Raccoon River Dog Park Ambassador Program

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The West Des Moines Parks & Recreation Department is implementing a volunteer-led ambassador program at Raccoon River Dog Park (2500 Grand Avenue) to help establish a positive and friendly dog park culture. The Raccoon River Dog Park Ambassador program will build relationships between dog park visitors and the City of West Des Moines and will be an integral piece in dog park public relations.

Ambassador Expectations:

Commit to monitoring the Raccoon River Dog Park 12-15 hours per quarter. (48-60 hours per year)
Know all dog park rules.
Facilitate a fun and enjoyable environment for dog park users.
Educate and inform dog park users, and call authorities if or when needed.
Ensure all dog park users are aware that a yearly permit or day pass is required to use the dog park facility.
Be visible. Wear a vest/lanyard/t-shirt while in the dog park. Designated items will be provided by the Parks and Recreation Department.
Follow and enforce all rules including, but not limited to:
- No children under the age of 10 are allowed in the dog park.
- All owners must clean up after their dogs.
- All dogs shall always be under visual contact and voice control of the handler/owner.
- No drugs or alcohol use are allowed in the dog park.

Ambassador's Role:

Welcome visitors and chat with dog owners about park safety and etiquette.
Keep the park clean and tidy.
- Hand out waste bags and acknowledge those who use them.
- Fill dog waste bag dispensers if needed.
- Pick up waste and trash in the park.
Help educate the public.
- Explain red flags of dog body language.
- Hand out brochures about buying either a day pass or annual dog park permit.
Submit volunteer hours each month.
Log problems and complaints, including names of pets/owners.
If conflicts arise, determine when to contact the WDM Police Department.

Training:

Attend a mandatory orientation meeting that covers topics such as dog body language, park regulations, and owner etiquette.
Meet with Parks and Recreation Department staff to review responsibilities.
Attend the yearly check-in and rules meeting.

Benefits:

For volunteering 48-60 hours per year, the Raccoon River Dog Park Ambassador will receive a free annual Dog Park Permit for the next calendar year. (Ambassadors who are WDM residents will need to purchase their own pet license.)
The Raccoon River Dog Park continues to improve.
Ambassadors get to meet new people and set a good example for others.