This is a work-from-home volunteer position, with as little as one 4 hour shift a week (or more if interested!). Shifts are typically 4-5hrs long and range between the hours of 7am and 8pm.

Training will be provided; however, applicants must possess at least one of the following: existing knowledge of Nova Scotia's wildlife, previous experience on a wildlife hotline, or experience in a wildlife rehabilitation setting.

Answer and Assess Hotline Inquiries: Answer and respond to incoming phone calls and texts in a friendly and helpful manner. Assess if an animal requires rescue or intervention. Determine whether the animal is injured, orphaned, or exhibiting normal behavior, and provide appropriate guidance to the caller. 

Caller Assistance: For callers that are willing to help, guide them through the process of safely containing or capturing animals. Provide addresses of our drop-off locations and determine the closest to their location. Express gratitude to the caller for their caring and concern, and if they appear distressed, reassure them and maintain a calm demeanor.

Collect & Post Info: If you determine that volunteer assistance with rescue or animal pick up is required, collect all necessary information from callers, including their name and contact details, the exact location, animal species, and condition. Ensure this information is accurately documented and promptly posted in the Hope for Wildlife Dispatch App for efficient coordination and response by volunteers. Advise the caller that a volunteer should reach out to them soon, and to call/text back if anything changes.

Monitor & Update Progress: Monitor the progress of active cases and post any updates to the situation in the Dispatch post. Follow up with callers as needed to ensure successful outcomes for the animals involved.

Dispatch Feed Management: Keep the dispatch feed organized by deleting resolved cases and text messages to ensure the feed remains focused on active and unresolved situations. 

Refer Callers: Direct callers to the appropriate organizations for assistance when situations fall outside the scope of Hope for Wildlife. Ex. If it involves animals that Hope for Wildlife is not permitted to rehabilitate, refer callers to DNR for assistance, or for domestic animal inquiries or cases outside of Nova Scotia, direct callers to the relevant groups.

Reporting and Communication: Report any issues or patterns in hotline calls that may indicate broader concerns, such as recurring cases in specific areas or trends in animal behaviour and participate in group chats or meetings with other dispatch team members.