A Future Home For Furry Friends

Ok, I have this big dream. Well, its not so big to others, but its big to me. I've always loved animals. I've been around them since I was a babe. I want to do something that will help stray and abandoned animals. What better way then to start my own shelter/sanctuary. When I'm out of college and financially stable, I want to start my own shelter or sanctuary.

So, a few questions need to be answered. First off, am I allowed to do this? If so, how would I go about getting a liscence(sp)? Do I need one? About how much will it cost to run and operate a small shelter/sanctuary? What would I need to purchase and who would I need to hire, if anyone?

Thanks for posting Soka.

...check out the zoning laws for where you want to start your shelter and hire a good accountant. Plan on losing money every year and set yourself up with a 501(c)3 "not for profit" tax status so you can accept donations.
Plan on setting up people to donate their time (people who will not back out at the last minute) helping you care for the animals but plan on getting really dirty, every day.
Also anticipate witnessing a lot of cruelty by people who really don't know they are being cruel.
This is something that can't be done part-time unless you volunteer for another rescue first, which is always a good idea before you start your own.
It's a thankless labor of love but the rewards you will receive from the unwanted animals in your care will be enough to keep you going...

Any other suggestions or some things I may not have covered, guys?


Good luck!