Volunteer Handbook

February 2026

Welcome

Thank you for choosing to spend your time at Winding Branch Ranch. You’re now part of a community that believes every farm animal deserves safety, dignity, and a second chance.

Since opening, we have rescued, revived, and rehomed hundreds of animals. None of this would be possible without volunteers like you.

Your time here helps animals heal, helps visitors learn, and helps our community better understand what humane, ethical, and sustainable farming looks like.

We are truly grateful you’re here.

Our Mission & Your Role

Our Mission

To rescue, revive, and rehome farm animals in need while educating communities about humane, ethical, and sustainable farming practices.

Why Volunteers Matter

Volunteers bring our mission to life every day.

You support the animals who now call the sanctuary home, help visitors feel welcome, and play a role in creating a calm, compassionate environment. Whether you’re cleaning, assisting with events, guiding guests, or offering quiet presence to an animal, your work matters.

Volunteer Training

Before beginning your role, you’ll complete a short training that covers:

Safety and basic animal handling
How to move around the sanctuary
Daily tasks and expectations
How to assist visitors

Training ensures you feel confident, supported, and prepared.

Tracking Volunteer Hours

Please record your hours using the form provided.

Volunteer hours help us secure grants, demonstrate impact, and tell our story.

If you need hours verified for school, work, or another program, we are always happy to sign required forms.

Before We Begin: A Tour of the Sanctuary

We start every volunteer orientation with a brief tour so you can understand the layout, flow, and key areas of the sanctuary. Many volunteers will arrive and park at The Outpost, so we begin there.

The Outpost

This is an additional parking and access area for volunteers and events. From here, you’ll walk down to the main sanctuary grounds.

The Gathering Tree

This is our primary gathering space and the heart of many of our education programs, orientations, meetings, and events. Volunteer days often begin and end here.

The Garage

Storage for tools, feed, equipment, and project supplies. Most repair, cleaning, and feeding tasks begin here.

The Bunkhouse

This serves as our office and administrative hub. Volunteers should only enter if invited by staff.

Volunteer Table (in front of the Bunkhouse)

Your primary check-in location. Here you’ll find:

Updates and announcements
Volunteer hour tracking book
Project tools
First Aid Kit
EpiPen (notify staff immediately if it is ever used)

This is also the best place to ask questions during your shift.

Port-o-Potties

Available for volunteers and visitors. If a light wipe-down or restock feels safe, you’re welcome to help. Otherwise, notify staff.

The Leonard Lounge for Wayward Chickens

Home to our rescued flock. Only enter with direct staff permission.

The Garden

Used for education, pollinator support, composting, and seasonal programs. Volunteers often assist with planting, weeding, and general maintenance.

Pig Pen 1

Home to one group of rescued pigs. Each pig has a unique personality and history.

Hoofstock Pasture

Houses goats, sheep, donkeys, and our cow. This is a high-traffic area where many visitors interact with animals.

Summerville Pasture

Additional grazing and enrichment space for goats and sheep. Volunteers may assist with feeding, cleaning, or visitor guidance.

Pig Pen 2

Home to a second group of pigs with different social dynamics.

Emu Habitat

Home to Chad and Carey. Emus require calm, predictable handling. Specific safety guidance will be provided before working near this enclosure.

Expectations & Guidelines

Core Rules That Keep Everyone Safe

No smoking anywhere on the property
No outside animals, including service animals
Gates must remain closed unless staff gives permission
Do not enter the residence, pool area, or fenced perimeter
Never feed animals unless instructed by staff
Walk at all times
Dispose of trash in front bins before leaving
Clean up all projects at the end of your shift
Park on the right-hand grass along the drive
Drive slowly. Maximum speed is 10 mph

These rules protect the animals, volunteers, visitors, and sanctuary operations.

Dress, Gear & Preparedness

Volunteering here can be messy, active, and outdoors.

What to Wear

Long pants
Closed-toe shoes or boots
Shirts that cover the midriff
No tank tops, shorts, ripped clothing, or dangling jewelry
Bring water, sunscreen, and weather-appropriate gear

Weather Awareness

Schedules may change due to storms or extreme heat. Safety always comes first, and you will be notified of any adjustments.

Safety, Hygiene & Emergencies

General Safety

Do not enter enclosures without permission
Wash hands after animal contact
Avoid touching your face or eating before washing
Wear gloves for cleaning tasks

Zoonotic Disease Awareness

While rare, some illnesses can transfer from animals to humans. Handwashing is the best prevention. Notify staff if an animal appears ill or behaves unusually.

First Aid & Emergency Supplies

First Aid Kit: at the volunteer table
EpiPen: at the volunteer table
Always notify staff immediately if medical supplies are used.

Emergency Contacts

Call 911 for medical or fire emergencies
Sanctuary Phone: 210-245-0393
Emergency Board Contact (if staff cannot be reached):
Tim Kessler – 323-304-4820

Closest Emergency Room
Baptist Neighborhood Hospital – Overlook
25615 US-281, San Antonio, TX
210-572-2911

Animal Behavior & Body Language

Every animal here has a story, and many come from neglect, abandonment, or unsafe environments. Always approach with patience and awareness.

Key Safety Notes

Emus can kick. Approach only with staff guidance
Cows are large and may bump or swing suddenly
Never approach horses or donkeys from behind
Pigs have strong jaws. Keep fingers clear
If an animal becomes agitated, back away slowly and alert staff

Quick Body Language Guide

Goats: playful tail wagging = happy; stiff stance = may charge
Horses: ears pinned back = danger; soft eyes = relaxed
Cows: pawing or head swinging = agitation
Chickens: puffed feathers or charging = aggression
Pigs: snapping or loud squealing = stressed
Sheep: stomping or head tossing = agitation
Emus: booming, pacing, fluffed feathers = alarm

When in doubt, ask staff.

Facilities & Restrooms

Port-o-potties and handwashing stations are available.

Please notify staff if supplies are low or service is needed.

Policies That Protect Our Community

Sexual Abuse & Harassment Policy

Winding Branch Ranch is committed to a safe, respectful environment. Harassment, abuse, or misconduct of any kind will not be tolerated and may involve law enforcement. Report concerns immediately to staff.

Background Check Policy

Volunteers working with children must complete a background check and sex offender screening. Volunteers cover the cost. This helps ensure a safe environment for everyone.

Staying Connected

Website: www.windingbranchranch.org
Facebook: @windingbranchranch
Instagram: @windingbranchranch
TikTok: @windingbranchranch

Final Thoughts

Every animal here has endured something, and every volunteer helps change their future.

Your time helps feed them, keep them healthy, educate our community, and create a place where compassion is visible and real.

Thank you for helping give these animals a safe place to heal and a chance to thrive.

Required Forms

Participation Waiver
www.windingbranchranch.org/waiver

Volunteer Handbook Agreement (after orientation)
www.windingbranchranch.org/volunteerform