Playgroups
Roles and Responsibilities
Playgroups generally require 2-3 people at minimum depending on the number of dogs and their play styles. Personnel may be paid staff or volunteers. Playgroup personnel roles include:
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Lead;
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Assistant;
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Runner
Some responsibilities may be shared between lead, assistant, and runner, or may overlap. The lead will be the primary decision-maker. Good communication and a clear plan should be in place so that all personnel know what they are doing. Staff and volunteers should complete playgroup training before participating in playgroups.
RESPONSIBILITIES OF PLAYGROUP LEAD:
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Select dogs to be included in the playgroup based on dog profiles and previous playgroup history (see Selecting Dogs for Playgroups);
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Assign tasks to assistants & runners (for example, watch a particular dog closely, mind leashes that are dragging, bring a new dog from a kennel into the play area, etc);
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Direct assistants’ and runners’ responses to tension between dogs, injuries or fights;
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Keep dogs away from entrance to prevent dogs from clustering around a new arrival;
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Monitor new dogs added to the playgroup;
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Narrate body language & model interventions for any trainees;
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Record data & share with relevant staff.
RESPONSIBILITIES OF PLAYGROUP ASSISTANTS:
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Monitor all dogs and alert lead to problems;
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Manage/wrangle any lines or leashes dragging;
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Keep dogs away from entrance to prevent dogs from clustering around a new arrival;
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Assist as directed with reducing tension between dogs and breaking up fights;
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Carry out any other tasks assigned by the playgroup lead.
RESPONSIBILITIES OF PLAYGROUP RUNNERS:
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Prepare playgroup space and gear;
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Bring/take dogs to/from play area;
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Refill water dishes/buckets;
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Bring needed supplies like treats or clean leashes;
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Assist with cleaning yards between playgroups;
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Get more help if needed during fights or other incidents.