Dog Community

I want to start an animal shelter...

Posted : 7/24/2012 6:08:23 AM

Hi everyone. So, I am 17, still in school, still learning. And eventually I want to own/run my own animal shelter. I just wanted some advice as to what I should be doing right now to prepare myself. And what kind of schooling may be required, or anything like that. I know that getting experience at a shelter would be a big help, but because of school, and where I live, I can't really volunteer at any shelter right now. I am planning on it after I get out of school. (I'm a senior in high school, one more year!) But, I know there are many smart people here who I think can give me some advice! :) Thank you all!

rufftie

Posted : 7/24/2012 6:34:42 AM

you're right in experience being the best teacher, so volunteering will be most helpful. you can also get in touch with rescue/shelters and see what else you can do other than going to the physical shelter. they need people to help with PR, going to malls, show, pet stores with the animals or literature. they need computer help, paper pushers, etc. there is more to running a shelter than just petting the dogs.

i would also practice banging my head against the wall for hours cause that's what it will feel like after you have to deal with people who dump perfectly good pets for stupid reasons, people who abuse pets and the bureaucracy entailed to try to make a dent in it all.

JackieG

Posted : 7/24/2012 8:25:37 AM

Volunteering at whatever job is needed at your local shelters will get you some experience and will also provide some insight into what working at or running a shelter is all about. I found this link on petfinder that you might find helpful.

http://www.petfinder.com/how-to-help-pets/start-animal-shelter.html

Liesje

Posted : 7/24/2012 10:56:10 AM

If you want to be the one running the shelter I would consider some sort of degree in Business, Marketing, and/or Communications.

DougB

Posted : 7/24/2012 1:27:50 PM

Excellent advice so far. Experience and education. While gathering both, start preparing a business plan. Every thing you need to know and have to run the business are included-finances, equipment, insurance, advertising, training, policies, advisors, laws and regulations. Eventually, you plan the facility. It gives you something to show people(bankers, volunteers, donors) and yourself when questions come up. Experience, knowledge, and a plan are hard to beat.

meimei071625

Posted : 7/31/2012 3:37:04 AM

Experience and education is a must.