On-site Volunteering Guide
About us
Ivy Dene Rabbit Rescue is a registered charity that exists to rescue and rehabilitate rabbits in need. We operate from the main site in Tong and also have rabbits in foster homes across Yorkshire. The charity was founded by Beth Hinds who is also the manager, Joanna Dodd is assistant manager.
The Rescue Site
HQ operates from Beth and her partner Rob’s home. On site volunteering will be largely focused in the stables, yard area and the double garage. You may use the toilet which is in the house but ask that you do not enter the house for any other reason. Please closely follow any parking instructions given.
There are various animals on site. There are a group of half wild rabbits who have their own enclosure and other sanctuary rabbits with complex needs. There are also rabbits waiting for their forever home under the rescue and rabbits staying with us as part of our boarding service. Each rabbit has different needs, please follow any specific instructions related to them.
There are ‘pet’ sheep on site belonging to Beth and Rob. Please do not enter their field. There may be foster guinea pigs on site who are not under the care of the rescue and are fostered on behalf of a different charity. There are two strictly indoor cats living in the house, they are complicated... please do not interact with them in any way (even through the window!) and be very careful if entering and leaving the house that they do not escape.
The address is Raikes Hall, Raikes Lane, BD4 0RL.
Please do not park in our neighbours car park or walk on their property. This is marked by the red crosses. The green tick shows the drive to the house and rescue area. If the gates are closed, please use the intercom. Feel free to drive down the drive. On busy days we may advise alternative parking.
Rules
Please do not enter the half wild enclosure unless instructed. Please do not enter the sheep field. Other than the ground floor toilet, which you will be shown on your first visit, the house is off limits.
Be careful to close all pens behind you. The stables and garage should only be open if a person is present to keep an eye out for predators or escape artists.
Please do not consume non-vegan products on site. Snacks and drinks will be provided but feel free to bring more vegan food if you would like.
If you can’t attend your volunteer session please let us know as soon as possible.
We deal with some sensitive and confidential situations and there may be times we ask you not to share certain information on social media.
Please never disclose the location of the charity, this is a home and we want to avoid people turning up unannounced or animals being dumped on the doorstep.
Please inform a member of the team if any personal need or medical conditions change from those submitted on the original form.
Tasks
Tasks vary greatly depending on what you are specifically volunteering for. Induction/training will be given for all tasks. Please do not to attempt to carry out a task where you feel you do not have confidence or sufficient training.
Emergencies
Please be aware of certain veterinary emergencies which need to be escalated for immediate treatment. For example: not eating, new onset head tilt, falling over, sneezing or runny nose, mouth breathing, shaking, limping, bleeding or injuries. If you identify these or have any other immediate concerns about a rabbit, please let Beth or Joanna know or contact:
Beth: 07849027074
Joanna: 07802424773
Rob: 07824771156
Holly House Vets: 0113 236 9030
No question is silly, please always ask if you are unsure about anything.
Thank you so much for volunteering, you are helping us help rabbits in need and it is so appreciated.