Description: This event is hosted by the Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI), Pet Week on Capitol Hill brings the power of pets to Capitol Hill, delivering the message to our elected representatives that pets are important for human health and quality of life. Pet Week features Members of Congress, industry leaders, the veterinary community, animal welfare advocates and research organizations, coming together to share information about the importance of pet ownership in America and the scientific evidence that shows how policies that strengthen the human-animal bond can improve wellbeing for both people and companion animals.
Assist with setting up and breaking down the information table. Meet and greet visitors, provide information and PCR collateral, answer questions, and provide other resources as needed. Use the PCR website to show interested individuals other dogs and cats available for adoption and how to apply on the website to adopt, donate, or volunteer. Please note: Refer questions about specific applications or a dog's status with pending applications to the adoption coordinator of the dog. This also includes referring questions about medical needs, temperament, and possible best-case scenarios. As the adoption coordinator screens candidates and helps make the best match for each dog, we appreciate volunteers referring potential adopters directly to the adoption coordinator to communicate a consistent message. Please do not give out your personal information (email addresses or phone numbers) to any potential adopters or contact them about the status of a dog. This is the role of the adoption coordinator. You are welcome to share the info posted in the dog's bio, but limit it to what is stated there. With general questions, they should email our info line at info@petconnectrescue.org, or specific questions about dogs can be directed to the adoption coordinator listed on the dog’s bio. If you have any concerns/insights about a potential adopter or dog, please email the adoption coordinator directly. Thank you!
Address:The U.S. Capitol Room HC-5: Intersection of First Street and East Capitol Street
When: 5:00-7:00 PM (one shift).
Please put the dog/cat name in the "Additional Volunteer Information" box at the bottom of the response box.
Important Event Guidelines for Fosters and Dogs
Thank You!
We are so glad you are signing up to bring your foster dog to a PetConnect Rescue event.
To keep everyone safe and ensure a positive experience for both dogs and people, we ask that all participants follow a few important safety guidelines. If anything is unclear, please don’t hesitate to ask—we’re happy to help!
Before the Event: Prepare for Safety
Collar: Your foster dog should wear a well-fitted martingale collar, which prevents dogs from being able to escape by backing out. If you don’t have one, let your Adoption Coordinator (AC) or the event leader know—we’ll bring one for you.
Leash: Use a 4- or 6-foot flat leash. Retractable leashes are not allowed.
Secure Connection: When exiting the car, double-check that the leash is clipped securely to the collar’s leash ring (not the ring that holds the ID tag, which can easily break under pressure).
At the Event: Keep Dogs Safe & Comfortable
Events can be noisy and crowded, and even the sweetest dogs may act differently in that environment. To help them stay calm and safe:
Stay focused on your dog and surroundings, especially in tighter event spaces. If you need a break, ask another adult volunteer to step in, and share any tips about your dog. Volunteers should hold only one dog at a time.
Give space between dogs—at least several feet. No nose-to-nose greetings, as these can escalate quickly.
Watch for signs of stress, and be proactive:
○ Walk your dog regularly to help them decompress.
○ Move to open areas if they’re restless.
○ Head to a quiet spot if they seem overwhelmed.
○ Remove your dog from the event if they bark excessively, growl, show signs of discomfort, or act aggressively.
Need help? Just ask! We’re here to support you.
Helping Your Foster Dog Get Adopted
Be friendly and proactive—greet visitors and introduce yourself and your foster dog.
Highlight the positives: What do you love about your foster dog? Share their story and endearing quirks.
Share challenges thoughtfully: You don’t need to list every potential concern in an initial chat. Focus on the positives first. If someone shows serious interest, you can gently mention any key considerations (like needing to be an only dog or not doing well alone for long periods).
Give them the next step: Hand out an info card and let them know they can complete the online adoption questionnaire right from their phone if they’re interested!
Thank you again for all you do. Your presence at these events helps dogs find loving homes and allows PetConnect Rescue to save more lives.
