the Animal
Shelter to act in a timely manner to insure that the person injured receives appropriate
medical care and that the incident is investigated immediately so that any causative
agents may be identified and measures taken to remove them or alter procedures
necessary to work with them if removal is not possible.

1. Any employee who is injured while working at the shelter or in work

related to the operation of the shelter, must immediately report the
injury to the shelter manager and fill out the accident form.

2. Upon being notified of an injury to an employee, the Shelter Manager

will evaluate the extent of the injury and make a referral to Robert Wood
Johnson (890-4444) for evaluation and treatment, if necessary.

3. The Shelter Manager must interview the injured employee and conduct
an investigation into the cause of the accident. When the interview and
resulting investigation have been completed, the Shelter Manager must
immediately fill out the Supervisor’s Accident Investigation Form and
submit it to Human Resources in the Finance Department within 72 hours.
The investigation may lead to discipline and/or corrective actions.

4. If the employee is restricted from work by either Robert Wood Johnson

or their own physician, it will be necessary for the employee to be released
back to work by the physicians at Robert Wood Johnson.

5. Persons who are contracted to work at the shelter and are paid by voucher and
work a regular schedule will follow the same procedure.
6. When a volunteer is injured while working at the shelter or is injured by an
EAS animal at an off - premises adoption day or rabies clinic, the supervisor
or another staff member must be informed as soon as possible. The volunteer
at the direction of a shelter supervisor will be encouraged to seek medical

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treatment at a local emergency room. The first aid kit is available for minor
injuries. The shelter manager will follow the procedure above for accident
investigation and discipline.

TRAINING

When an employee starts with the Township, the employee must receive specific training
in the area that they are working in and it must be documented by the supervisor.
Additional training will include Right to Know, Safety Training, which includes proper
use of equipment, programs and seminars that deal with the area the employee is working
in.

Shelter staff will be trained in handling of dogs and cats, cleaning, feeding and watering,
office operations, phone manners, customer service, use of equipment, safety and other
areas as needed.

Additional training will be made available to staff when offered by either internal or
external sources.

CLEANING PROCEDURES

Cleaning of the shelter will be done every day of the week whether the shelter will be
open to the public or not. The cleaning routine will be the following:

8:00 AM – All the staff will be in attendance for initial check and cleanup of the facility.

1. Initial cleanup will consist of a visual inspection of the animals to

Determine illness and any other possible problems. Animals
Exhibiting problems should be reported to shelter supervision.

2. Removal of solid waste materials from dog cages and discard into trash.

3. Remove bed and water bowls from the cages. Beds and bowls must be
cleaned and sanitized.

4. When solid material has been removed, flush the cages and then brush
with cleaner and sanitizer solution mixed as marked on measuring cups.

5. Cages will be hosed down with spray cleaner and mopped or brushed
appropriately. T-Kennel cages must be checked to insure that water has
drained to the floor drains and that there is no free standing water beneath
the cages. Cages will be dried prior to allowing the animal to return.
(Floor cages will have solid materials removed and the area will be
mopped and dried before the animal is returned to the cage area.)

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6. Cat rooms – Remove food and water bowls for cleaning. Litter boxes
will have solid material and soiled litter removed daily. Complete
change of litter every three (3) days. Cats that are sick or are exhibiting
diarrhea shall have litter changed daily.

7. All food and water bowls will be washed and sanitized between usages
using the appropriate chlorine sanitizing agent.

8. At the conclusion of the cleaning process, all mops, brushes, cleaning

equipment, etc., shall be cleaned.

Isolation cages or cages with Mothers and Pups, should be cleaned in a similar fashion as
noted above. Pups and Mothers should be checked regularly for health conditions.
Mothers should always have access to food and water.

EWING TOWNSHIP ANIMAL SHELTER

OPERATING PROCEDURES
SECTION: Shelter Operations
SUBJECT: Kennel Cleaning

GENERAL POLICY: Adherence to proper cleaning procedures is extremely important

in a shelter environment for several reasons, including disease control, animal comfort,
odor control, and maintenance of a pleasant environment for animals and staff. All
employees must comply with cleaning procedures as outlined below.

T-Kennels

All Kennels must be cleaned on a daily basis and frequent checks made to
insure the maintenance of a clean living environment for the animals.
When cleaning T-Kennels, occupying animals must be segregated away
from the side of the kennel being cleaned.
All solid waste must be removed from the kennel and the kennels flushed
using the Hotsy power washer with Ripper as the degreasing agent and
hoses to remove remaining solids to the drain.
Kennel cages are then sprayed using Lemon 64 cleaner in a sanitizing
dilution as noted on the label (2 oz. per gallon of water) and this is
allowed to remain on the cage for 3-5 minutes.
Where staining is present, the use of Clorox Bleach could be substituted
in a concentration as noted on the label (1 Tablespoon/gal of water). Standard
bucket used is 2.5 gallon so 2.5 Tablespoons of Clorox should be added.
Stubborn stains may require brushing of the cage.
When cage has been adequately dried and squeegeed, the animal should be

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relocated to the clean side and the other side of the cage should be cleaned
using the same procedure.
Elevated beds are to be removed and scrubbed daily to insure cleanliness.
Cleaning under Kennels must be done on a daily basis.
Diluted Bleach Solution to be poured down central drain to minimize odor

Floor Cages

Animals in floor cages must be removed to allow for the cages to be cleaned
properly. Animals are placed outside, whenever possible, or in the bonding
area while cleaning is performed.
All solid material is removed from the cage area with a pooper scooper and
placed into a heavy bag for disposal with the trash.
Floor is to be mopped to remove residual solid waste and then sprayed with
either Lemon 64 or Bleach in appropriate dilution.
To insure that the floor paint surface is protected, wheeled dollies are to be used
to move cages.
Beds are removed from the cage and cleaned daily using the power washer
and Lemon 64 or Clorox as the sanitizing solution. Surface of the beds
requires that the surface be brushed to adequately clean.
Special consideration must be given when there is the possibility of infection
with parvo virus. The floor and T-Kennel cages must be cleaned with a
solution of parvo way at a concentration of 18 oz. per gallon of water.
An area of at least three (3) feet around each floor cage must be cleaned
to insure that urine is removed. Any staining of the floor should be addressed,
using Clorox in a dilution of 1 Tblspn/gal of water.

Bowls

Bowls are to be removed from the cages prior to cleaning and washed at
the cleaning station using soap, rinsing the soap and then soaking in a
solution of Clorox as noted above (1 Tbsp/gal) for a minimum of twenty
(20) seconds.
When the cage has been cleaned appropriately, the water bowl is returned
to the cage indicating that it has been cleaned.

Bonding Area

The bonding area is to be cleaned at the beginning of each day and between
animal occupancies as necessary, using the same procedures utilized for
cage cleaning.
As the bonding area is a public utilization area, the staff will monitor the use
of this area and also the potential for any disease transmissions from animals
brought in for tolerance tests by the public. Staff should restrict the use of this
area to any animals exhibiting any visible signs of disease or possibly

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communicable conditions. Special cleaning procedures should be utilized

for this area.
As this area is often used by volunteers to socialize the dogs, staff must
monitor this usage to insure cleaning between animals.

Special Notes

Prior to cleaning, staff should take note of condition of animal stool and
urine to identify any unusual conditions. Any unusual observations must
be documented on the animal file and note made to continue observation.
Should unusual conditions continue, the veterinarian must be notified and
protective measures must be instituted as directed.
Above cleaning procedures must be performed on isolation areas and intake
areas as well as general population cages.

Personnel Responsibilities

The initial cleaning of the day will be performed by all shelter personnel,
including Animal Control Officers. Only emergent calls are to be answered
by animal control until cleaning is completed.
Shelter attendants must continually observe the animal cages during the day
and remove any waste generated by the animals as soon as possible to control
the spreading of waste by the animals.

EWING TOWNSHIP ANIMAL SHELTER

OPERATING PROCEDURES

SECTION: Shelter Operations

SUBJECT: Cat Room Cleaning

GENERAL POLICY:

Adherence to proper cleaning procedures is extremely important in a shelter environment

for several reasons, including disease control, the comfort of the animals and the
provisions of a pleasant environment for the public and employees. Cat room cleaning
procedures must be adhered to by all employees.

The cleaning procedures for the intake area and the adoptable cat areas will be basically
the same.

1. On a daily basis, the litter boxes will be cleaned and refreshed with
new litter if needed.
2. Cats that are sick i.e., have a urinary infection or have noticeable
diarrhea, will have litter boxes changed daily.

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3. If a cat cage has contained a cat with either urinary infection or

bowel problem, and it becomes vacant, it will be disinfected and
allowed to remain vacant for twenty-four (24) hours and then
disinfected again before it is reoccupied.
4. Food dishes are to be removed daily and discarded.
5. Water dishes are to be removed daily and cleaned and sanitized
with a chlorine solution in a concentration of 200 ppm which is
1 Tablespoon of bleach to a gallon of water.
6. Mix a bucket of disinfectant solution (Lemon 64). The dilution for
this material is 2 oz./gal. Cats must be removed from the cages
placed into either a disinfected cage or a disinfected cat carrier.
7. Using a rag, towel or sponge, thoroughly clean the cage surface.
wipe excess solution off with a towel.
8. When disinfection and cleaning is completed, the animal may be
returned to the cage and the water dish refilled.
9. Unoccupied cages in the cat rooms should have the water bowls set
into the cage in an inverted position to indicate that the cage has been
disinfected and is ready for occupancy.
10. Floors must be swept and cleaned by mopping with a disinfectant
solution on a daily basis after the cages have all been cleaned
and the cats are in their cages.
11. It is important to insure that the cats are returned to their own cage
to control any cross contamination potential in the facility.
12. Support shelter staff will disinfect the temporary holding areas
between occupancies.
13. Any volunteers who wish to assist in the cat cage cleaning will
follow these procedures and will be supervised in this activity
by shelter staff.
14. Special consideration must be given when there is suspected
or verified cases of ringworm in the cat population.

Infected cats must be isolated during treatment and the area

where they are housed must be vacuumed thoroughly to remove
any hair that could transmit ringworm. This area must be
disinfected with a bleach solution of sufficient strength to control
ringworm (12 Tblspn/gal).

15. Special consideration must also be given when there is a suspected

or verified case of either feline aids or FIP in the shelter cat population.
Staff will consult with the Veterinarian who will direct the cleanup
procedures to be followed.

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EWING TOWNSHIP ANIMAL SHELTER

OPERATING PROCEDURES

SECTION: Shelter Operations

SUBJECT: Adoption Procedures

GENERAL POLICY

The Ewing Township Animal Shelter will make every effort to insure that an animal
adopted from the shelter is placed with a loving and responsible home which will provide
the necessary love and care for the animal. Temperament and other factors in the
animal’s behavior will be considered in the adoption process.

To attempt to insure that animals adopted from the Ewing Township Animal Shelter are
adopted to good homes and that only the animals deemed to be adoptable are placed, the
following procedures are to be followed:

1. During this holding period, the staff of the shelter will closely observe the
animals and record on the log sheet any behavior that would deem the animal
to be questionable for adoption or would require that restrictions be placed on
the adoption of the animal.

2. At the conclusion of the mandatory holding period the shelter staff

will meet and make recommendations to shelter administration as
to their evaluation of the adoptability of the animals. Any conditions
which would place restrictions on the animal adoptability, should be
noted at this time on the intake sheet and the file.

3. Animals that are deemed to be questionable should be referred for

further evaluation whether by the consulting veterinarian or other
documented animal behavior specialist.

4. Once the decision as to an animal’s adoptability is made, it may only

be rescinded by shelter administration.

5. Persons desiring to adopt any animal from the shelter are required
to fill out an adoption application:
a. Applications will only be accepted from the intended
primary owner of the animal. Applications will not be
accepted for animals that are intended to be given away
(gift adoptions).
b. All members of the adopting family and adults living in
The house must be properly identified as to age. To
Verify the information provided all house residents must
Approve the adoption.
c. A copy of the applicants drivers license to be made and

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Attached to the application.

d. Applications must include veterinarian references. If no
animal has been owned previously, a minimum of two (2)
personal references must be provided.
e. Applications shall be held a maximum of forty-eight (48)
hours to give all staff the opportunity to verify the references
prior to completing the adoption.
f. Adopters will be required to sign acknowledgement of animal
restrictions that are noted by shelter staff, i.e., animal aggression,
safety with children, etc.
g. Applications will be reviewed in order of receipt.
h. Verbal applications will not be accepted.
i. Staff will review all applications with the applicant to confirm
intentions of the applicant.
j. Animals will not be adopted to applicants that have intentions
to breed.
k. Staff has the right to reject any application for any reason.
l. To control animal populations, animals adopted from the
animal shelter will be neutered as soon as possible after
adoption.

EWING TOWNSHIP ANIMAL SHELTER

OPERATING PROCEDURES

SECTION: Shelter Operations/Administration

SUBJECT: Adoptability Screening

GENERAL POLICY:

Animals will be screened for adoptability, taking into consideration the health,
temperament and general desirability of the animal as outlined below.

Adoption Screening Concerns

Temperament

The primary concern in this area is the animals expression of aggressive behavior either
to the staff, volunteers or members of the public who enter the shelter. Animals which
exhibit human aggression will not be made available for adoption to the general public.
Any deviation from the policy must be approved by the Shelter Manager or Shelter
Operations Supervision.

Aggression toward other animals must also be considered in the adoptability of an

animal. The screening of the adoptive owners must include the presence of any other
animals in the household where the animal will be located.

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It is the responsibility of the animal care staff and the volunteers who come to the shelter
to socialize the animals to record any instances of aggression noted while the animal is
being worked with.

All animals will receive an initial evaluation by the Animal Control Officer, Shelter
Manager and Shelter Staff during the intake procedure. Further evaluation will be
conducted on a daily basis by shelter staff and volunteers. Shelter staff will note any
temperament problems, in writing, in the folder and on the temperament form established
for the animal. When information comes from volunteers related to temperament
problems, a note will be made and subsequent confirmatory observation by staff will be
initiated.

Health

Should a citizen or rescue group be interested in providing care for the animal with a
medical problem they may be allowed to adopt as long as the medical condition is
treatable. In these cases, the adopter accepts full responsibility for any medical treatment
needed.

Laboratory Screenings

Cats testing positive for feline leukemia and aids will not be considered for adoption.
Special consideration will be given to cats and kittens testing positive for feline aids in
that adoption will be permitted to rescue groups, which specialize in animals of this
nature.

EWING TOWNSHIP ANIMAL SHELTER

OPERATING PROCEDURES

SECTION: Shelter Operations: Administration

SUBJECT: Participation by rescue groups at the shelter

General Policy:

While the staff of the Ewing Animal Shelter works very hard to insure that the animals in
their care are exposed for adoption, the staffing level is such that additional help in
exposing the animals and socializing the animals may be necessary to make the animals
attractive for adoption.

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Adoption Network
Because of the policy of allowing animals to stay that are determined to be adoptable for
up to thirty days, a number of rescue groups take the time and effort to assist the staff of
the shelter in maintaining the animals, socializing the animals and in general taking the
animals out of the shelter to predetermined locations in the area to make the animals
more visible to the adopting public.

The rescue groups also take measures to expose the animals by way of the internet on
websites known to attract potential adopters. This has resulted in some of our animals
being adopted to locations throughout the United States.

Rescue groups, which wish to operate in conjunction with our shelter, must provide the
following documentation:

1. A Certificate of Insurance of at least $1,000,000 liability coverage.

2. References from sources which have worked with the groups and can
verify their legitimacy.

3. The Ewing Shelter encourages all rescue groups that desire to assist us
in finding homes for our animals to participate in the shelter activities,
functions and adoption programs.

Individuals, whether part of rescue group or not, shall be subject to the following:

1. Individuals working within the shelter to socialize or otherwise interact

with the animals will be required to complete the volunteer application sign a
contract and waiver releasing Ewing Township from any liability.

2. Required to read and acknowledge receipt of with the Operating

Procedures of the Shelter and required to wear a picture ID.

Animals which are to be taken out by volunteers to local adoption sites will be selected
by the shelter staff. The shelter will provide the necessary records related to the animal
in a form which will allow access to the adoption point.

Animals which are taken from the shelter by volunteers must be returned to the shelter in
a time period specified by shelter staff. Failure to adhere to this policy may adversely
affect future access to the shelter.

Volunteers taking animals from the shelter for adoption days will be requested to provide
feedback in the form of a written evaluation of the animal’s performance at the site with
the notation of any behaviors which may restrict adoptability.

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ANIMAL ADOPTABILITY REVIEW

Each animal that is held at the Ewing Animal Shelter must be evaluated by the staff and
comments entered into the animal’s permanent file in the area provided below.

ANIMAL: DOG_______ CAT_______ OTHER__________________________

ID INFO AND Number: _______________________________________________

NAME: ____________________________________________________________

BREED: ____________________________________________________________

SEX: __________________

The animal has exhibited the following characteristics while at the Ewing Animal
Shelter. This is not a complete evaluation but observations made by the staff.

BEHAVIOR YES NO NOT OBSERVED

Animal friendly _____________________________________________________

Animal aggressive___________________________________________________
Child friendly_______________________________________________________
Child aggressive_____________________________________________________
Adult friendly_______________________________________________________
Adult aggressive_____________________________________________________
Uniform aggressive___________________________________________________
House trained________________________________________________________
Needs exercise_______________________________________________________
Indoor animal ________________________________________________________
Outdoor animal_______________________________________________________
Separation anxiety_____________________________________________________

COMMENTS:
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________

Staff member must sign and date comments: ______________________________

Signature Date

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 7.31.09

EWING TOWNSHIP ANIMAL SHELTER

OPERATING PROCEDURES

SECTION: Shelter Operations

SUBJECT: Intake Procedure

GENERAL POLICY:
INTAKE

When an animal is brought into the shelter for any reason, the following steps must be
taken.

1) Animal is placed in an intake cage and given appropriate food and water and
held there until it receives appropriate immunizations.

2) An intake form must be filled out immediately. The form should be the
intake form on the shelter computer program. If the computer is not
available, then the animal Information Sheet must be filled out. A cage card
with all necessary information must be placed on the cage.

3) Other staff should be made aware of any concerns or needs.

4) A file must be started with the cage number, shelter name and intake form.

5) The file should be left with the Shelter Manager to review and file.

6) Animals should only be transported in to the shelter by owner, animal control

officer who captured the animal or by person turning animal
in to shelter.

7) Caution should always be used when handling animals.

8) Bite gloves, animal carrier, leash, muzzle should be used when necessary.

Completing Intake Forms

All employees will complete Intake forms for all intake animals as outlined below.

The form should be completed at the time of intake.

1. Fill in the date the animal entered the shelter. For animals born at the
shelter, the intake date will be the date of birth. Be sure to enter the
animal breed, appearance, and color. Indicate whether the animal is

19
 7.31.09

juvenile (under 1 year) or adult.

2. Form must denote the location of impoundment (general address or

description of where the animal was found). If the animal
is turned in by owner, this must be noted on the intake form and the
animal release form is attached to the intake form.

3. Form must contain any specific information related to the animal such as
type and color of collar, any injuries noted on intake specific markings
of the animal which will aid in the owners identification of the animal,
etc. If the animal is a turn in, the form must contain any information that
the Owner provides as related to the animal.

4. If the animal is wearing any tag or other identification such as veterinary

ID this must also be recorded on the form.

5. Check the animal for a microchip and note if one is present or not. If
there is a microchip, the number and type of chip must be noted.

6. Indicate the type of animal. If the animal is part of a litter of puppies

or kittens, list the total number of animals brought in but provide a
separate identification number for each animal for separate identification
number for record purposes. When young litters of animals are received
which require special attention such as special feeding and they are fostered
to another group, this must be noted on our foster form and a copy of the
intake form is attached to the foster form.

7. If animal is found by a resident and being turned in, note the name and
address of the individual turning in the animal and the location where
it was found.

8. The individual completing the intake form must initial it and insure that
the cage number is assigned and appropriate identification of the animal
is entered into the shelter computer system so that the cage may be marked.

9. Intake animals will be housed in the isolation area away from the general
population until proper observation for illness, parasites, insect infestation
(fleas, etc.) can be done and the animal receives shelter prescribed.

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 7.31.09

EWING TOWNSHIP ANIMAL SHELTER

OPERATING PROCEDURES

SECTION: Shelter Operations/Administration

SUBJECT: Shelter Fee Schedule

GENERAL POLICY: The Ewing Township Animal Shelter will assess the following
fees for services rendered to attempt to offset some of the costs of operation. Only Ewing
Animal Shelter Supervision can change or cancel fees.

Adoption
Dogs and Puppies $75
Cats and Kittens $50

Redemption
First Day or portion thereof $11
Each additional day or portion thereof $7

Turn in of Dog $75

Turn in of Cat $60

When a fee is collected, the individual paying the fee will be provided with a receipt for
the monies collected from the fee receipt book.

The receipt shall contain the following:

1. Amount of money collected and the purpose of the fee.
2. The receipt shall be copied and a copy of the receipt forwarded with the
monies.
3. The receipt shall contain the case number of the animal that is related to the
fee.
4. A copy of the receipt will be placed into the file for the animal with the
appropriate form that the fee relates to (adoption, redemption, etc.)

All fees received at the Shelter will be forwarded to the Health Officer for forwarding to
the Chief Financial Officer within 48 hours of receipt, with the form developed by the
Finance Department to account for the funds received.

A copy of the form provided to the Chief Financial Officer shall be kept by the Health
Officer for records maintenance.

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 7.31.09

EWING TOWNSHIP ANIMAL SHELTER

OPERATING PROCEDURES

SECTION: Shelter Operations

SUBJECT: Parvo in Dogs and Puppies

GENERAL POLICY: Disease control is crucial in a shelter environment and the

following procedures are to be followed when an outbreak of Parvovirus is identified in
the shelter.

When any dog in the shelter is identified to have parvovirus, the following procedures
will be followed:

1. The infected animal will be isolated from the general population and the
shelter veterinarian will be notified.
2. Staff will follow the instructions provided by the veterinarian with respect
to animal movement, handling and medication.
3. Access to the shelter animals will be governed by the veterinarian.
4. All dog cages will be sanitized as frequently as the consulting veterinarian
stipulates.
5. Animals will be quarantined at the shelter and public will be able to observe,
but handling is only to be done when permitted by the shelter veterinarian.
6. Staff will utilize single service gloves when handling infected animals.
Gloves should be changed between each handling.
7. Frequent hand washing by staff when handling animals must be done.

EWING TOWNSHIP ANIMAL SHELTER

OPERATING PROCEDURES

SECTION: Administration: Communications

SUBJECT: Contact with Outside Sources

GENERAL POLICY: It is essential that all communications that emanate from the
Municipality be consistent and factual. For this reason, it is essential that when there is a
need to provide information to the media, that the information be provided to a central
source for dissemination.

1. Any communications related to the operation of the Animal Control

Program must be made by the Township Authorized person. When
information is requested, the requesting person should be referred to the
Health Officer.

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2. Information requests by residents of the Township or any other outside

agency, other than a recognized news media responding to an issue, must
be forwarded to the clerks office, who will prepare an OPRA
request form and forward it to the shelter administrative structure for
response. The response must be provided within 7 days.

3. In the event that a person involved in an incident related to the operation of

the Animal Control Program, requires information on the specific incident, the
response must be made through the Township administrative structure which
clarify include the Shelter Manager. The Shelter Manager must consult with
the Health Officer in charge of the shelter before information is disseminated.

EWING TOWNSHIP ANIMAL SHELTER

OPERATING PROCEDURES

SECTION: Shelter Operations

SUBJECT: Feeding of Animals

GENERAL POLICY: To insure that the animals residing in the shelter stay healthy and
remain in the best possible condition, the staff of the shelter must pay particular attention
to the feeding and water consumption of the animals. Any changes in the feeding habits
of an animal could be caused by impending illness or other condition which would affect
it’s temperament and adoptability.

DOGS:

1. Adult dogs will be fed once daily with an amount of food which
is consistent with their age and physical condition. Older dogs and
puppies may require more frequent feeding.
2. Emaciated animals should be fed in smaller amounts with greater
frequency.
3. Dogs and puppies will be fed using stainless steel bowls which are
washed and sanitized prior to each use.
4. Staff will observe the eating habits of the animals of the shelter and
if any animal deviates from the normal eating pattern for 24 hours,
veterinary consultation should be obtained.
5. Puppies less than 1 year old may be fed 2x per day.

CATS

1. Cats will be fed daily at the time when their cages are cleaned.
2. Cats and kittens will be fed using paper trays with water being
supplied in stainless steel bowls.
3. Kittens may be given a full ration of food “one” time during the day,
as they do not tend to overeat.

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 7.31.09

EWING TOWNSHIP ANIMAL SHELTER

OPERATING PROCEDURES

SECTION: Administration
SUBJECT: Monthly Report

GENERAL POLICY: Administratively, it is important to know at any given time the

number of animals, which have been processed through the Shelter and their eventual
disposition. The results of the activities of the animal shelter should be reported to the
Board of Health on a monthly basis. This is accomplished by the Shelter Manager
preparing a monthly report that is forwarded to the Health Officer for inclusion in the
monthly report of the Health activities in the community presented at the Board of Health
meetings.

1. The Shelter Manager shall prepare a monthly report of the activities of

the shelter on the Ewing Township Animal Shelter Monthly report form. This
form should be forwarded to the Health Officer within 5 days of the end of the
month, for which the report is prepared.

2. Information on this report should reflect all the shelter activities and should
include any special functions which involved the shelter during the reporting
month.

3. The information on the Monthly report form is directly related to the

information required on the Annual Shelter Operation Report for the
State of New Jersey and the execution of the annual report will be a
compilation of the information on all of the monthlies.

EWING TOWNSHIP ANIMAL SHELTER

OPERATING PROCEDURES

SECTION: Shelter Operations

SUBJECT: Veterinary Services

GENERAL POLICY: The Ewing Township Animal Shelter is committed to providing

the necessary Veterinary Care for the animals in the facility to control communicable
disease and insure the personal comfort of animals under their responsibility.

The Ewing Township Animal Shelter is under the direct Supervision of the consulting
DVM and all procedures will be approved by the DVM.
Animal Immunizations:

1. Animals received by the Ewing Township Animal Shelter will be segregated

24
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from the regular animal population until proper medical and temperament
evaluation of the animal may be accomplished.

2. Whenever possible, shelter staff will be trained by DVM to provide

immunizations for shelter animals to include the 3-1 immunization for cats
and the 6-1 immunizations for dogs. Only the Shelter Veterinarian or other
Veterinarian designated by the Shelter Veterinarian will provide Rabies
immunization for shelter animals.

3. Shelter animals will be examined for signs of illness and possible medical
conditions on a daily basis by shelter staff. When conditions are noted to be
present, the Shelter Manager will notify the DVM to obtain proper advice on
treatment or the need for further evaluation. When there is an obvious injury
or other condition that needs attention, and the DVM is not available, other
veterinary practices in the community may be contacted.

4. In the event of after hours injury to animals which requires immediate

attention, the animals will be transported either to the Animal Care
Emergency Services in PA, or to the Columbus Emergency Clinic.

5. The DVM of the Shelter will conduct weekly evaluations of the shelter
animals and provide Rabies immunizations for those animals that have
not been immunized.

6. Shelter staff will maintain a list of animals which have been identified to
require evaluation or treatment by the shelter veterinarian. When the
veterinarian visits, the files of the listed animals will be removed from the
filing system for veterinary evaluation and to allow the proper identification
of animals which receive care. When any veterinary care is provided to any
animal in the shelter, the appropriate form will be filled out, which must
include the ETAS number of the animal receiving treatment. All subsequent
treatments will be recorded on a treatment form with the ETAS identification
number, which will be placed into the animal’s file

7. All records of animal medications or supplemental immunizations will

be recorded on appropriate form with the ETAS number. This paperwork
will be completed at the time of the immunization to properly insure that
all records will be completed in a timely fashion.

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 7.31.09

EWING TOWNSHIP ANIMAL SHELTER

OPERATING PROCEDURES

SECTION: Operations
SUBJECT: Handling of Animal Bites

GENERAL POLICY: One of the most important functions of animal control is the
control of the spread of communicable diseases, which are transmitted from animals to
man. In addition to such conditions ringworm, scabies and other parasitic organisms, the
most serious of these is Rabies. The Animal Control Officer acts to investigate the bites
related to domestic animals and also wild animals to determine the possibility of the
spread of Rabies.

1. When an animal bite is reported to the Health Department, it is referred

to the Animal Control Officer for investigation. The Animal Control will
visit both the person bitten and the owner of the biting animal if it is a
domestic animal. The results of the visits will be recorded on the Health
Department Bite form and when appropriate, the biting animal will be
quarantined.

2. Any domestic animal that is involved in a biting incident is required to be

quarantined and placed under observation for a period of 10 days. During that
period, if anything happens to the animal, illness or death, etc., the Health
Department must be notified and appropriate action taken based on the
information gathered from the treating Veterinarian and the severity of the
bite.
3. At the time of the bite investigation, the Animal Control Officer must also
evaluate the biting animal and the circumstances surrounding the bite to
determine if the animal should be classified as potentially dangerous. If it is
the opinion of the Animal Control Officer that this animal should be classified
as Potentially Dangerous, it should be reported to the Health Officer so that
the process of declaring the animal as potentially dangerous can be initiated.

4. Should the owner of the biting animal decide that he no longer wanted the
animal and it is decided that the animal will be euthanized within the 10 day
quarantine period, the head of the animal must be removed and transported to
the State Department of Health Laboratory in Trenton for testing for rabies.

5. The Animal Control Officer must fill out the Request for Rabies Examination
Form, which must accompany the animal when it is submitted for testing.
Information on this form allows the results of the test to be returned to the
Ewing Township Health Department so that the person bitten may be notified.

6. When a person is bitten by a stray domestic animal of unknown origin, the

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Animal Control Officer will immediately initiate a search for the animal so
that any potential for rabies may be identified and treatment for the bite may
be administered appropriately.

7. If in the opinion of the Animal Control Officer the owner of the biting
animal does not have the ability to appropriately confine the animal according
to quarantine regulations, the Health Officer should be contacted to obtain
permission to confiscate the animals for holding until the quarantine period is
completed. The owner of the animal will be charged the regular fees for
retention of animals at the shelter.

EWING TOWNSHIP ANIMAL SHELTER

OPERATING PROCEDURES

SECTION: Operations
SUBJECT: Enforcement of Township Ordinances Related to Animal Control

GENERAL POLICY: The presence of domestic animals in a residential community

creates problems related to animal management, nuisance, disease control, etc. The
Animal Control Officer is the person responsible to enforce the Township Ordinances
and State Laws related to animal maintenance.

1. The following State and Local ordinances relate to animals in Ewing

Township and their enforcement is a function of animal control.

a. Public Health Nuisance Code - Barking, animal feeding which

encourages insect and rodent infestations, etc.

b. Township Leash Law – prohibits dogs from running at large

in the Community.

c. The Pooper Scooper Law – which define the need to pick up

waste, which is deposited by an owned animal.

d. Laws related to animal bites.

e. Township Dog License Regulations.

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 7.31.09

EWING TOWNSHIP ANIMAL SHELTER

OPERATING PROCEDURES

SECTION: Shelter Operations: Administration

SUBJECT: Emergency Procedures

GENERAL POLICY: It is essential that there be a plan in place to provide a

predetermined response to emergent situations. Shelter staff must know and understand
the procedures which must be followed so that we can minimize the loss of staff or
animals.

The following procedures are essential in maintaining the ability to provide a reasonable
response to emergent situations which will minimize injury or death of staff, volunteers
or animals.

FIRE RESPONSE

1. The Shelter Manager must insure that a fire inspection is conducted

on an annual basis by a certified provider of this service.

2. A checklist of the locations which have fire equipment or safety lighting

must be maintained in the office and the locations on this list are checked on a
monthly basis, with a written report being provided of the check.

3. Where the monthly check identifies a condition which needs to be addressed,

the shelter staff will immediately make arrangements to have the condition
corrected.

4. A diagram of the facility will be posted in the shelter office and at locations
where individuals may be located in the facility identifying the exits and the
locations of the nearest fire suppression equipment.

5. Training will be conducted by the Shelter Manager for the shelter staff and
volunteers related to the operation of any fire suppression equipment located
at the shelter.

6. A record of all fire inspections conducted at the facility by staff and outside
contractors shall be maintained in the administrative section of the shelter
filing system.

7. Emergency numbers for fire, personal injury, police response shall be kept in
plain view immediately adjacent to all phones in the facility and also in the
dog and cat areas where volunteers work.

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PERSONAL INJURY

1. All persons injured in the Ewing Animal Shelter will be taken to the
immediate care facility located at Robert Wood Johnson on Lower Ferry
Road for evaluation.

2. At times when the facility at Robert Wood Johnson is not operational,

treatment will be provided at the nearest Emergency room with documentation
being provided.

3. A report of the injury will be completed within 24 hours by the shelter staff.
This report will be forwarded to the Health Department for processing. The
report of injury will also require that a review of the circumstances related to
the injury and any procedures that may have been utilized which would
eliminate the injury. The shelter supervisor will fill out this report.

4. Biting incidents related to shelter animals will be handled by the Animal

Control Officer or Shelter Manager. A quarantine will be placed on the
offending animal and a bite report will be made out detailing the
circumstances of the bite and the individuals involved. Where there
is some concern about the animal that bit, a decision will be made to
euthanize the animal and forward the head to the State Health Department
for rabies testing.

5. Decision will be made to euthanize an animal by the DVM.

CONDITIONS REQUIRING EVACUATION OF THE SHELTER

When conditions are present that require the evacuation of the shelter animals and
staff, the following procedures will be instituted:

1. Shelter staff will check the shelter to insure that all persons are evacuated
safely.

2. Shelter staff will utilize the emergency numbers posted in the shelter to
advise police and appropriate response personnel.

3. Shelter staff will begin preparing the animals for evacuation and the Shelter
Manager will make the appropriate calls to other facilities which are capable
of housing the animals. The phone numbers for these facilities will be posted
at the shelter and also available to the police department in the event that
access to the office is restricted.

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 7.31.09

EWING TOWNSHIP ANIMAL SHELTER

OPERATING PROCEDURES

SECTION: Shelter Operations/Administration

SUBJECT: Records Keeping

GENERAL POLICY: The process of documenting the animals in our care and their
status in our system is essential in maintaining a facility of this nature. The function of
the Animal Shelter is to remove wayward animals from our community and insure that
they may be kept in a manner so that an owner may reclaim a pet or an animal which is
lost, and a truly stray animal which is adoptable may be placed into a loving home. To
do this, it is essential that we know the animals in our system and their status even if they
are not housed within our facility. The records for any given animal must reflect it’s final
disposition.

1. The identification number is attached to the animal in question using a collar

or tag which contains the following:
A. animal name
B. identification number
C. date into the shelter
D. date available for adoption
E. cage assignment
Proper tagging of the animals will enable volunteers who are socializing
animals outside of their assigned cages or taking animals out for adoption
programs to return them properly. Staff will be responsible to insure that the
animal are returned to their proper cages.

2. Upon intake, a physical inspection will be conducted by shelter staff and a

digital picture of the animal will be taken to document it’s condition and any
injuries which may be present when the animal entered our care. This
information must be included in the file for the animal.

3. When the intake inspection of the animal indicates the presence of medical
conditions, the Shelter Veterinarian will be contacted to determine the severity
of the injury and the need for immediate veterinary care. **Field evaluation
of any animal injury to a stray animal should be handled by the ACO and
appropriate treatment sought after consultation with the Shelter Manager.
The Shelter Manager will notify the Shelter Veterinarian of the incident so
that consultation may be provided when diagnosis of the injury is made.

4. The intake form will be placed into a file for the animal which is stored
in the assigned cage file. All records related to this animal must be
marked with the shelter computer system ID number, as this is the only
number which is specific to this animal.

5. All animals brought into the shelter as strays will be kept in the intake

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area until proper shots may be given or an owner appears to claim his
animal. Animals will remain in the intake area and away from the
general population until they are evaluated for disease and are
provided with the appropriate immunizations (6/1 for dogs and
3/1 for cats).

6. Cages in the intake are cleaned in the same manner as the cages in
the general population.

7. Animals in the intake area which are noted to possibly have disease,
must be relocated to the isolation area to reduce the possibility of
disease transmission to other animals in the facility.

8. When animals are brought to the shelter which require special

attention, which may not be in the capability of our staff, efforts
must be made to provide for the maintenance of a service level
for these animals. It may be necessary to obtain assistance from
local rescue groups who have members who perform specialized
duties, especially for small kittens and puppies which require
special handling.
If these animals are relocated to a foster situation, they must
be logged in first to obtain an identification number and a
file is created in our office indicating the fostering of the
animals.
This file must contain:
The date of intake
The appropriate foster form with all information
Date of Fostering
Group or individual fostered to with contact information.
When animals are returned from a foster situation,
the records will indicate the date of return
or if the animals were adopted from foster,
the adoption form from the adopting group
will be placed into the file.
This file will be placed in the Fostered Animal File in our office and it will remain
active until a final disposition is obtained for the animal.

TURN IN BY OWNERS

When an animal is brought to the shelter by an owner who no longer is able to

care for it, the intake of this animal is to be done by full time shelter staff only. This
includes the shelter attendants, Shelter Manager or Animal Control Officer. In addition
to the normal intake form, it is essential that the owner fill out and sign a Release Form
which relinquishes ownership of the animal to the shelter and will enable the shelter to
eliminate the required 7 day holding period and place the animal up for adoption or

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relocation immediately. The staff person taking in the animal shall insure that the
following information is obtained from the owner:

1. Name of the animal

2. Shot records of the animal.
3. Temperament of the animal *this must be documented at the time
of the turn in by the appropriate shelter staff.
4. Age of the animal.
5. Medical conditions known to the owner (i.e., spay/neuter) allergies,
sensitivities
6. Animal’s veterinarian
7. Any special habits of the animal which will affect the adoptability,
such as various types of aggression, etc.

** Staff will make a copy of the turning in person’s driver’s license and insure that a
phone number is recorded in the event that further information is necessary.

TO INSURE THAT WE ARE ABLE TO MAINTAIN AN ACCURATE RECORD

OF THE ANIMALS IN THE SHELTER AND UNDER OUR CARE AT OTHER
LOCATIONS AT ANY TIME, IT IS ESSENTIAL THAT THE SHELTER
PERSON CONDUCTING THE INTAKE OF AN ANIMAL INSURE THAT THE
FOLLOWING IS DONE:

1. ENTER THE ANIMAL ON THE SHELTER CENSUS BOARD.

2. ENTER THE ANIMAL ON THE ANIMAL LOG SHEET WHICH

ALLOWS US TO FOLLOW EVERY ANIMAL IN OUR CARE,
INCLUDING FINAL DISPOSITION.

EWING TOWNSHIP ANIMAL SHELTER

OPERATING PROCEDURES

SECTION: Shelter Operations

SUBJECT: Animal Trap List Maintenance

GENERAL POLICY: Throughout the year, residents encounter nuisance animals that
they would like removed from their property. The Animal Control Section owns a
limited number of live animal traps which are distributed to the Community residents to
assist in the removal of these animals.

1. State law prohibits the Animal Control Officers to set up traps for
wildlife. We are permitted to set traps for domestic animals (dogs
and cats) only. Residents desiring to trap wildlife should be directed
to a commercial firm that provides traps and handles animals. Should

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the resident decide to provide their own traps, the Animal Control
Officers will be dispatched to assist the resident in the removal of
any animal caught.

2. Dogs and cats, which are caught in the traps, will be transported to the
shelter and entered into the intake system until an owner may be found.
The person bringing the animal to the shelter will do the intake when
available and will provide the necessary forms to allow for the intake
to be done by shelter staff if time does not permit.

3. When the supply of Township owned traps is completely placed in the

community, requests for traps will be placed onto the Animal Trap List
and when traps become available, they will be offered to residents on
the list on a “first come first served” basis.

4. In the event that there is an imminent health threat posed by the presence
of any animals, and the supply of traps is completely depleted due to
placement in the community, the Health Officer may direct that traps
be recalled to be used to abate the identified hazard.

EWING TOWNSHIP ANIMAL SHELTER

OPERATING PROCEDURES

SECTION: Administration
SUBJECT: Employee Identification – Uniforms

GENERAL POLICY: The position of Animal Control Officer is a quasi enforcement

position and it is essential that the public be able to identify the Animal Control Officers
presence as a representative of the Township. To insure that the Animal Control Officer
is distinguishable, a uniform allowance is provided to enable the ACO to purchase the
necessary clothing. It is expected that the Animal Control Officer will wear the
appropriate uniform, patches and badge at all time during normal working hours.

1. The Animal Control Officer will wear a uniform at all times during
the normal scheduled working shift. The uniform will consist of a
uniform shirt, which has the appropriate patches, uniform pants, boots,
and badge. The uniform will identify the Animal Control Officer as
a representative of Ewing Township. The uniform color will be
determined by the Ewing Township Animal Shelter Manager.

2. In addition to the uniform, the Animal Control Officer will wear a name
badge also identifying him as a representative of Ewing Township.

3. During the winter months, when it is necessary to wear additional

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clothing such as jackets, the jacket will contain the appropriate

patches and writing identifying the wearer as a representative of
Ewing Township Animal Control.

4. Animal Control Officers will be exempted from the requirement for

wearing the uniform when they are called out after normal hours to
answer calls for emergent situations.

EWING TOWNSHIP ANIMAL SHELTER

OPERATING PROCEDURES

SECTION: Shelter Operations

SUBJECT: Handling of Complaints from Public for Animal Control

GENERAL POLICY: Animal Complaints generated by the public or other municipal

employees, shall be handled immediately or as soon as possible to insure proper
protection of the public.

1. All complaints received at the shelter for Animal Control matters will
be logged in on the appropriate form and given a response number. The
information will be forwarded immediately to the Animal Control Officer
for response.

2. The Shelter Manager will oversee the log in procedure and insure that a
response is provided within a reasonable time period. Information taken for
complaints must include:

i. the nature of complaint

ii. phone number for contact of complainant
iii. address of complaint and any other pertinent information
such as animals involved, description of problem, etc.
iv. information as to how the property may be accessed
for response.

3. The individual making the complaint should not be given an exact time of
response as the time of the Animal Control Officer in the field is sometimes
unpredictable. The transfer of information related to time may cause some
dismay with the complainant if the time given is not met.

4. The Animal Control Officer should communicate with the Shelter staff on
a regular basis so that they may be informed as to the progress of the
complaint responses, but this information in no way should be transferred
to complainants.

5. Shelter staff should not demand arrival times from the Animal Control

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Officer for any reason.

6. Once the complain has been given to the Animal Control Officer for response,
and the complaint has been logged into the register, there should be no further
updates until the Animal Control Officer reports that he has successfully
responded to the complaint or that he is experiencing difficulty with the
response and needs assistance either from the homeowner or an outside
agency such as a cooperating animal control department or the police.

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 7.31.09

VOLUNTEER APPLICATION
PLEASE PRINT

______________________
DATE OF APPLICATION

___________________________________________________ ________________
PLEASE PRINT NAME DATE OF BIRTH

______________________________________________________________________________________
STREET ADDRESS CITY STATE ZIP CODE

___________________________________ ______________________________
HOME ADDRESS CELL PHONE

CURRENT OCCUPATION

EXPERIENCE OR SKILLS YOU WOULD BE WILLING TO SHARE WITH THE BUREAU OF

ANIMAL CONTROL.

WHAT TYPES OF VOLUNTEER JOBS ARE YOU INTERESTED IN ? (PLEASE CIRCLE)

(1) Dog Socializing (4) Dog Walker

(2) Cat Socializing (5) Adoption Day Volunteer

(3) Cat Room Worker (6) Foster Parent

RESTRICTIONS THAT COULD AFFECT YOUR WORKING ABILITY: _____________________

TIME AVAILABLE FOR WORK: AFTERNOON WEEKEND

In case of Emergency notify:

______________________________________________________________________________________
RELATIONSHIP

HOME PHONE _______________________WORK/CELL PHONE____________________________

I FULLY UNDERSTAND THAT THIS IS A VOLUNTEER POSITION AND THAT I WILL NOT
RECEIVE ANY MONEYS OR OTHER PROFIT FOR MY SERVICES. I AGREE TO
CARRYOUT THE INSTRUCTIONS I RECEIVE. I HAVE READ AND UNDERSTAND THIS
APPLICATION, ALL ARTICLES AND THE VOLUNTEER CONTRACT.

________________________________________ _____________________
SIGNATURE OF APPLICANT DATE

THIS IS PART 1 OF 3, ALL THREE PARTS MAKE ONE COMPLETE APPLICATION AND
MUST BE TOGETHER TO BE VALID.

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 7.31.09

VOLUNTEER CONTRACT
I _________________ HEREBY ENTER THIS CONTRACT WITH THE TOWNSHIP OF
EWING ANIMAL CONTROL, FREELY WITH FULL KNOWLEDGE OF THE DANGERS
AND HAZARDS INVOLVED IN HANDLING UNKNOWN ANIMALS. I FURTHER
RELIEVE THE TOWNSHIP OF EWING, DIVISION OF ANIMAL CONTROL, ITS
EMPLOYEES, AGENTS, REPRESENTATIVES AND OTHER VOLUNTEERS OF ANY AND
ALL RESPONSIBILITES FOR ANY INJURIES, ILLNESSES OR HAZARDS I MAY
ENCOUNTER DURING MY VOLUNTEER SERVICE.

I WILL FOLLOW DIRECTIVES AND REPRESENT THE TOWNSHIP OF EWING,

DIVISION OF ANIMAL CONTROL IN A PROFESSIONAL MANNER AT ALL TIMES. I
WILL NOT MAKE DECISIONS WHICH EFFECT THE WELFARE OF ANY ANIMAL
WITHOUT FIRST CONSULTING WITH THE SHELTER MANAGER OR HISHER
DESIGNEE. I WILL GIVE ONLY THE BEST CARE AND HANDLING OF ALL ANIMALS
IN MY CHARGE. I PROMISE TO BE AT WORK ON TIME AND TO WORK THE
SCHEDULE I HAVE VOLUNTEERED FOR.

I WILL OBEY THE ARTICLES AND POLICY’S SET FORTH BY THE TWONSHIP
DIVISION OF ANIMAL CONTROL.

ALL VOLUNTEERS MUST BE AT LEAST 18 YEARS OF AGE OR ACCOMPANIED BY A

PARENT TO WORK OR VOLUNTEER AT THE SHELTER.

______________________________________ _____ / ______/____

PLEASE PRINT NAME DATE OF BIRTH

__________________________________________________________________________________
STREET ADDRESS CITY STATE ZIP CODE

______________________________________ ___/____ /_____ ______________

SIGNATURE DATE PHONE #

_______________________________________
SIGNATURE OF PARENT OR GUARDIAN

THIS IS PART 2 OF 3, ALL THREE PARTS MAKE ONE COMPLETE APPLICATION AND
MUST BE TOGETHER TO BE VALID.

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 7.31.09

RESPONSIBILITIES FOR ANIMAL SHELTER VOLUNTEERS

Volunteers can play an important role in the placement of dogs and cats. Certain rules
and restrictions however, must be implemented to protect the shelter from liability.
The following basic rules must be followed and observed by the volunteers:

All volunteers must be approved by the shelter manager prior to their admittance
into the kennel to work with the casts or dogs.

All volunteers must be interviewed by Health Officer and or Shelter Manager

before being approved to work at the Ewing Animal Shelter.

All volunteers must sign in and out upon entering and leaving the shelter.

No minors will be allowed to volunteer at the Shelter whether they are with an
adult or not. This creates a liability which is too great to assume.

No volunteers will be left in the shelter without the presence of staff.

No volunteers will feed the animals at any time without the approval of
management.

Volunteers must not combine kittens or cats into the same cage as this will cause
confusion in the case numbers.

Most volunteers clean up after they are finished and even assist the staff at times
in this area. For the few that do not clean up, this action must change and they
must understand that this is an important directive in continuing with their
assistance.

At no time will any advertising or solicitation of donations and supplies be made

by volunteers without the approval of the administration. The Shelter Manager
must be notified of the request before it is passed on to the Health Officer with the
final approval determined by the Director.

At no time will photographs be taken in the shelter by volunteers, without

following the same protocol as stated above for other requests.

I HEREBY AGREE TO COMPLY WITH THE ABOVE RESPONSIBILITIES

__________________________________
Signature Date

THIS IS PART 3 OF 3, ALL THREE PARTS MAKE ONE COMPLETE APPLICATION AND
MUST BE TOGETHER TO BE VALID.

38