Rescue Groups

An “Eligible Rescue” rescues and provides shelter and care for animals that have been abused, injured, abandoned or are otherwise in need.

An “Eligible Rescue” has the following characteristics:

• 501(c) 3 status described in Section 170(b)(1)(A)(vi), Internal Revenue Code 1986, and its subsequent amendments
• No breeding of animals occurs
• All animals shall be housed in a clean, comfortable, safe, species appropriate, stimulating and enriching environment
• Spay or neuter all animals prior to adoption
• Must demonstrate a respect for quality of life and provide the most humane death possible for animals who are suffering or otherwise not suitable for adoption
• Has a sufficient number of qualified employees/ volunteers to provide the appropriate level of care for the animals
• Must have a comprehensive and effective adoption program

Pet Food Banks

An “Eligible Pet Food Bank” may act as a resource for local rescue groups or a much needed resource for individuals and families struggling to provide care for their pets.  These are community based organizations.

An “Eligible Pet Food Bank” has the following characteristics:

• 501(c) 3 status described in Section 170(b)(1)(A)(vi), Internal Revenue Code 1986, and its subsequent amendments
• Agrees that their “recipients” meet the appropriate requirements as defined in “Eligible Recipients”

Community Animal Shelters (both public and private)

An “Eligible Animal Shelter” rescues and provides shelter and care for animals that have been abused, injured, abandoned or are otherwise in need.  Animal Shelters may be eligible for discount buying programs directly from manufacturers and must pursue the availability and eligibility for such programs prior to applying for donations.

An “Eligible Animal Shelter” has the following characteristics:

• Private shelters must have 501(c) 3 status described in Section 170(b)(1)(A)(vi), Internal Revenue Code 1986, and its subsequent amendments. Government shelters are not subject to this requirement.
• No breeding of animals occurs
• All animals shall be housed in a clean, comfortable, safe, species appropriate, stimulating and enriching environment
• Spay or neuter all animals prior to adoption
• Must demonstrate a respect for quality of life and provide the most humane death possible for animals who are suffering or otherwise not suitable for adoption
• Has a sufficient number of qualified employees/ volunteers to provide the appropriate level of care for the animals
• Must have a comprehensive and effective adoption program, including a positive working relationship with community rescue groups
• Must have a demonstrated lack of financial resources

Community Service Organizations

An “Eligible Community Service Organization” provides supportive services for individuals or families in need within their communities.

An “Eligible Community Service Organization” has the following characteristics:

• 501(c) 3 status described in Section 170(b)(1)(A)(vi), Internal Revenue Code 1986, and its subsequent amendments
• Agrees that their “recipients” meet the following guidelines:
•          Agree that pets are for companionship and not for breeding or illegal activities
•          Meets the “community service organizations” income and need qualifications
•          Agree to maintain pets in a healthy condition
•          Agree to not sell or return product

Dog / Cat Sanctuaries

An “Eligible Dog / Cat Sanctuary” rescues and provides shelter and care for animals that have been abused, injured, abandoned or are otherwise in need.  Animal Sanctuaries may be eligible for discount buying programs directly from manufacturers and are encouraged to pursue the availability and eligibility for such programs.

An “Eligible Dog / Cat Sanctuary” has the following characteristics:

• 501(c) 3 status described in Section 170(b)(1)(A)(vi), Internal Revenue Code 1986, and its subsequent amendments
• No breeding of animals occurs
• Veterinary care is provided as appropriate
• All animals shall be housed in a clean, comfortable, safe, species appropriate, stimulating and enriching environment
• Must demonstrate a respect for quality of life and provide the most humane death possible for animals who are suffering
• Has a sufficient number of qualified employees/ volunteers to provide the appropriate level of care for the animals
• Must have a comprehensive and effective adoption program for animals who are “adoptable”
• Spay or neuter all animals prior to adoption

Feral Cat Related Organizations

An “Eligible Feral Cat Related Organization” is committed to improving the lives of feral and homeless cats.

An “Eligible Feral Cat Related Organization” has the following characteristics:

• 501(c) 3 status described in Section 170(b)(1)(A)(vi), Internal Revenue Code 1986, and its subsequent amendments
• Actively participates in a “TNRF” Trap-Neuter-Return-Feed program as a long term solution in controlling feral cat populations.
• Educates the public about the plight of stray and feral cats and the need to spay/neuter pets

Disaster Relief/Emergency Aid – Animal Welfare

One of the ongoing goals of Rescue Bank ^SM and its’ affiliate organizations is to provide assistance in disaster and emergency situations.  The very unpredictability and nature of an emergency make setting strict requirements difficult. Each presenting situation will be evaluated by the affiliate organization and at their discretion may result in the temporary suspension of qualifying criteria. We may provide emergency relief in the form of pet food and supplies in the following types of situations:

• Large-scale disasters (e.g. hurricanes, fires and other natural catastrophes)
• Multiple-animal rescue disasters