| The DPCA Rescue Committee is not a policing agency nor does the
DPCA Rescue committee have any jurisdiction over individual rescues. However, we
occasionally receive complaints about specific rescues, and those complaints must be responded to. We use the
DRCOE (Doberman Rescue Code of Ethics)
to determine whether to refer complaints to the DPCA Board of Directors for
further action. When a complaint is referred, it is always our goal to
provide a remedial rather than punitive resolution (we prefer to solve a
problem, rather than cut off assistance). A procedure for dealing with
complaints has been developed by the committee that includes, among other
things:
-determining whether the rescuer is a signatory of the DRCOE approved by
DPCA
-investigating the complaint, and determining if there is a basis for a
recommendation to the Board. Information must come firsthand and in
writing.
-if such a basis is found, preparing a charge sheet and sending it both
to the complainant and the rescuer whose behavior is in question. The
rescuer is asked to respond to the charges within 10 working days.
A rescuer can ignore the charges, agree with the charges, or contest the
allegations. Ignoring the charges is considered the equivalent of a "no
contest" response. If a rescuer agrees with the charges, DPCA Rescue will prepare a
remediation/response plan to correct the problem. If a rescuer contests the charges,
DPCA Rescue will review the rescuers' response and determine whether the
allegations have merit.
After following this process, DPCA Rescue will submit their recommendations to the
DPCA Board for action/approval/modification. The Board is provided with the
information that has been developed by the DPCA Rescue committee. If punitive
action is requested, and if the Board concurs, removal from the DPCA Rescue directory and/or suspension of the rescuers' ability to apply for
DPCA Rescue funds
will occur.
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