As we transition into Spring and enjoy longer walking days, I would like to remind all volunteers, both new and experienced, of the following important Ranch guidelines:

·  Harnesses: It is a Ranch policy that all dogs are to be harnessed. Please remove the harness after walking if indicated on the Resident’s whiteboard. Even if a dog appears to be an “easy” walker, it is essential to harness them to promote proper safety practices at the Ranch.

· Leashes: All dogs must be equipped with two leashes (a clip leash and a slip lead).

· Safe Distance: Maintain a safe distance between dogs and handlers during walks. A minimum distance of 10 feet is recommended, though it is best practice to avoid being in the immediate vicinity of another dog being walked.

· Handling Multiple Dogs: If you find it challenging to handle or control more than one dog, please request assistance from another volunteer…

Thankfully, Kota will survive Hemi's attack but not without extreme pain while enduring bites over two inches deep into his neck, then a four-hour emergency surgery costing thousands of dollars.

Most accidents, injuries, and deaths at the sanctuary occur when individuals are not paying attention to what they are doing. In a split second, we can't reverse the outcome, no matter how remorseful we feel.

Human and animal safety must be the top priority for everyone interacting with our residents. Whether it's an apartment latch, a gate latch, or a double harness, please take a close look at it, touch it, and then look at it again.

Life is precious. Please treat it as such.