Instructions
Plan the Rescue
Decide what types or breeds of animals you want to start a rescue for. Use your own experience and survey other area shelters, local authorities and community members to find out which animals have overpopulation issues in the area.
Create a mental picture of what your animal rescue will look like and how it will operate. Having a clear vision will help in making it a reality. Take notes on your ideas as a reference.
Become an expert on each species and breed of animal you plan to work with, as well as what type of environment and care will be required. Visit shelters that are similar to your ideal rescue. Ask to volunteer at the shelters, trying each role to gain the best sense of what to expect.
Find out what rules and regulations your local, state and the federal government have for operating an animal rescue, including building codes and zoning, animal care laws, non-profit organization regulations and guidelines for paid employees versus volunteer support.
Form the Rescue
Choose a name and mission statement for your rescue. Include in your plan a budget, a list of needed supplies, key contact information, and a detailed checklist for starting the rescue. Store electronically as a back-up and in print form to easily take with you when needed.
Choose a location for your rescue. Consult your financial institution if need be, fill out and submit any necessary permits or other paperwork and finalize the date you plan to have your rescue ready for business.
Start assembling your team. Key roles include administrative and accounting personnel, public relations person, adoption specialist, human officer (for larger rescues), medical staff, animal care staff and volunteers. Develop a staff training process, as well as a handbook of responsibilities and procedures for each position.
Begin soliciting funds and supply donations. Organize fund-raising events, send out donation requests, contact potential business donors or advertise in local media outlets or on the Internet.
Operate the Rescue
Prepare and organize your location and purchase additional supplies and equipment. Determine your rescue's hours of operation and create a detailed schedule for animal care, adoptions and surrenders, and administrative tasks.
Start training your team. Make sure every team member, even those who may not handle the animals directly, is thoroughly educated on how to care for the animals. If possible, find animals to practice with, such as your own pets.
Draft your adoption policy, including fees and potential adopter screening process. Remember your primary goal should be to find each animal the best home possible, so do not be afraid to include rules such as home visits or reference checks in your adoption policy. Also, draft a policy for accepting animals into your rescue. Many shelters require detailed backgrounds on animals and surrender fees to help offset care costs.
Put the word out that you are open for business and begin accepting animals into your rescue. Create a website with photographs of adoptable animals, information on your shelter and resources for new pet owners.
How to Start an Animal Rescue League
According to the ASPCA, an estimated 70 million stray animals exist in the United States. Starting your own rescue league is a challenging yet rewarding way to help these animals find good homes. Before you decide to start a rescue league though, it is important to know what you will need to do and to have a clear understanding of what to expect.