Playgroups

Roles and Responsibilities

Playgroups generally require 2-3 people at minimum depending on the number of dogs and their play styles. Personnel may be paid staff or volunteers. Playgroup personnel roles include:

Lead;
Assistant;
Runner

Some responsibilities may be shared between lead, assistant, and runner, or may overlap. The lead will be the primary decision-maker. Good communication and a clear plan should be in place so that all personnel know what they are doing. Staff and volunteers should complete playgroup training before participating in playgroups.

RESPONSIBILITIES OF PLAYGROUP LEAD:

Select dogs to be included in the playgroup based on dog profiles and previous playgroup history (see Selecting Dogs for Playgroups);

Assign tasks to assistants & runners (for example, watch a particular dog closely, mind leashes that are dragging, bring a new dog from a kennel into the play area, etc);

Direct assistants’ and runners’ responses to tension between dogs, injuries or fights;

Keep dogs away from entrance to prevent dogs from clustering around a new arrival;
Monitor new dogs added to the playgroup;
Narrate body language & model interventions for any trainees;
Record data & share with relevant staff.

RESPONSIBILITIES OF PLAYGROUP ASSISTANTS:

Monitor all dogs and alert lead to problems;
Manage/wrangle any lines or leashes dragging;
Keep dogs away from entrance to prevent dogs from clustering around a new arrival;
Assist as directed with reducing tension between dogs and breaking up fights;
Carry out any other tasks assigned by the playgroup lead.

RESPONSIBILITIES OF PLAYGROUP RUNNERS:

Prepare playgroup space and gear;
Bring/take dogs to/from play area;
Refill water dishes/buckets;
Bring needed supplies like treats or clean leashes;
Assist with cleaning yards between playgroups;
Get more help if needed during fights or other incidents.