Dog Tales Rescue and Sanctuary

Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities - Accessibility Plan

Overview

Accessibility Plan for B&D Love Inc., operating as Dog Tales Rescue and Sanctuary, in

accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). This plan outlines

the strategies and actions the organization will take to identify, prevent, and remove barriers for people with disabilities.

Accessibility Plan (AODA Compliance)

Organization Name: B&D Love Inc., o/a Dog Tales Rescue and Sanctuary

Plan Period: 2025–2030

Last Updated: April 18, 2025

1. Statement of Commitment

Dog Tales Rescue and Sanctuary is committed to ensuring equal access and participation for people with disabilities. We are dedicated to treating all individuals in a way that allows them to maintain their dignity and independence. We believe in integration and are committed to meeting the needs of people with disabilities in a timely manner by preventing and removing barriers.

2. Customer Service Standard

Goal:

Ensure accessible customer service for all clients and visitors.

Actions:

• Provide accessible formats and communication supports upon request.

• Train staff and volunteers on how to interact and communicate with people with various types of disabilities.

• Ensure that service animals and support persons are welcome at the facility.

• Develop a feedback process that is accessible to people with disabilities.

3. Information and Communications Standard

Goal:

Make information accessible to everyone, including people with disabilities.

Actions:

• Review all public-facing documents and ensure availability in accessible formats (e.g., large print, screen-reader compatible PDFs).

• Ensure the website and social media platforms conform to WCAG 2.1 Level AA standards.

• Implement accessible communication methods for adoption and volunteer inquiries.

Timeline: Full compliance by end of 2025

Responsible Party: Communications/IT Coordinator

4. Employment Standard

Goal:

Provide an inclusive and accessible work environment for employees with disabilities.

Actions:

• Notify employees and the public of the availability of accommodation during the recruitment process.

• Provide individualized accommodation plans and return-to-work processes.

• Ensure performance management, career development, and redeployment consider accessibility needs.

Timeline: Ongoing with annual review

Responsible Party: Director

5. Design of Public Spaces Standard

Goal:

Ensure that public spaces at the sanctuary are accessible.

Actions:

• Make pathways, entrances, and public washrooms accessible (e.g., ramps, clear signage, tactile indicators).

• Provide accessible parking spots near the entrance.

• Ensure emergency response information is available in accessible formats.

• Incorporate accessible design principles in all new builds or renovations.

Timeline: By 2028 (new spaces)

Responsible Party: Director

6. Training

Goal:

Train staff and volunteers on AODA standards and the Human Rights Code as it pertains to people with disabilities.

Actions:

• Deliver mandatory accessibility training to all employees, volunteers, and contractors.

• Maintain records of completed training.

• Update training modules annually or when standards change.

Timeline: Immediate and ongoing

Responsible Party: HR/Training Coordinator

7. Feedback and Continuous Improvement

Goal:

Establish a system to receive and respond to feedback about accessibility.

Actions:

• Implement a feedback mechanism (email, phone, in-person, or anonymous form).

• Ensure the feedback process is accessible.

• Review feedback monthly and take corrective action as necessary.

Timeline: Ongoing

Responsible Party: Admin/Customer Service

8. Review and Updates

• This plan will be reviewed and updated at least once every five years, or as required to remain compliant with the AODA.

• Next Scheduled Review April 2026