Plan Ahead

• 1). Find out if there is Breed Specific Legislation (BSL) in your area. The Humane Society website (see Resources) has a listing of the areas with BSL pending and BSL that has been enacted. If BSL is a consideration in your area, more than likely, you will not be able to open a Pit Bull rescue there. If you are that committed to the cause, you may have to move to another area to open a Pit Bull rescue.
  
  
• 2). Raise money. Running a Pit Bull rescue takes a considerable amount of money. You will have initial start-up costs as well as recurring costs. In some cases, you may be able to find a corporate or private sponsor to make regular donations. Consider contacting local bully kennels or business owners who are pet enthusiasts. You may need to organize a fundraiser such as a dog wash.
  
  
• 3). Pick a location for your rescue. Ideally, this will be a large area of land in the country. In most cases, you will have to purchase the land as many landlords are reluctant to lease land that will house a dog rescue.
  
  
• 4). Obtain insurance. At a minimum, you will need liability insurance that includes an animal clause. This clause will cover you in the event of a dog bite or if the dogs cause damage to any property. In some municipalities, there will be a minimum amount of insurance required since you will have Pit Bulls on the property. A local insurance agent should be able to help you determine the amount of coverage you need.
  
  
• 5). Build kennels or other suitable housing for the dogs in your care. As a rescue operation, you will have to meet local health department standards and some federal standards concerning the housing and care of the dogs. Before you build your kennels or housing, contact the code enforcement office in your area to get the proper permits. You must also contact the Department of Health at (573) 751-6400 to find out requirements in your area.
  
  
• 6). Arrange discounted or free care for the dogs at a local veterinarian office. If you are unable to find one vet that will commit to caring for all of the rescue dogs, make arrangements with more than one office.
  
  

Get Supplies

• 1). Ask for volunteers to help you care for the dogs. Put up flyers at local pet stores with your contact information to let pet enthusiasts know you need assistance. In some areas, you may be able to have people come to the rescue center to do court ordered community service. If you are interested in this, contact the municipal court in your area.
  
  
• 2). Get premium dog food. Some large chain pet stores offer discounted food to adoption centers and rescues, so ask the manager of a pet store in your area if there is a program in place that will help you. Keep in mind that cheap dog food, is unsuitable for Pit Bulls.
  
  
• 3). Advertise the rescue. People in your area need to know about your rescue before they can adopt a dog or refer you to dogs in need. Make sure that you include contact information in all of your ads.
  
  
• 4). Accept dogs and test their temperament. You may have to keep some bullies permanently as they may be too aggressive to place with a new owner. Others may be suitable for a home without children while some may be wonderful around children.
  
  
• 5). Find the dogs good homes. The new parents should be responsible dog owners willing to properly train and socialize the dog. It is a good idea to have people sign a contract concerning the care that is expected for the dog. Consider putting a spay and neuter clause in the contract.