How can you foster positive relationships with fellow animal rescue volunteers?

We are so often judged by the quality of the questions we ask. Talk in the other person’s interests. Begin with a warm smile.

To actively listen is to help them reach the end goal. Sometimes, to actively listen is to step in for them temporarily. Transportation, recovery, trapping, you are the Leader of your respected organization and sometimes you will need to do it yourself instead of finding someone else. Not only does it show that you are still willing to do the work of those you lead but also will keep your skills sharp!

For 5 years I was an integral part of volunteer dog rescue, mainly from Romania & Spain where conditions can be harsh. Working with others in collaboration, listening and developing plans as to how we could rescue more animals, was an integral part of the communications in place. We were strangers, having never met, but collectively we achieved so much. I was a trusted member of the rescue community, and always listened to see if I could come up with a plan for implementation.

Asking open ended questions that don't have a yes or no answer allow me to listen and learn to others. I have trouble connecting with people as is. Listening allows me to get to know them and see their view.

The idea is to be totally transparent from the beginning while you are still in the planning stages. A lot of times the volunteers that you manage are the caretakers who watch over the colonies. The transparency of what is expected, and what the limits of the organization are. Most of all, what is best for the animal!

Fostering positive relationships with fellow animal rescue volunteers involves showing appreciation, being reliable, and communicating openly. Share responsibilities, offer support during challenging rescues, and celebrate successes together. Bond over shared passion for animal welfare and organize social events to strengthen camaraderie.

By Organizing fundraising events and social media campaigns to raise awareness and funds for the cause, while also bringing volunteers together to work towards a common goal. Speak out against animal cruelty and promote responsible pet ownership. Encourage teamwork and involvement to create a sense of community among volunteers and inspire others to join in the effort, highlighting that even small actions make a big difference.

Animal activists, and rescue volunteers are definately individuals that I value and that I want in my life as friends. Their compassion and kindness, and their respect to animals are not traits that every human possesses. I think that's why when we are rescuing animals it means so much to each and every one of us. When there is a success, every one celebrates together. In the case of failure, everyone cries, or feels terrible, together. I have never felt this community bond, with any other groups of people in my entire life.

"Sharing the load" also comes to mind. I was a paid employee for a private vet and private welfare organization, so I was obviously expected to take on more than an unpaid volunteer. Volunteers have to work together so that all the pressure is not on one person. Working together and supporting each other is imperative for the volunteers sanity and the proper care of the animals.

Understand that even though the current goal is completed or they are requesting an extended break for an unknown amount of time does not mean that the book is closed. With anyone who leaves on terms other than abrasive conditions, there should only be a place holder due to life’s events.

I think offering support to fellow animal rescuers is crucial. Too many people are too quick to criticize others for things they would have done differently (in every area of life). I think acknowledging that someone has gone out of their way to do something to make a difference is the best way to foster positive relationships, regardless of whether or not you would do things the same way. People are much more likely to listen to your ideas and constructive criticism if they first feel you appreciate them.

Very important! Regular staff meetings and proper handovers will ensure things run smoothly and that there is NO CONFUSION or passing of blame.

To educate, a lot! Sometime what must be done does not line up with their expectations or their wishes. Educate on the dangers of what they are requesting and the reality of the “start to finish” sometimes putting them in the spot to support their wishes helps them realize it is not possible with that is available. Also utilize past experiences to pad the education with reality.