How to Start a Dog Rescue Business

Millions of dogs are euthanized every year due to being abandoned and neglected. This fact has motivated people across the country to start dog rescue businesses.

Things You'll Need

  • Property/land for business with proper zoning requirements
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Instructions

    • 1

      Volunteer at other dog rescues in the community to determine what works and what doesn̵7;t work.

    • 2

      Meet with directors of other rescue organizations for advice for that particular community and market.

    • 3

      Determine if you want to have a breed-specific rescue or a mixed-breed rescue. Determine also any weight/size and quantity requirements you have if the rescue operation will be out of your home.

    • 4

      Network with veterinarians, animal control, Animal Control Officers (ACOs), the fire department and any other local government agency near you that may be able to help during the process.

    • 5

      Determine if you want to run a rescue out of your home or if you intend to set up in a separate property. If you decide on a separate property, you will need to begin to scope out proper buildings and learn about zoning and air-quality regulations (due to fecal matter.) Many cities and counties have strict regulations regarding dog kennels, boarding facilities and shelters being too near residential areas.

    • 6

      Get an attorney. She will help you determine what legal procedures you will need to follow to set up your operation.

    • 7

      Fill out legal paperwork; get incorporated by the state, which includes bylaws, conflict of interest and policies.

    • 8

      Get inspected by the Department of Agriculture to qualify for a rescue license.

    • 9

      Register with the Internet Revenue Service for a 501(c)3. By filling out this application you will declare your rescue organization a tax-exempt entity.

    • 10

      Apply for grants or donations to get into a physical building; many times property owners will donate space or lease it for an inexpensive amount as a way to support the cause.

    • 11

      Network to vendors such as carpenters, plumbers, electricians and other shelters to help with the interior of the new shelter, if you have decided to have the dog rescue in a building. Network for advice and consultation as to what will work best in the space you have, and to negotiate their services at reduced or no cost.