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Step 1
Volunteer with an established rescue group in your area. There are pug rescue groups located throughout Florida. Spend at least 6 months working for an established group. Use this time to learn as many different facets of the operation as possible. Try fostering dogs, throwing a fundraiser, transporting dogs and processing adoptions. Consider if starting a new rescue is worth the time and effort or if it's better to continue working with an established rescue group.
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Step 2
Contact your city, county and homeowners association to find out if there are any limits on the number of dogs allowed in your home. Most rescue groups are home-based. Many jurisdictions in Florida limit the number of dogs allowed in a home. Contact the Florida Department of Agriculture to determine whether your rescue group needs a state license.
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Step 3
Meet with your veterinarian to discuss your plans. Ask for a discounted price list for routine services such as vaccinations, parasite control and spay or neuter surgeries. Talk with an accountant about setting up the rescue books and taxes. Consult a lawyer about establishing a nonprofit corporation. Ask about how to protect yourself from liability.
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Step 4
Join an online shelter portal. Services like Petfinder and Adopt a Pet provide free Web pages and adoptable pet profiles for rescue groups. These websites are responsible for millions of adoptions to visitors every year. Florida visitors can search by location so they can adopt pugs located near their homes.
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Step 5
Prepare a shelter information package. Shelter managers require information about the rescue groups they work with. Many pugs and pug mixes end up in Florida shelters. Rescue groups help with pugs that are older, ill or have behavior issues. Give the shelter a complete contact list and the name and phone number for a veterinarian who can be your reference.
