Shelters must have a clearly defined organizational structure that outlines accountability, responsibility, and authority for management decisions. This organizational structure must be communicated to all staff and volunteers.

Lines of authority, responsibility, and supervision should be in writing, reviewed periodically, and updated when roles change. Decision-making must take into account:

  1. Resource allocation.
  2. Population and individual animal health and welfare.

Authority and responsibility for tasks and decision-making must be given only to those who have the appropriate knowledge, training, and when applicable, credentials. For example:

Shelter Personnel

Resource-based decisions (e.g. to treat or to euthanize an individual animal).

Veterinarian

Medical treatment decisions (e.g. which drug to treat with).