Manager Information

Manager Traits

The manager should be, preferably, someone with an interest in team management but also an eye for medicine. They should be:

The manager’s primary responsibility is to ensure the success and survival of the Parvo ICU Program.

These (this page and the pages below it in the hierarchy) are guidelines that have worked for some managers in the past. Do what is best for you and don't be afraid to adjust when things aren’t working ideally.

History

2010 - The Parvo ICU Program at Austin Pets Alive! obtained a facility and developed a team.

2012 - The manager position became part-time paid position.

2016 - We halved the dose of Enrofloxacin antibiotic to afford Cerenia.

2016 - We began force feeding as standard protocol.

Quality of Care in Shelter Environment

It should be noted that the quality of care provided in a low-cost program dedicated to treating and saving the maximum number of lives within its given budget cannot match the gold standards within the veterinary field. For example, the program may not be able to provide blood transfusions. However, an extremely high save rate (80-90%) can still be achieved, often similar to or exceeding that of a private practice veterinary clinic. It is important to convey this to volunteers and especially those with medical backgrounds.

Staying Organized

Google Documents is a wonderful resource to keep all documentation and resources including email templates, scheduling information, project plans, contact lists, etc.

Email Templates will be a huge time-saver. Have set templates for any emails that will be sent regularly - recruiting, Information prior to Day 1-6 of training

Self Care

The Parvo Manager position, whether volunteer or staff, can be a very demanding job with lives on the line if duties of proper training and scheduling aren’t fulfilled. Burn-out is a common result of the veterinary field and this position in particular. Patients will be in the hospital effectively 24/7, so it is important to be able to separate work from home-life. It's easy to fall into the trap of feeling like you’re on-call 24-7; try to minimize this feeling by utilizing your volunteers well and understanding that the medical clinic staff is always there as backup for you as well.