How to Start a Maltese Rescue in the Gulf Coast

• Step 1

  Find out about other rescue groups. There are many Maltese rescue groups, including some on the Gulf Coast. You will need to find out about the nearest rescue group to your location so that you can work with them in helping save dogs. There can never be too many rescue groups, so don't worry that you're in competition with someone else.

• Step 2

  Get help from others. You'll need help to run your rescue group, from volunteers or friends and family. Since your rescue group is a not-for-profit agency, you'll have to find people willing to do the work for free. Like a charity, though, rescue groups do find loving volunteers ready to help out when needed. Take out an ad or put up a no-cost ad online on Craigslist or another free venue.

• Step 3

  Talk with agencies dealing with unwanted pets. Contact your area pound or Humane Society to let them know that you are willing to help place unwanted Maltese dogs and puppies. They will need your contact number and phone numbers from other members once you have willing foster parents and permanent homes.

• Step 4

  Get funding. Since no one is getting paid, you will need to locate financial backing to help with your rescue efforts. These can come from grants, donations and fundraisers. For the most part, your Maltese rescue group won't need major funds since your volunteers and foster parents aren't being paid, but there are costs involved such as spaying and neutering, advertising and food for temporary homes.

• Step 5

  Expect more activity during hurricane season. Since you are starting a rescue group on the Gulf Coast, be prepared for an increase in dogs needing homes should a major hurricane strike in the surrounding areas. Even if one is not right on the Gulf Coast, be prepared to help with overflow in the event of a major disaster.

• 3

References & Resources

• Maltese Rescue