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Step 1
Join a local humane organization. Volunteer to foster dogs, work adoption events, process owner relinquishments and other services that you may be performing with your own rescue group. Volunteering will provide hands-on learning and networking as well as helping the humane organization.
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Step 2
Meet with an accountant and an attorney. Have them walk you through the requirements to set up a non-profit corporation. The attorney can advise you about adoption contracts, insurance and liability issues. The accountant can set up your books and make certain that you have the right tax forms.
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Step 3
Telephone the State of Missouri Department of Agriculture, your local city or township clerk and your county animal control department and ask about regulations that apply to your situation. Ask if there is a limit to the number of dogs that you can legally house. Find out if there are inspections required.
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Step 4
Visit your veterinarian and establish a relationship for your new rescue. Ask if the vet will provide discounted services for your rescue operation. Discuss health issues such as vaccinations, heartworm prevention, worming, spay and neuter surgery and infectious disease prevention.
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Step 5
Join an internet adoption service. The three largest providers are petfinder.com, pets911.com and 1-800-save-a-pet.com. Each provides free space on their service to post pictures and descriptions of the adoptable pets in your rescue group.
