Dog Show Coordination
A major volunteer responsibility in PAW is the coordination of the adoption shows. This pertains to regular shows at the pet stores, not to special events and festivals (although many items could apply to all).
The following tasks can be split among several volunteers (including the dog coordinator, dog show organizer, and show setup organizers):
- Evaluate Show Locations
- Prepare Show Schedule
- Show Setup
- Show Kit Preparation
- Between-Show Activities
- Day-of-Show Activities
Evaluate Show Locations
What makes a good store location? It’s the space, the management, Saturday versus Sunday availability, the number of potential attendees, and the quality of the applications received. This and other factors are subjective since opinions may vary among volunteers.
Prepare Show Schedule
Usually, the adoption shows follow a regular cycle each month. PAW is at the same store on the first Saturday of the month, the second Saturday and so on. Note: any PAW decisions regarding show locations must be approved by store directors or managers. Call the store to discuss the proposed change before revising the schedule.
Show Setup
The Show Setup person for each show is responsible for working with the Show Coordinator to ensure the show is scheduled properly with the store and everything is ready to go prior to the show. During the show the Show Setup person is responsible for:
- Bringing everything needed for the show and setting up the table.
- Getting the area ready for the dogs prior to their arrival.
- Taking attendance when the volunteers arrive and immediately reporting any volunteer issues/no-shows to the Show Coordinator.
- Providing Name Badges to all volunteers.
- Assisting with answering questions from the public and helping the volunteers if any issues arise during the show.
Show Kit Preparation
The Show Setup organizer must bring the following to each show (each Show Setup person has their own set-up kit):
PAW ADOPTION SHOW SET-UP KIT:
- water bowls
- paper towels
- pens
- name badges for the volunteers – peel off type or permanent in plastic holders
- collars, leashes, etc.
- dog toys
- dog treats
- extra poop bags/plastic bags
- hand sanitizer
- first aid kit
- donation box
- adoption applications
- PAW brochures and brochure holder
- PAW Shakes newsletters
- PAW business cards
- the Dog Show email listing which dogs and volunteers are expected at the show
- trash can & trash bags
- tablecloth
- show signs
- folding table (if the store doesn’t provide one)
Between-Show Activities
On a weekly basis, the show kit should be restocked for the next show. This usually means table handouts, forms, and show supplies. Make copies of forms and handouts for the table.
Day-of-Show Activities (Show Set-up Organizer)
1. Meet with the manager
Arrival time varies by store, by manager, by whether the setup person has other volunteer assistance. Discuss where that day’s space is for dogs. Find out any rules or preferences, such as being in the center of an aisle, along one side, or outside the store.
2. Set up the table
Lay out the various handouts, adoption applications, etc. for the public along with pens, donation box, business cards, hand sanitizer, dog treats, etc.
