Our Code of Ethics

Because you will be working in a position of trust with vulnerable people it is essential that you: 

• respect the rights, privacy and dignity of the people you visit
  
• treat every person you meet with courtesy and consideration
• accept personal responsibility for meeting your agreed schedule of visits
• treat all information you gain during visits as confidential
• operate as a volunteer seeking no financial reward

Ground Rules 

As a member you agree to follow these rules which keep the organisation and yourself within professional boundaries. You will:

• keep your dog on a lead at all times… no choke chains or retractable leads are to be used
• visit only the homes, hospitals or other institutions assigned to you
• maintain a positive relationship with key contacts at the places you visit
• advise your contact promptly if your visit cannot be made
• wear your Canine Friends identity… scarves for dogs and badges for owners
• take only Canine Friends-approved dogs on visits
• ensure your dog is well groomed (bathed, brushed) for visits
• maintain a high standard of personal presentation yourself
• maintain contact with your Canine Friends liaison officer... letting them know if you are going away or cannot visit for any other reason
• familiarise yourself with the membership management system and the communication and information services and material it offers to members
• interact with the people you are visiting
• keep a close eye on your dog at all times to ensure that there are no signs of stress
• do not take other people with you, especially young children who may distract your attention from your dog and the person you are visiting
• summing up… one dog, one handler!