Do extensive research on the type on animals you plan on rescuing.
Opening an animal rescue is not easy and will require a great deal of planning, legal paperwork and start up money. Once you are able to find a place to run your rescue, you will need to set realistic plans on exactly how many animals you can have based on city regulations, money and man power available to you. Regulations will mainly be set out by the county and city laws in North Carolina. A lawyer can make sure that the rescue is running smoothly based on legal regulations. Only take in the amount of animals you can afford with out going over your limit.
Instructions
Starting a Rescue
1. Getting first hand experience will help you plan out exactly how you will run the rescue.
Volunteer at a rescue or shelter to get personal experience on what it takes to actually run a rescue.
2. Start off with only planning to take in a small number of animals until your rescue becomes well established.
Plan out what kind of rescue you want to open. Include what kind of animal and breed you want to specialize in. Determine how many you can take in at a time, who will be able to provide care for them and how much time and money will you be able to provide. Be realistic on what you can physically, financially and mentally accomplish.
3. Also consider any noise buffers you may need to keep noise levels down and from disturbing any neighbors.
Find a place to operate the rescue. Take into considerate the zoning laws that can limit the amount on animals you will be allowed at a time and if you want to lease or own the property.
4. When choosing a vet ask if he will be able to offer any discounts to your rescue.
Find a veterinarian near your rescue's location that can provide low cost spay, neuter and care for your rescued pets.
5. Choose a lawyer who has experience working with rescues.
Hire a lawyer to assist you with legal aspects that might arise with the rescue including liability, contracts, business filings and other legal paperwork that might be required.
6. The Form 990 must be filled every year for at least the first three years or the nonprofit status will be revoked.
Go to the local city hall to apply for a business license. If you chose to become a non profit rather than an independent rescue then you will also need to apply for a 501(c)(3) status by filling a Form 990 with the IRS. If approved you will be granted a temporary non-profit status, and after three years, if they are satisfied with your running of the nonprofit, you will be granted a permanent nonprofit status. Your lawyer should be able to assist you with these business filings.
7. You may also need additional permits from animal control if you plan on rescuing exotic animals.
Go to the county animal control, which regulates kennel licenses, to see if you will require a kennel license for your particular situation.
8. The lawyer you hire may also be able to guide you in which types of insurance you may need.
Buy liability insurance to cover any accidents that may arise while operating your rescue. If you hire employees, you will also need to be covered by workers' compensation.
9. Your lawyer can brief you on what should be included in these types of forms.
Create release forms outlining responsibilities for adoption, volunteering and fostering.
10. Establishing memberships and newsletters can help maintain regular volunteers and supporters.
Raise funds and awareness for your rescue to help cover any necessary costs, find volunteers and attract potential adopters. Once you have the necessary start up money and legal paperwork finished, you will able to open your doors and start taking in and adopting out animals.
11. Many accountants can also help you file paperwork to get a business license, non-profit status, and file your taxes.
Hire an accountant that has experience with non-profits and rescues if you do not know properly file a business or non-profit tax forms. Most accountants can also help you file paperwork to get a business license, non-profit status, and file your taxes.
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