Independent Rescuers are working everyday across this country to save and transport homeless pets to a new life. There are thousands of us crossposting, pulling, fostering, socializing and saving as many as we can. I am an Independent Rescuer and so are many of my friends. I didn't start out this way and I have learned much in the almost two years I have been doing this. But the one constant is ... I have been saving as many as I can, one by one.
Those who know me, know the history of this site and what happened here six months ago. Those who stayed with me, know the drama of the past (and the continuing drama) and did not like it. We have moved on from it, happily and are now in a much better place. However, thinking I was starting a rescue "collective" of friends and finding out that was far from the case, I have come to learn many eye opening truths and one of them is ... I am an Independent Rescuer.
An Independent Rescuer saves animals from kill shelters and finds them homes. An Independent Rescuer helps a family who is in financial trouble to keep or rehome their beloved pet, without looking for gain. An Independent Rescuer does not have an IRS Non-Profit 501c3 because that costs over $1000 and she believes that money is better spent on saving pets.
An Independent Rescuer does not look for handouts or reimbursement and gratefully accepts a small donation to help them save more pets. They are not looking to pay their phone bill or their rent, but only want to save animals.
Sure, there are bad Independent Rescuers, just like there are bad Non-Profits. Anytime we donate money to anyone, we should do some homework. If there has been some bad press or negative comments, usually that means something. Look at who is doing the talking and what their motive might be. Where there's smoke, there is usually some kind of fire. Take all of it into consideration before you donate to anyone. Check with the IRS to see if they have been investigated. There are other places to check charities, also. Guide-star and the Better Business Bureau are just two to try.
A 501c3 means nothing except they spent money to get it and can give you a receipt you can claim on your taxes. Unless you are audited, it is worthless, because we can all claim a certain amount as charitable contributions every year. Ask your accountant. A 501c3 does not make the group honest nor does it regulate it's decisions or actions. It does not mean there were no complaints or actions against them. It does not mean they aren't using your donation for administrative purposes.
Independent Rescuers are desperately needed all over this country and are working feverishly to save as many animals as possible, before their time is up. Fostering is a rewarding and sorely needed endeavor that I urge you to try. You may find your Forever Friend in the process.
Independent Rescuers use their own money to vet, feed and house an animal. They may work with other rescuers, shelters or groups, to find a home or a sanctuary for an unwanted pet. Most are passionate about what they do and are all that stands between life and death for thousands upon thousands of pets.
You would be surprised at how many Independent Rescuers are out there and even some of the largest and most active who are Independent and do not have an IRS non-profit status.
Independent Rescuers do not need a Directors "permission" to bring a dog into a program. Independent Rescuers do not need to send adoption fees back to someone who didn't do the work. Independent Rescuers can and do work as a real "Collective" helping each other, supporting each other and ensuring the animals are saved.
We are a Collective of Independent Rescuers
Please, Consider joining our team of Independent Rescuers and Foster Partners, here on the Rescue Resource Collective.
Oodles of Doodles, Inc. specializes in Oodles/Poodles/Doodles/Schnoodles.
Gunn Dogs is also helping Doodles and specializes in Hunting Breeds.
Poodle Rescue of Vermont is forming their group now to be a force in Poodle Rescue.
You can utilize your own Rescue Group Page to highlight your dogs and organize your volunteers.
We will help by listing the pets here on our site and on Petfinder and Facebook. We can use a common application, if need be and contract and once adopted, the adoption fee is yours to cover expenses. Working together as a real "Collective" we can accomplish more and save more.
I am Thankful for all the Independent Rescuers out there, who are saving pets, one by one.
Lynne Fowler
Oodles of Doodles, Inc.

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