Start a Chihuahua Rescue in Vancouver B.C.
Chihuahuas are well-known for being the smallest dog breed in the world. So much so that in recent years, Chihuahuas have even become a popular fashion accessory. Their popularity, however, has also led to an increase in the abandonment and neglect of these small dogs. Every year, thousands of Chihuahuas are abandoned by their owners because of the time and money required to care for them. Chihuahuas are often misconstrued as high-strung and afraid, but proper care and correct training breeds a smart animal, with a curious personality, who is truly devoted to his owner. If you're interested in starting a Chihuahua rescue in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada here are a few tips.
Instructions
1. Get to know the Chihuahua breed. Familiarize yourself with Chihuahuas by volunteering with a local Chihuahua rescue or shelter, like BC Chihuahua Rescue or become a foster parent to Chihuahua's by visiting the City of Vancouver's Community Services website.
2. Understand all the aspects of running an animal rescue. Volunteering at a local shelter, humane society or pound will offer fast advice on whether you have what it takes to run an animal shelter. Check out the volunteer programs at 1 At A Time Rescue or Big Heart Rescue, or visit the Vancouver Humane Society for more information on how you can help.
3. Perform all of the functions that go into running a successful rescue. Volunteering in an animal shelter and learning about the Chihuahua breed are all great steps at learning to open a rescue, but you must be sure to learn all the aspects of running an animal shelter, including fundraising, marketing, adoption processes and what to look for in a home visit. Get familiar with all these skills before venturing out on your own.
4. Create a business plan. Starting an animal rescue requires a lot of upstart to cover the medical bills and maintenance of your rescued Chihuahuas. If you've never owned your own business, consider taking a business course at one of the local community colleges, like Vancouver Community College (VCC), and ask your professor to help you with a 5-year business plan.
5. Get licensed to become a kennel keeper. In British Columbia, a person owning more than three dogs, whether for personal or business purposes, must have a license to operate a kennel. To get a kennel license you must fill out an application for a business permit by visiting the City of Vancouver's Municipal website, filling out the online application and paying the $60 application fee. Kennel licenses are valid for one year.
6. Complete zoning requirements. The zoning requirements for an operational animal shelter in British Columbia follows the by-laws of Rural Zone A. This zoning law requires that front, side, back and any flanking yards be at least 15 meters. The kennel must also be at least 50 meters away from any other private or public dwelling unless owned by the kennel owner.
7. Hire an accountant and find a veterinarian. Find a veterinarian office that is nearby your kennel and talk to them about setting up a price list for vaccinations, alterations and primary treatment for your rescued Chihuahuas. Find an accountant to help you deal with your finances, organize your books and do your taxes.
8. Prepare an information packet for your Chihuahua rescue. Your rescue will be alleviating the load from other rescue shelters and humane societies, so be sure that these facilities know you exist. Prepare an information packet that includes a referral from your veterinarian, your full contact information, and let them know you are ready to take in Chihuahuas.
