How to Start an Animal Shelter

If you have a big heart for animals, a passion for rescuing them from neglect, abuse and disaster, and a head for the business end of the operation, you just might have what it takes to open an animal rescue shelter.

According to an IBIS World report, the Humane Society of the U.S. statistics shows that animal rescue shelters rescue six to eight million cats and dogs every year. Add to that rescues of other types of pets and wildlife, and you have a potential market of millions upon millions of animals in need of a little extra help to recovery from injury, disaster, neglect, and abuse. Yearly revenues from the animal rescue industry exceed $600 million and growing.

Why Starting An Animal Rescue Business Now Is A Good Idea

There is a growing awareness of the problem of pet overpopulation and an objection to pet euthanasia which is driving more families to choose to adopt rescue pets rather than simply buying a new pet. As a result, revenue from animal rescue shelters has been on the rise and is expected to continue its growth trend through 2019.

Animal rescue startup costs

The Humane Society recommends calculating space needed at 90 to 100 square feet per dog and 45 to 50 square feet per cat. If you are planning to rescue larger animals or marine animals, you may need more space depending on how large your planned capacity is. Then multiply that times the cost per square foot for the new construction or renovation of existing facilities.

How does animal rescue shelter find customers? 

Press releases, newspaper articles, active social media presence and networking, professional website, email lists, snail mailing lists, brochures, fliers, phone, calls, participation in local community events such as farmers’ markets, parades and fairs, online directory listings and the Yellow Pages.

What skills are required?

Fundraising and community networking, people skills, animal skills, good judgment and discernment, a love for animals, animal safety and health; a head for business administration, accounting/bookkeeping/payroll, human resources, legal, taxes, and insurance.

What do I need to operate an animal rescue shelter?

Adequate facilities to safely house, feed and provide training and medical care for the number and type of animal you plan to rescue; board of directors, on-staff veterinarian(s), animal care workers/trainers, office staff, business license, non-profit certification, a lawyer, policies and standards, a budget and accounting/payroll system, volunteers, donors, phone, email, professional website, social media accounts, computer and shelter management software,