How to Start a Chihuahua Puppy Rescue
Animal shelters call it the Tinkerbelle effect. It is the surge in homeless Chihuahuas that happened when Tinkerbelle, Paris Hilton's Chihuahua, strolled the red carpet. Sadly, instead of finding out about the temperament of the little dogs, many people just bought one. Animal shelters report that they are receiving more Chihuahuas than any other breed. Chihuahua rescue groups are needed to find adopters for the dogs and puppies in shelters.
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Instructions
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Volunteer for a local rescue group or shelter. Spend time learning how other organizations operate. Animal rescue groups, shelters and humane societies need help. Volunteer to foster puppies. Follow the process through adoption; it will give you a good idea of whether you want to concentrate on puppies.
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Contact your township or city clerk. Find out if there are limits on the number of dogs you can house. Are there special requirements for kennel licenses that you must have before you can begin to operate a rescue? Get copies of applicable ordinances and comply with them.
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Meet with an attorney and an accountant. The attorney can explain the requirements for incorporation as a non-profit in your state. He can file the necessary incorporation paperwork and can handle registering with the I.R.S. to get an E.I.N. (employer’s identification number). The accountant can set up your books and explain when you need to file tax forms and pay taxes.
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Make an appointment with your veterinarian. Ask whether your veterinarian will support your rescue by giving a discount for services. Discuss care issues such as when should puppies be wormed, what vaccinations do puppies need and what is the schedule for vaccinations. Vaccination protocol should be discussed, at what age should the puppies be vaccinated and with what vaccines. Find out whether your veterinarian performs juvenile spay/neuter surgery.
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Sign up with an online adoption service. The online services Pets911, Petsfinder, and 1-800-Save-A-Pet require a veterinarian to sponsor your membership and proper corporate paperwork. Each provides assistance; for example, you can find adoption contracts, foster agreements and other paperwork on the websites.
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Tips & Warnings
Check with the American Kennel Club (AKC). Find out if there is a recognized Chihuahua rescue group in your area. If not, is there a breeder club for your area that could help by sponsoring your efforts?
Start slowly. Burnout is common in rescue groups. Take one litter at a time and you will enjoy your experience.
Establish a good working relationship with local animal shelters. If a shelter knows that you are dependable and taking care of the puppies, they will call you when they get Chihuahua puppies in the shelter.
Do not take on more animals than you can reasonably care for. Puppies can be very expensive, especially if they get sick. As a rescue you have a responsibility to provide veterinary care for the puppies, be prepared to undertake those expenses.
