Start A Non-Profit Animal Rescue

It is highly advisable that you solicit the help of an attorney who understands non-profit laws. Check with your local bar to see if there are any who do pro-bono work in that area. Leaving out a step in securing licensing, tax-exemption, etc., can be a serious set back that has the potential of threatening your efforts.

Non-profit status is not the same as tax-exempt status. Federal tax exemption must be secured separately from your state's non-profit status. The process for securing either can take months, so you will need to be patient. When applying for 501(c)3 non-profit status, be sure to ask questions! You will want to know exactly what forms and procedures must be done, and these vary from state to state.

An attorney can guide you on exactly what your state will expect that you'll have in place prior to application. You may have to have a long-term budget in place, and they may require that you have a business plan of incorporation prepared. Again, the laws vary and are state specific. You should have your attorney explain any forms you will be asked to sign, as you will be responsible for any obligation within them.

While an animal shelter and an animal rescue are slightly different, it is a good idea to follow the Human Society of the United States' (HSUS) guidelines for operation. Your location must be conducive to the care and nurturing of multiple animals. You will also need a veterinarian that is willing to work with you at a reduced rate. This may be part of the requirements in your state for non-profit status. Fortunately, there are many vets who are use to working with shelters and rescues.

The most important things to understand before you contact anyone about the business details are the practical details. Running a rescue is highly rewarding, but it is extremely demanding. You will need to be a marketing whiz to bring in donations and sponsors. Even then, you'll probably have to spend your own money to keep the rescue running effectively and up to state requirements. Your spare time will no longer exist. Animals need care 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Even with a few volunteers stepping in to ease the load, you are ultimately responsible. You will see a lot of neglect and abuse, and you will need a temper than can be checked for the benefit of the animals. Starting an animal rescue is much like having a child, once you do it, you're in it for a lifetime. You will need dependable support from friends and family to get you through those days of doubt. But in the end, when your rescue is running on its own and you have the satisfaction of seeing those beautiful lives saved and loved, you may find that you have truly found your calling!