Qualities of a Good Rescue Group

Some things to look for in a good rescue, adapted from PMU Rescue:

Professionalism

• 501(c)3 status (While this isn't a requirement, 501(c)3 organizations are held closely accountable for where their money comes from and where it goes.)
• Clear rescue mission and plan of action to meet mission objective
• Provides references from prior adopters and associates
• Collaborates and networks with other rescue organizations
• History of success
• Able to provide references from prior adopters and associates

Procedures

• Established and clear adoption procedures available for review
• Contract available for review
• Explains how adoption fee was derived and what services/items adoption fee includes
• Offers transportation guidance; promotes and/or follow Transportation Guidelines

Adopter Relations

• Communication options include email, fax, phone, and website
• Questions and problems are addressed in a timely matter
• Selectivity of adopters, such as checking adopter’s references, considers ability of adopter

Concern for Animals

• Focus is on finding homes for animals facing uncertain/dangerous futures
• Provides educational resources (especially if the animal is special needs), available before and after placement
• Concerned with quality of match
• Provides high standard of care for animals housed at the rescue facility or designated foster homes
• Has detailed information about the animal, including health history, vaccination and worming, soundness, and behavioral evaluation. (It is acceptable for the rescue to be unable to obtain answers to all questions in certain situations; for example, if the animal was a stray, medical background may not be available. Other exceptions will apply, depending on situation.)

Follow-Up

• Offers mentoring, whether the rescue personnel have the necessary experience to provide advice or if they provide a forum or links with support information
• Stays in touch with the adopter and performs home-checks (when applicable)