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Step 1
Decide what kind of rescue you want to use. Your local Humane Society is a great place to start, though there is never a guarantee of what kinds of animals you will find there. Do you want a specific breed of a dog, cat or horse? Most animals have groups dedicated to saving abandoned and injured members of a breed. These groups have a variety of ages and medical conditions. There are even groups that specifically rescue mature animals from owners who can no longer take care of them.
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Step 2
Consider how much time and effort will be put into the animal. Every pet will need time to adjust, but rescue groups often receive animals in many stages of health. You need to decide what you can offer your new pet. Think about the costs of surgery, medicine and treatments, as well as the time and effort needed to take care of a special-needs animal.
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Step 3
Finding the perfect rescue organization is easy and can be done in many ways. Ask someone with a pet you like where they got it and if they know of any rescues. Search the Internet with keywords like the species and breed you are considering and your specific requirements. Also check ads in local or national breed magazines and newspapers.
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Step 4
Location is important. Rescue organizations often have regulations on how far a potential owner can live. Some groups only serve local prospects within a few miles, while others must live inside a particular state. Though it is rare, some groups will transport the animal long distances at your expense.
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Step 5
Follow the rules. Rescue groups are formed for the welfare of animals, and the groups require new owners to bide by their rules. This almost always requires the spaying and neutering of your animal. Some organizations also have guidelines as to the age of children and kinds of other pets to be around the new animal. You might need to provide references as to your personal and employment relationships, and you will have to agree to turn the animal over to the rescue if, for any reason, you can’t take care of her. Remember that if any of the conditions are not met, you may lose your animal.
