1.  Fill out and return a Hearts & Hooves Sacramento Volunteer Application. Save to your hard drive, edit and email to hhooves@yahoo.com.

   2.  Attend a volunteer training session. Training sessions are currently held on Friday evenings.  Notify us if you would like to sign up for a particular training session by contacting our volunteer coordinator at the email above. We want to be certain that everyone can be accommodated.

  3.  Check out the volunteer opportunities page. They describe the fun you'll have doing each job and any personal requirements.

   4.  After completing the training session, email us to request an assignment. We ask that you sign up 48 hours prior to an event.

The following are helpful instructions for horse handlers.

   * Don't bring treats for the horses that are working. It distracts them from their work and they may get "nippy".  We do not feed the horses from our hands.
   * Check the horses to see if any need brushed and combed. Also, make sure their hair is free of dirt and debris.
   * When you are inside:
         o Keep an eye on their tails. If they need to go to the bathroom, they will begin raising their tail slightly to let us know that it's time to get outside. Place your hand on top of their tail and tell them you understand and are hurrying as fast as possible. Also they may begin to seem restless and try to go to an outside door. Listen to them, they're nearly always right!
         o When you take a horse outside to potty, tie them to a tree or post and walk a short distance away from them. As long as they are being held, they believe they are still working.
         o Watch for any excessive 'mouthing'. They may want to chew, sometimes on fingers, sometimes on furniture, artificial plants, etc.
          o Ask residents if they would care to brush or comb the horse; have supplies with you. Assist if needed.
          o Chat with residents, answer questions, enjoy their company.
   * Most importantly:

To Volunteer Opportunities  ....