How to Start a Chihuahua Rescue in Ohio

By Justine Depalma

Instructions

Step 1:
Volunteer to help one of the national Chihuahua rescue groups. Rescue groups rely on volunteers to perform jobs ranging from fostering dogs, transport, processing adoption applications to fund-raising. Ohio-based volunteers help with fostering and transport of Ohio Chihuahuas found in shelters and turned in by owners. There is a lot to learn since a rescue group is actually a nonprofit business. Remember, you will not be competing with the rescue in the future, but will work together to save lives.
Step 2:
Meet with professionals. A lawyer, accountant and veterinarian will help form your rescue group. The lawyer will advise about how to form a non-profit corporation, the liability of directors, and the liability for dog bites and can even help draft adoption and foster contracts. The veterinarian will help by explaining the vaccinations needed by incoming dogs and parasite control. The vet can explain the medical issues that Chihuahuas are prone to such as bad teeth and knee caps that dislocate. Discuss the costs associated with common problems so you can properly decide the adoption fee for the rescue dogs. The accountant is an important part of the professional team who provides advice about tax issues, in particular, what taxes must the rescue group pay and when.
Step 3:
Join an online shelter portal such as www.petfinder.com. Each member receives a free web page and unlimited space to display photos, stories and even video of adoptable Chihuahuas. Newer services such as www.pets911.com and 1-800-save-a-pet.com provide similar benefits. Ohio residents that want to adopt a Chihuahua will be guided to the closest rescue. The internet is the most valuable resource for adoptions. Learn the basics of building a web page so you can advertise your rescue more effectively.
Step 4:
Prepare an information package for animal shelters. In Ohio, animal shelters can be run either by the government or charities. Get the information to managers of area shelters. Shelters will need to know what dogs you will take, such as old Chihuahuas, mixed-breed Chihuahuas, "nippy" Chihuahuas or Chihuahuas with special medical needs. Include your references, especially the veterinarian that you work with so the shelter can call and confirm. Shelters will work with a rescue that they are comfortable with so establish a good relationship early.
Step 5:
Check with your city and county clerk. Find out how many dogs you are allowed to house on your property. In Ohio, the number of animals allowed on your property or any extra insurance requirements are governed by the city, township or county where the property is located. If you plan to personally handle more dogs than allowed, find out how to get a kennel license.

Tips & Warnings

Join Best Friends Animal Society Ohio network. The Best Friends network sends alerts when animals or organizations need help.
Keep the care and health of the dogs as your major concern. Taking on more than you physically or financially can handle can lead to disaster.

Resources

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