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Post by msplatypus on Sept 17, 2020 19:28:20 GMT -5
I learned today that the only ferret rescue in the Saint Louis, MO area has shut down. The closest rescue is about 5+ hours away. This leaves a massive void in ferrets needing homes in the area. Whenever I have to go to Petco ferrets are there, and as many of us experienced ferret owners know, they often get bought on a whim, but its hard to imagine they all have happily ever afters.
My question is, does anyone know what it takes to start up a ferret rescue? MY heart breaks knowing there's not really a no kill option in my area and I just want to know what it takes to start up a sanctuary for the little ones needing home. Information, someone who has started up a 501(c)(3), or any information could help. My father has limited experience and mentioned a lawyer may also be helpful so if anyone knows about this process and is willing to speak with me, I just want to know what I can do to help.
Edit: Admin - if there is a better place to post this please move it to the correct area. I just want my message to be heard.
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Post by PatienceTheVirtue on Sept 18, 2020 8:42:12 GMT -5
Living the dream! I've wanted to start an animal rescue since I was a child. I haven't done the groundwork research as of yet, so I can't speak personally - but I can definitely supply resources. Links to follow: resources.bestfriends.org/article/how-start-rescue-or-other-animal-nonprofit - This one is a little more in-depth and provides step by step what you should look into. I'd start here for the real nitty gritty stuff. www.jotform.com/how-to-start-an-animal-rescue/ This one is a simpler version, but I think that it brings up some important things the other link may lack. For example, it highlights differences between an animal shelter and an animal rescue. It may have better information but I'm just skimming the resources for now to save on time. www.thebalancecareers.com/how-to-start-an-animal-rescue-125533 This one also has some more of the serious stuff, such as legal considerations and what to do with insurances. It mentions some "extras" that are useful, such as animal CPR knowledge. howtostartanllc.com/business-ideas/animal-rescue A resource pointing you to further resources, focusing on the business side of things again startupjungle.com/start-animal-rescue-business/ And this one talks a bit about how much space and money you should have, and things like that. It doesn't seem ferret-specific but species might not matter much for the suggestions, I'm not sure. Good luck!
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Post by unclejoe on Sept 24, 2020 10:16:55 GMT -5
I hope it works out. Try reaching out to Dona at Broward Ferret Rescue in south Florida. Wanda runs Ferrets Addicts Anonymous near Nashville, TN. Both are great ferret rescue moms.
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Post by msplatypus on Sept 28, 2020 22:02:14 GMT -5
PatienceTheVirtue unclejoe Thank you both for reaching out. I'll look into the research and contact given. In the meantime I spoke with a family member who has experience with a 501(3)(c) and was told to "have a lawyer". I'm looking into trying to find someone in my area. Additionally, I've been volunteering (for a couple years now) for a fairly large 501(c)(3) that offers spay/neuter and wellness offerings for cats and dogs in my area. I'm going to try and meet with with contacts there to see if I can get some general advice. Or if I'm extremely lucky, make ferrets a part of their offering. Wishful thinking, though!
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