Instructions
Volunteer at an existing equine rescue or assist others who are rehabilitating abandoned, abused or neglected horses. Experience with daily operations and challenges will help determine whether the time commitment is reasonable, and will expose potential rescue founders to the emotional commitment.
Narrow the focus. The most cohesive organizations do not attempt to save them all, but specialize in rescuing a particular type of horse or horses in certain predicaments. For example, a group may rescue a breed that members have experience with, investigate cruelty, or retrain horses no longer suitable for the racing industry.
Assess the real estate available. Check local regulations. There may be deed restrictions limiting the number of horses legally housed on the property. Inspect barns, shelters and fences for safety.
Take an honest inventory of personal experience in both management and animal husbandry. If skills are deficient, take courses or recruit others who possess the attributes. Budget for hiring experts, such as veterinarians, blacksmiths and trainers. Many organizations falter when members have business savvy but lack practical experience and vice versa.
Write a business plan and mission statement. Even if the cause is not for profit, a clear plan highlighting the goals and available resources will maintain the organization's focus.
Investigate federal and local rules and regulations for setting up a charity. Consult the Internal Revenue Service website as well as state government offices.
Formulate a funding plan. Determine the amount of money needed to care for the projected number of horses, including emergency medical expenses. Popular fundraisers include insisting upon a donation from individuals surrendering horses, internet campaigns, grant writing donation boxes at feed stores and special events.
Make the final decision on whether starting a new rescue organization is sound. If so, register for a Tax ID number and, if applicable in your state, 501(3)c nonprofit status. Donations may not be openly solicited without a license in most states.
Whether you have determined the best course of action was to form a new organization or to serve as a foster home, welcome the first beneficiary of your new expertise: an abused, abandoned or elderly horse.
How to Start a Horse Rescue Business
A successful horse rescue is not a profit generating business, but a charitable cause. When considering founding a horse rescue, there are many financial and practical considerations. Unlike a rescue for small mammals, a large amount of space is needed. Most critical is the focus and the mission of the group. By following these steps, the feasibility of starting a rescue can be assessed.