Rescued Pets Movement Volunteer & Foster Agreement, Assumption of Risk, and Release of Liability

Rescued Pets Movement, Inc. (“RPM”) is dedicated to rescuing homeless and abandoned pets, ensuring their well-being, and ultimately transporting them to our rescue partners to find loving homes. Volunteers and fosters play a critical role in achieving RPM’s mission. To maintain the highest standards of animal care, safety, professionalism, and organizational integrity, RPM has established the following Code of Conduct, Assumption of Risk, Release of Liability, and Foster Agreement.

RPM reserves the right to implement, modify, and enforce additional policies, procedures, and safety requirements at any time without notice. All such policies are considered part of this agreement, whether included in full or incorporated by reference.

By signing this document, you acknowledge that you have read, understand, and agree to comply with all RPM policies, procedures, and expectations.

1. Dress Code Requirements for In-Person Volunteering at RPM’s Facilities

Slip-Resistant, Closed-Toe Footwear

Volunteers, fosters, and visitors entering animal care or clinic areas must wear closed-toe, slip-resistant, water-resistant shoes or boots at all times.

Footwear must provide adequate traction, a secured heel, and a protective sole suitable for wet, dirty, slippery, or uneven surfaces commonly encountered in animal care areas.

Sandals, Crocs, open-toed shoes, flip-flops, high heels, slides, slippers, or worn-out footwear are strictly prohibited while volunteering or handling RPM animals.

Full-Length Pants

Volunteers must wear long pants made from durable material such as jeans, work pants, or similar clothing that provides protection from scratches, bites, jumping, cleaning chemicals, animal waste, and abrasions. Shorts, skirts, dresses or other clothing that does not provide adequate protection are not permitted while handling animals or cleaning.

2. General Responsibilities

Respect and Compassion

Treat all animals, volunteers, fosters, staff, donors, rescue partners, shelter partners, contractors, members of the public, and stakeholders with respect, kindness, and compassion at all times.

Professionalism

Conduct yourself in a professional manner while representing RPM. This includes punctuality, reliability, honesty, appropriate communication, following instructions, and acting in a manner that reflects positively on RPM.

Confidentiality

Respect the confidentiality of RPM operations, donor information, rescue partner information, medical information, internal policies, legal matters, staffing matters, financial information, foster locations, receiving rescue partners, and any sensitive information learned while volunteering or fostering.

Confidential information may not be shared publicly, with media, on social media, or with outside parties unless specifically authorized by RPM leadership.

Restrictions on Use of RPM Information with Receiving Partners

Fosters and volunteers who are affiliated with, volunteer with, or have relationships with any of RPM’s receiving rescue partners may not use information obtained through their role with RPM to contact, communicate with, or engage those partners regarding any RPM animal.

This includes, but is not limited to:

• Using knowledge of an animal’s destination, transport, or placement
• Requesting updates, status, or outcomes
• Attempting to influence placement decisions
• Sharing internal RPM information with receiving partners
  

All communication with receiving partners regarding RPM animals must be conducted solely through authorized RPM staff.

This restriction applies regardless of any personal, professional, or volunteer affiliation with a receiving partner.

Unauthorized communication or use of RPM information may:

• Disrupt coordinated rescue and placement efforts
• Violate confidentiality expectations
• Create operational, relational, or legal risk for RPM
  

Violation of this policy may result in removal from volunteer or foster participation and may result in restriction from future involvement with RPM.

Inactivity Clause

As part of our record keeping and database management protocols, if you have not been actively involved in assisting RPM for an extended amount of time, you may be removed from RPM mailing lists and social media groups without notice.

3. Animal Care Expectations

Safety and Well-Being

Ensure the safety, health, and well-being of all animals under your care. This includes providing food, water, shelter, exercise, emotional support, medication, and veterinary care as instructed by RPM.

Medical Needs

Promptly report any signs of illness, injury, distress, abnormal behavior, diarrhea, vomiting, limping, coughing, sneezing, lethargy, parasites, or medical concerns to RPM staff.

Volunteers and fosters must follow all veterinary instructions, medication schedules, quarantine instructions, and medical restrictions provided by RPM.

Any bite, scratch breaking the skin, animal fight, wildlife exposure, escape, potential rabies exposure, or significant injury involving an RPM animal must be reported to RPM immediately.

Behavioral Handling

Only use positive reinforcement and humane handling techniques. Physical punishment, intimidation, yelling, hitting, alpha rolling, leash corrections intended to cause pain, prong collars, shock collars, or harsh handling are strictly prohibited.

Supplies and Support

Volunteers and fosters must promptly notify RPM regarding any needs for food, medications, crates, cleaning supplies, litter, leashes, collars, bedding, veterinary care, or other support items.

Dog Park Prohibition

RPM animals may not be taken to public dog parks under any circumstances.

Public dog parks present significant and unacceptable risks, including but not limited to:

• Exposure to contagious diseases, including parvovirus, kennel cough, and other illnesses
• Exposure to parasites and unsanitary conditions
• Interaction with unknown, unvaccinated, or aggressive animals
• Increased risk of injury, overstimulation, or behavioral regression
  

Approved enrichment activities include:

• On-leash walks for appropriately vaccinated, adult dogs
• Exercise in controlled, secure, and approved environments
  

Violation of this policy is considered a serious safety risk. RPM may suspend or terminate volunteer or foster participation immediately, with or without notice, for any violation.

Puppy Outdoor Access Restrictions

RPM puppies may be allowed supervised access to private, secured backyards only for brief potty breaks and controlled outdoor time.

All other outdoor environments are prohibited, including but not limited to:

• Front yards
• Public sidewalks, streets, or shared spaces
• Dog parks, trails, or nature areas
• Apartment complex grounds or communal outdoor areas
• Pet stores or animal-related businesses
• RPM clinic grounds, puppies must be carried at all times when entering or exiting
  

Puppies may not have contact with unknown, unvaccinated, or non-approved animals.

Fosters must:

• Maintain direct supervision at all times while puppies are outdoors
• Ensure the area is secure and minimizes exposure risk
• Immediately clean and dispose of waste
• Monitor for and promptly report any signs of illness
  

Failure to follow this policy may result in removal of the animal and/or termination of foster participation.

Off-Site Event & Public Exposure Policy

By participating in RPM foster, volunteer, transport, or animal handling activities, you acknowledge that working with animals involves inherent and unpredictable risks, including but not limited to bites, scratches, zoonotic disease exposure, escapes, property damage, injury to persons or animals, and other unforeseen incidents. This section is incorporated into and forms part of the overall RPM foster and volunteer agreement and liability waiver.

RPM animals may not be taken to off-site events, public gatherings, or uncontrolled environments without prior written approval from RPM leadership.

This includes, but is not limited to:

• Schools, summer camps, and youth programs
• Festivals, fairs, markets, or public gatherings
• Bar crawls, bars, breweries, or nightlife events
• Dog parks or off-leash areas
• Restaurants or patios involving rotating or uncontrolled public interaction
• Any event involving minors under eighteen (18)
• Any environment involving crowds, loud noises, uncontrolled animals, food service, alcohol consumption, or unpredictable public interaction

RPM reserves sole discretion to determine whether any outing, activity, or environment is appropriate for RPM animals.

Fosters, volunteers, and staff may not:

• Allow public handling or unsupervised interaction with RPM animals in uncontrolled environments
• Transport RPM animals for non-approved appearances, visits, or activities
• Bring RPM animals to high-traffic or high-stimulation environments without prior written approval
• Allow RPM animals to remain off leash in public settings unless specifically authorized in writing by RPM leadership
• Represent or imply that RPM has approved an outing, event, or activity unless written approval has been granted by RPM leadership

These restrictions apply regardless of the animal’s apparent temperament, training level, socialization history, breed, age, or the handler’s experience.

Approved activities are limited to:

• RPM-organized events where specific animals have been invited to attend by RPM leadership in writing

Approval for one outing, event, or activity does not constitute ongoing or blanket approval for future activities.

RPM animals attending approved public activities must remain physically restrained and under the direct control of the approved handler at all times.

I understand and acknowledge that interacting with, transporting, fostering, handling, or exposing animals to public environments carries inherent risks that cannot be fully eliminated.

I voluntarily assume all risks associated with unauthorized off-site activities involving RPM animals, including but not limited to:

• Injury to myself or others
• Injury to animals
• Animal bites or scratches
• Property damage
• Animal escape or loss
• Disease transmission or exposure
• Veterinary or medical expenses
• Legal claims, lawsuits, or damages arising from unauthorized conduct

I understand that RPM cannot guarantee the behavior, temperament, reactions, or safety of any animal in unfamiliar or public environments.

To the fullest extent permitted under Texas law, I agree that RPM, its directors, officers, employees, agents, volunteers, veterinarians, contractors, foster coordinators, and affiliates shall not be liable for injuries, damages, losses, claims, expenses, or liabilities arising from unauthorized off-site activities or violations of RPM policy.

I understand that unauthorized activities fall outside the scope of approved RPM participation and may not be covered by RPM insurance policies.

Nothing in this agreement is intended to waive liability for gross negligence, willful misconduct, or claims that cannot legally be waived under applicable law.

To the fullest extent permitted by law, I agree to defend, indemnify, and hold harmless RPM, its directors, officers, employees, agents, volunteers, veterinarians, and affiliates from and against any claims, demands, actions, damages, liabilities, losses, judgments, costs, or expenses, including reasonable attorney’s fees, arising out of or related to:

• My violation of RPM policy
• Unauthorized off-site activities involving RPM animals
• My negligent or intentional acts or omissions
• Injuries or damages caused by animals under my care or control during unauthorized activities

Violation of this policy may result in:

• Immediate removal of animals from foster care
• Suspension or termination of volunteer or foster participation
• Restriction from future RPM involvement
• Additional corrective or disciplinary action deemed appropriate by RPM leadership

RPM reserves the right to investigate any reported violation or incident involving RPM animals.

By signing the overall RPM foster or volunteer agreement, I acknowledge that I have read, understood, and agreed to comply with this Off-Site Event and Public Exposure Policy, including all restrictions, assumptions of risk, liability limitations, indemnification obligations, and approval requirements contained herein.

4. Volunteer and Foster Expectations

Commitment

Honor volunteer shifts, transport assignments, clinic assignments, and foster commitments for which you sign up. If you are unable to fulfill your commitment, notify RPM as soon as possible so alternative arrangements can be made. There is no penalty for returning a foster pet because they are not a good fit for your home, please communicate any and all concerns with your foster coordinator to improve future matchmaking with you and your foster pet.

Training and Compliance

Complete all required training and comply with all RPM policies, procedures, protocols, and instructions. Stay informed about updates shared through email, text, staff communication, volunteer communication, foster groups, or social media groups.

Record Keeping

Maintain accurate and timely records of medications, feeding, bathroom habits, behavioral observations, medical concerns, and other requested information regarding RPM animals.

Safety

Never handle an animal that appears unsafe, stressed, aggressive, or beyond your physical ability to control. Immediately notify RPM if you feel unsafe handling any animal.

Kennel Access and Animal Handling Restrictions

For the safety of volunteers, fosters, staff, visitors, and animals, Rescued Pets Movement (“RPM”) utilizes a kennel color designation and handling restriction system. By signing this Agreement, you acknowledge and agree to comply with all posted signage, kennel markings, staff instructions, and animal handling restrictions at all times. 

Red Dot Kennels – STRICT STAFF ONLY

Animals marked with a red dot or otherwise designated “Staff Only” may not be entered, handled, walked, touched, fed, transported, removed from enclosure, or interacted with by volunteers, fosters, visitors, or members of the public unless RPM management provides explicit written authorization in advance, 

These animals may have medical, behavioral, stress-related, quarantine, safety, handling, or other concerns that require specialized training and oversight.

Unauthorized interaction with a red dot animal is strictly prohibited.

IF A DOG KENNEL DOES NOT HAVE A DOT, ASSUME THE PET(S) IS RED AND DO NOT PROCEED. 

Yellow Dot Kennels – ADVANCED HANDLING ONLY

Animals marked with a yellow dot require additional caution and handling awareness. These animals may be fearful, stressed, reactive, strong pullers, undersocialized, medically sensitive, or otherwise require experienced handling techniques.

Only approved longtime volunteers or individuals who have completed RPM-designated advanced handling training and received authorization from RPM leadership may enter yellow dot kennels or handle yellow dot animals.

Volunteers, fosters, and visitors who have not received advanced handling approval may not enter yellow dot kennels or remove these animals from their enclosure.

Staff Authority

RPM staff and management retain sole discretion regarding:

• who may handle specific animals,
• kennel access permissions,
• volunteer handling levels,
• and whether an individual may continue interacting with a particular animal.
  

All staff instructions regarding animal handling and safety must be followed immediately and without exception.

Failure to comply with kennel designation rules, handling restrictions, posted signage, or staff direction may result in immediate removal from RPM property and termination of volunteer or foster privileges.

Supervision of Foster Animals

Fosters are responsible for supervising RPM animals at all times and ensuring that foster animals are safely contained, secured, and protected.

Fosters may not authorize veterinary treatment, euthanasia, surrender, transfer, adoption, rehoming, or permanent placement of an RPM animal without RPM’s prior approval in writing. RPM maintains a 24-hour emergency medical hotline for medical emergencies, and fosters are required to contact RPM immediately for guidance before seeking veterinary care at an outside vet or making any medical decisions regarding an RPM animal.

If a foster seeks veterinary care, authorizes treatment, or incurs any medical expense without prior approval from RPM, the foster assumes full personal financial responsibility for all associated costs. RPM is not responsible for reimbursement of any unauthorized veterinary services, treatments, diagnostics, medications, or related expenses.

After-Hours Medical Emergency Procedures

RPM maintains an after-hours emergency line for urgent, life-threatening medical situations only involving RPM animals.

Emergency Line: (713) 364-3164

Hours:

• Monday–Saturday: 6:00 PM to 9:00 AM
• Sunday: 4:00 PM to 10:00 AM
  

All non-emergency matters must be directed to RPM staff during normal business hours.

Examples of medical emergencies include:

• Continuous or repeated vomiting
• Non-responsiveness or unconsciousness
• Severe injury, including trauma or suspected fractures
• Active or uncontrolled bleeding
• Difficulty breathing or choking
• Profuse bloody diarrhea
• Seizures, new or recurring
  

Non-emergencies include, but are not limited to:

• Mild or occasional vomiting
• Soft stool or non-bloody diarrhea
• Behavioral concerns
• Medication or scheduling questions
• Minor wounds, limping, or mild symptoms
• General care or foster-related questions
  

Use of the emergency line for non-emergency matters is prohibited and may result in restriction, suspension, or termination of participation.

Fosters and volunteers must not seek outside veterinary care, authorize treatment, or make medical decisions without RPM’s prior approval, except where immediate action is necessary to prevent imminent death or serious harm and RPM cannot be reached.

When in doubt, you may call. However, this line must be reserved for true emergencies.

Fosters agree to:

• Keep foster animals indoors unless supervised and contained
• Use secure fencing, crates, leashes, gates, kennels, or tethers as appropriate
• Never leave foster animals unattended in unsecured yards, vehicles, patios, garages, balconies, or outdoor areas
• Prevent contact with children, visitors, neighbors, delivery personnel, strangers, and other pets when instructed by RPM
• Follow all quarantine, isolation, decompression, feeding, medication, and behavioral instructions
• Immediately notify RPM if an animal escapes, bites, injures another animal or person, damages property, or requires emergency veterinary care
  

Fosters are required to be fully open, honest, and transparent with RPM regarding all observed behaviors, medical concerns, incidents, and changes involving RPM animals, whether positive or negative. This includes, but is not limited to, aggression, fear, resource guarding, prey drive, escaping, separation anxiety, destructive behavior, house training issues, reactivity, biting, scratching, inappropriate elimination, issues with children or other animals, medical symptoms, and any improvements or setbacks. Failure to disclose behavioral or medical concerns may place animals, people, and RPM operations at risk and may result in removal of the animal or termination of foster status.

No Right of Ownership, Possession, or Placement Authority Over RPM Animals

All RPM animals remain the sole and exclusive legal property of Rescued Pets Movement, Inc. (“RPM”) at all times.

Fosters and volunteers are granted only temporary, limited, revocable custody of RPM animals for the sole purpose of providing care on RPM’s behalf and in accordance with RPM’s instructions. This temporary custody does not create, imply, or transfer any ownership interest, possessory right, adoption right, lien, right of first refusal, right to retain, right to transfer, or right to make placement decisions regarding any RPM animal.

Fosters and volunteers acknowledge and agree that they are acting only as temporary caregivers for RPM animals. They may not claim ownership, register ownership, microchip ownership, transfer microchip registration, list themselves as owner, alter ownership records, withhold records, or represent to any person, agency, veterinarian, shelter, rescue, adopter, government entity, or third party that they own or have authority to control placement of an RPM animal.

Fosters and volunteers may not sell, give away, breed, transfer, rehome, adopt out, euthanize, abandon, surrender, board, place, relocate, or otherwise transfer possession or control of any RPM animal, whether temporarily or permanently, without RPM’s prior express written approval.

Fosters and volunteers may not allow any third party to take possession, custody, control, care, or ownership of an RPM animal without RPM’s prior express written approval. This includes, but is not limited to, family members, roommates, friends, neighbors, adopters, rescue organizations, shelters, veterinarians, boarding facilities, trainers, transporters, or any other person or organization.

RPM may request the return of any RPM animal at any time, for any reason, with or without notice. Upon request, the foster or volunteer must immediately surrender and return the animal to RPM or to another person or location designated by RPM. The animal must be returned with all RPM property, records, medications, medical instructions, supplies, identification, collars, leashes, crates, paperwork, and any other materials provided by or related to RPM.

Fosters and volunteers may not delay, refuse, conceal, relocate, hide, transfer, withhold, abandon, or otherwise interfere with RPM’s recovery of an RPM animal. Any refusal, delay, concealment, misrepresentation, unauthorized transfer, failure to respond, failure to disclose location, or failure to return an RPM animal upon request will be considered unauthorized possession and may constitute conversion, theft, unlawful detention, interference with property rights, or other civil or criminal conduct under applicable law.

RPM reserves the right to pursue all available remedies to recover any RPM animal, including but not limited to civil action, injunctive relief, damages, attorney’s fees, costs of recovery, law enforcement assistance, animal control assistance, and any other remedy available under applicable law.

Fosters and volunteers are responsible for all costs, damages, losses, liabilities, claims, attorney’s fees, recovery expenses, veterinary expenses, boarding expenses, transport expenses, staff time, and any other expenses arising from or related to unauthorized possession, failure to return, unauthorized transfer, concealment, relocation, abandonment, or interference with RPM’s ownership or control of an RPM animal.

RPM does not guarantee that any foster animal will remain in a foster home for any specific length of time, be transported to any specific partner, be placed with any specific organization, be made available for adoption, or be eligible for adoption by the foster, volunteer, household member, friend, family member, or any other person.

Fosters and volunteers acknowledge that any interest they may have in adopting an RPM animal does not create any right to retain the animal, delay return, interfere with transfer, prevent transport, or override RPM’s final placement decisions. All adoption, transfer, transport, and placement decisions are made solely by RPM.

Clinic Appointment Timeliness

Fosters and volunteers are expected to arrive on time for all RPM clinic appointments, scheduled medical visits, vaccine appointments, rechecks, drop-offs, pick-ups, and other scheduled animal care appointments.

Timely arrival is required because late arrivals can disrupt clinic workflow, delay care for other animals, reduce staff efficiency, and create unnecessary stress for animals, fosters, volunteers, and RPM staff.

If you are running late, unable to attend, or need to reschedule, you must notify RPM as soon as possible through the appropriate communication channel.

Repeated late arrivals, missed appointments, or failure to communicate scheduling issues may result in appointment restrictions, review of foster or volunteer participation, removal of the animal from the foster home, or termination of foster or volunteer status.

RPM understands that emergencies happen. However, clinic appointment times must be respected so RPM can safely and efficiently care for all animals in its program.

Household Approval

Fosters and volunteers certify that all members of the household, including but not limited to spouses, partners, roommates, landlords, property owners, homeowners’ associations, apartment management, and other residents, are aware of and approve of the foster animal(s) being present in the home, apartment, townhome, condo, or other residence.

Fosters and volunteers further acknowledge that they are solely responsible for obtaining any required permission, approval, or consent before bringing a foster animal into the home. RPM is not responsible for any disputes, lease violations, eviction proceedings, fines, property damage, injuries, complaints, HOA violations, insurance issues, or other consequences arising from a foster or volunteer failing to obtain proper approval or consent from household members, landlords, property owners, or other applicable parties.

Fosters and volunteers agree to indemnify and hold harmless RPM from any claims, damages, liabilities, costs, or expenses arising from or related to the presence of a foster animal in their home without proper approval or authorization.

Resident Pets

Fosters and volunteers certifies that any resident pets are current on all vaccines, are healthy enough to safely interact with foster animals, and do not pose a risk to RPM animals.

5. Communication and Public Conduct

Transparency

Communicate openly, honestly, and respectfully with RPM team members. Concerns, complaints, suggestions, or issues should be directed to RPM management rather than discussed publicly. RPM Management includes:

• Megan, Clinic Manager: Megan@RescuedPetsMovement.org, Contact Megan for all matters related to day-to-day clinic operations, Animal Care Technician (ACT) staff issues or concerns, medical workflow, or facility needs within the clinic.
  
• Laura, Director of Rescue, Foster, and Transport Operations: LauraB@RescuedPetsMovement.org, Contact Laura if your concern involves transport logistics or scheduling, receiving rescue partners, local shelter partners, foster program issues (dogs or cats), foster coordinator performance or communication, and foster medical concerns.
  
• Lisa, Director of Development: Lisa@RescuedPetsMovement.org, Contact Lisa for issues involving fundraising, volunteer program concerns, public relations, or media inquiries.
  
• Shelby, Executive Director: Shelby@RescuedPetsMovement.org, Contact Shelby for policy-level questions, records and finances related items, supervisor/manager concerns, and organizational-level issues not resolved through Megan, Laura, or Lisa.
  

Please email info@rescuedpetsmovement.org if you’re unsure who to reach out to.

Concerns should not be raised outside of the organization or on social media. RPM welcomes constructive collaboration, which requires direct, appropriate communication between all parties.

Communication Regarding Animal History or Prior Ownership

Fosters and volunteers may not contact any individual, member of the public, prior owner, or third party regarding the identity, history, or potential ownership of any RPM animal.

If you believe an animal may have a prior owner or public connection, you must immediately report this information to an RPM staff member.

This restriction applies to all forms of communication, including:

• Direct contact, including phone, text, email, or in person communication
• Social media outreach
• Indirect communication through third parties
  

Unauthorized communication may:

• Interfere with investigations
• Violate confidentiality
• Create legal risk
• Disrupt operations
  

RPM will handle all decisions regarding ownership and communication.

Violation may result in removal from participation.

Social Media

Represent RPM positively on social media. Do not post confidential information, internal issues, medical information, rescue partner information, donor information, staff information, foster locations, or any content that could damage RPM’s reputation.

Do not make public accusations, complaints, or negative comments regarding RPM staff, volunteers, fosters, rescue partners, donors, or operations. Concerns should be brought directly to RPM leadership.

Internal Conduct on Public Platforms

Fosters, volunteers, and affiliated individuals must represent RPM in a respectful and professional manner on public platforms.

You may not post critical, corrective, or unsolicited feedback on RPM’s public social media pages, including but not limited to comments regarding:

• Operations, workflows, or decision-making
• Fundraising efforts or resource use
• Equipment, animal care, or transport practices
• Messaging, tone, or public communications
  

Public commentary from internal members that questions or challenges RPM decisions is prohibited.

All feedback must be directed through internal channels to RPM leadership.

Violation of this policy may result in removal of content, restriction from communication platforms, suspension, or termination of participation.

Public Representation

Volunteers and fosters may not represent themselves as speaking on behalf of RPM unless specifically authorized in writing.

Volunteers and fosters may not contact media, reporters, government officials, city council members, county commissioners, regulators, partner shelters, rescue partners, donors, sponsors, or attorneys on behalf of RPM without prior written approval.

Photography and Media Release

I understand and agree that RPM may photograph, record, or videotape me while volunteering, fostering, attending events, or participating in RPM activities.

I grant RPM permission to use my name, likeness, image, voice, photographs, and recordings for fundraising, marketing, social media, educational, promotional, press, website, newsletter, and other RPM-related purposes without compensation.

Use of RPM Information

RPM information, including donor information, foster information, rescue partner information, contact lists, medical information, transport information, and internal records, may not be copied, retained, shared, or used for personal, business, political, rescue, or competitive purposes.

Communication with Receiving Partners

Fosters and volunteers may not directly contact receiving rescue partners, adopters, or other placement organizations for updates regarding a former foster animal unless specifically authorized by RPM. If one of these entities contacts you, that is perfectly fine. RPM encourages fosters to follow receiving partners on social media and adoption websites for general updates and happy endings, but direct outreach to partners regarding a former foster pet is not permitted. Our partner organizations are overwhelmed and understaffed, just like we are. Contacting them for updates means they have less time to focus on saving the lives of pets who are still at risk of euthanasia. Please do not put lives at risk! Thousands of pets are counting on RPM, our partner organizations, and YOU to focus on what matters most, the pets who are still in need. If you have questions or are unsure whether communication is appropriate, please contact your foster coordinator for guidance.

6. Conflict Resolution

Professional Conduct and Communication Expectations

All fosters, volunteers, and staff must communicate with one another in a respectful, professional, and constructive manner.

You are expected to:

• Treat all individuals with respect and courtesy
• Use appropriate tone in all communication
• Communicate concerns calmly and constructively
• Assume good intent
  

Concerns regarding RPM decisions must be directed to RPM leadership.

Fosters and volunteers may not direct complaints or disputes to frontline staff who are not responsible for decision-making.

Unprofessional, confrontational, or repeated negative communication is not permitted.

Violation may result in restriction from communication platforms, suspension, or termination of participation.

Dispute Handling

Conflicts or disagreements with staff, volunteers, fosters, rescue partners, shelter partners, or others associated with RPM must be handled respectfully and professionally.

Grievance Reporting

Report unethical behavior, misconduct, safety concerns, harassment, discrimination, animal welfare concerns, or policy violations to RPM leadership immediately.

7. Ethical Expectations

No Discrimination or Harassment

RPM maintains an environment free from discrimination, harassment, retaliation, abuse, bullying, threats, intimidation, or inappropriate conduct based on race, color, religion, sex, gender, age, disability, national origin, sexual orientation, or any other legally protected status.

Integrity

Volunteers and fosters may not engage in dishonesty, fraud, theft, misrepresentation, falsification of records, misuse of funds, unauthorized fundraising, or any conduct that harms RPM or its mission.

8. Health and Safety

Personal Safety

Volunteers and fosters agree to follow all RPM safety rules, use PPE when required, and comply with all instructions regarding animal handling, sanitation, transport, cleaning chemicals, veterinary procedures, disease prevention, and emergency response.

Emergency Procedures

Volunteers and fosters agree to familiarize themselves with RPM emergency procedures and contacts and to respond appropriately during emergencies involving animals, people, facilities, or vehicles.

Vehicle and Transport Safety

Any volunteer or foster transporting RPM animals agrees to:

• Maintain a valid driver’s license and legally required insurance
• Immediately report any accident, injury, property damage, bite, escape, or incident
• Never transport animals loose inside a vehicle
• Properly secure all crates, carriers, leashes, and animals
• Never leave animals unattended in unsafe temperatures
• Not text, use a handheld phone, or engage in distracted driving while transporting RPM animals
• Follow all RPM transport instructions and safety protocol
  

Animal Control, Leash Security, and Escape Liability

At all times, RPM animals must be under direct physical control and properly secured using appropriate equipment, including but not limited to leashes, slip leads, martingale collars, harnesses, crates, or other approved containment methods. Animals may never be allowed off-leash outside of a fully secured, enclosed, and approved area. Volunteers and fosters are solely responsible for ensuring that:

• All leashes, collars, harnesses, and containment equipment are properly fitted and secured
• Animals are physically controlled at all times when outside of a secure enclosure
• Doors, gates, crates, and barriers are properly latched and secured
• Animals are not handed off to untrained, unauthorized, or unsupervised individuals
• Situations that increase risk of escape, including crowds, distractions, multiple handlers, transitions, loading/unloading, and group activities, are managed with heightened caution
  

Any instance in which an RPM animal becomes loose, escapes, slips a leash, is dropped, is improperly restrained, or is otherwise not under full physical control will be considered a serious safety violation and must be immediately reported to an RPM staff member. The individual or group responsible for the loss of control will be held fully responsible for all consequences, including but not limited to:

• Veterinary expenses related to injury, illness, or trauma sustained during or after the incident
• Emergency veterinary care, hospitalization, or follow-up treatment
• Costs associated with recovery efforts, including staff time, search efforts, equipment, and transportation
• Injury to other animals or persons
• Property damage
• Any third-party claims, legal fees, settlements, or liabilities arising from the incident
  

Financial Responsibility and Indemnification: To the fullest extent permitted under Texas law, the responsible individual(s) or organization agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Rescued Pets Movement, Inc., its officers, directors, employees, volunteers, and agents from any and all claims, damages, losses, liabilities, costs, and expenses, including attorney’s fees, arising out of or related to:

• Failure to maintain proper control of an RPM animal
• Any escape, off-leash incident, or loss of physical control
• Any resulting injury, damage, or claim involving the animal
  

Failure to maintain proper control of an RPM animal may result in:

• Immediate removal from volunteer or foster activities
• Permanent termination of volunteer or foster status
• Denial of future participation with RPM
  

Off-Site Events and Public Exposure Restrictions

RPM animals may not be taken to off-site events, public gatherings, or uncontrolled environments without prior written approval from RPM leadership, foster coordinators or other hands on staff may not grant this permission. 

This includes:

• Schools, camps, and youth programs
• Festivals, markets, or large gatherings
• Any event involving minors under 18
• Any setting with unsupervised public interaction
  

Fosters and volunteers may not:

• Allow public handling in uncontrolled environments
• Transport animals for non-approved appearances
• Expose animals to high-risk environments
  

Approved activities are limited to RPM-organized or pre-approved events.

Unauthorized activity is a direct violation of this agreement.

Any individual who violates this policy assumes full personal responsibility and liability for any resulting:

• Injury
• Property damage
• Veterinary or medical expenses
• Legal claims
  

RPM is not responsible for any outcome arising from unauthorized activity.

Violation may result in immediate removal and termination of participation.

Exceptions must be approved in writing in advance.

Physical and Mental Aptitude

I certify that I am in good physical and mental health, am capable of working independently without direct supervision, and am physically strong and able-bodied enough to safely perform volunteer or foster duties. Because the safety and well-being of RPM animals is the organization’s top priority, I further certify that I do not have any physical, mental, emotional, or medical condition that could interfere with my ability to safely care for animals, respond appropriately in emergencies, follow instructions, exercise good judgment, or otherwise perform volunteer or foster responsibilities. I further certify that I have not been advised by a qualified medical professional to avoid such activities.

Substance Use

Volunteers and fosters may not handle RPM animals, participate in transport, provide medical care, drive, or perform volunteer duties while under the influence of alcohol, illegal drugs, marijuana, impairing prescription medications, or any substance that could impair judgment, coordination, reaction time, or safe animal handling.

Weapons

Firearms, weapons, knives, or other dangerous items should not be carried, displayed, or used during volunteer activities, transport activities, or while handling RPM animals unless legally required for law enforcement or authorized security purposes.

9. Assumption of Risk

I understand that volunteering, fostering, transporting, handling animals, entering RPM facilities, participating in events, and caring for animals involve inherent risks.

I understand and acknowledge that RPM animals may come from shelters, cruelty cases, hoarding cases, abandonment situations, neglect, disaster response, stray situations, owner surrender, or other unknown backgrounds.

I understand that RPM may not know the complete behavioral history, bite history, medical history, disease exposure history, temperament, triggers, prey drive, escape tendencies, or behavioral tendencies of every animal.

I understand that animals, even those with no known history of aggression, may bite, scratch, jump, pull, escape, damage property, injure people or animals, become ill, or behave unpredictably.

I understand that risks include, but are not limited to:

• Animal bites, scratches, bruises, crushing injuries, falls, pulling injuries, sprains, strains, broken bones, and death
• Exposure to fleas, ticks, ringworm, parasites, worms, giardia, kennel cough, parvo, rabies, zoonotic diseases, animal waste, blood, saliva, urine, feces, and vomit
• Exposure to cleaning chemicals, medications, needles, sharps, disinfectants, and medical waste
• Property damage including but not limited to homes, apartments, condos, townhomes, vehicles, yards, fences, flooring, furniture, landscaping, or personal belongings
• Injury to children, visitors, guests, community members, neighbors, household members, owned pets, livestock, or other animals
• Vehicle accidents, loading and unloading injuries, transport-related injuries, dog fights, cat scratches, and animal escapes
• Emotional distress, stress, trauma, or psychological injury resulting from volunteering, animal illness, animal death, euthanasia, injury, or rescue activities
  

I voluntarily assume all risks associated with volunteering, fostering, transporting, handling animals, attending RPM activities, and participating in RPM operations.

10. Minor Volunteers

Volunteers must be at least 18 years old to volunteer with RPM per RPM’s insurance requirements.

Individuals under the age of 18 are not permitted to volunteer, participate in volunteer activities, enter animal care or staff-only areas, assist with transport, handle animals, or perform any duties on behalf of RPM.

By signing this Agreement, I certify that I am at least 18 years of age and legally authorized to enter into this Agreement.

11. Termination of Services

RPM may suspend or terminate volunteer or foster status at any time, with or without notice, for any reason, including but not limited to safety concerns, policy violations, failure to follow instructions, inactivity, misconduct, reputational concerns, confidentiality concerns, or conduct inconsistent with RPM’s mission or values.

Volunteers and fosters may voluntarily discontinue participation at any time but agree to return all RPM animals, records, supplies, medications, keys, equipment, and property immediately upon request.

The confidentiality, non-disparagement, indemnification, ownership, media release, and liability provisions of this agreement survive the end of volunteer or foster participation.

12. Release of Liability and Indemnification

PLEASE READ THIS SECTION CAREFULLY. IT AFFECTS YOUR LEGAL RIGHTS.

I certify that I am at least 18 years of age and am physically capable of safely participating in volunteer and foster activities.

I understand that I am volunteering freely and am not an employee, contractor, officer, or agent of RPM.

TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY TEXAS LAW, I RELEASE, WAIVE, HOLD HARMLESS, AND AGREE NOT TO SUE RESCUED PETS MOVEMENT, INC., ITS OFFICERS, DIRECTORS, EMPLOYEES, VOLUNTEERS, AGENTS, CONTRACTORS, PARTNERS, SUCCESSORS, AND ASSIGNS FROM ANY AND ALL CLAIMS, DEMANDS, DAMAGES, LIABILITY, LOSSES, COSTS, OR EXPENSES, INCLUDING ATTORNEY’S FEES, ARISING OUT OF OR RELATED TO MY PARTICIPATION IN RPM ACTIVITIES, INCLUDING VOLUNTEERING, FOSTERING, TRANSPORTING, HANDLING ANIMALS, ATTENDING EVENTS, ENTERING RPM PROPERTY, OR OTHERWISE PARTICIPATING IN RPM OPERATIONS.

THIS RELEASE INCLUDES CLAIMS ARISING FROM THE ORDINARY NEGLIGENCE OF RPM OR ITS OFFICERS, DIRECTORS, EMPLOYEES, VOLUNTEERS, AGENTS, CONTRACTORS, OR REPRESENTATIVES, TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW.

I further agree to defend, indemnify, and hold harmless Rescued Pets Movement from any claims, demands, lawsuits, injuries, damages, losses, attorney’s fees, or liabilities arising from:

• My actions or omissions
• My failure to follow RPM instructions or policies
• Injuries or damages caused by RPM animals while in my custody or care
• Injuries to me, my family members, guests, visitors, household members, pets, or others
• Property damage caused by RPM animals while in my custody or care
• Claims brought by third parties arising out of my volunteer or foster activities
  

I understand that RPM is not responsible for my medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, veterinary bills, homeowner claims, renter claims, automobile claims, or any other expenses resulting from my participation.

I understand that I am responsible for maintaining my own health insurance, homeowners insurance, renters insurance, automobile insurance, pet insurance, and any other applicable coverage.

I understand that RPM may, but is not obligated to, seek or arrange emergency medical treatment for me if RPM believes such treatment is necessary. I further understand that RPM has no duty or obligation to provide, arrange, or seek emergency medical treatment on my behalf. I understand that RPM is not responsible for the cost of any such treatment, transportation, ambulance services, or related expenses.

13. Governing Law

This agreement shall be governed by and interpreted under the laws of the State of Texas.

Any legal dispute arising out of this agreement or participation with RPM shall be brought exclusively in Harris County, Texas.

If any provision of this agreement is found unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect.

Thank you for your dedication and commitment to improving the lives of homeless animals. Together, we can make a difference for countless pets in need!

14. Required Acknowledgements, Check Yes on Each

May 24, 2026