How do I recognize a great pet rescue organization to support financially?

Question

I support a 501 (c) (3) dog rescue organization. That is all I know about it. What do I ask of them?

Answer 1

One thing you can do is go on to Guidestar and pull their IRS 990 form.  It will tell you how much money is spent on administration vs. actual dog rescue.  It will tell you about the group's mission, their board of directors, and much more.  It will tell you about their finances.  If no Form 990 exists, it means they took in less $25,000 the previous year.

You can ask them how many dogs they placed last year and the year before.  You can ask them about their placement policies.  One of the things I've found is that some rescue groups are really "hospice" groups and foster dogs with little intent to actually place them in permanent homes.  They may have adoption policies but nearly no one qualifies.  This is especially true of very small organizations.  Not all are this way - in fact most are very good.  But you want to know how effective they really are at their mission before you hand over your money.

If they are reluctant to share this with you, or they seem financially fragile, you may want to find a different group.

Answer 2

I think Bozema has a great answer. I might add that you should inquire about their philosophies.  I never support ANY rescue or shelter whose leaders support PETA or PETA like organizations or have PETA quotes or literature on their websites or in their facilities.  I am adamant about that.