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 Bank

An “Eligible Pet Food Bank” is a community based organization serving as a resource for local individuals and families struggling to provide care for their pets. These are typically food banks, pantries or social service agencies with multiple assistance programs (e.g., rent assistance, elder care, animals on wheels).

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

• 501(c) 3 status described in the Internal Revenue Code 1986, and its subsequent amendments.

• Has publicized screening and reporting capabilities that meet a generally-recognized standard for providing welfare assistance, such as State and Federal guidelines or Feeding America recommendations.  And recipients
  • Agree that pets are for companionship and not for breeding or illegal activities
  • Agree to maintain pets in a healthy condition
  • Agree to not sell or return product
• Has successfully completed their most recent audit or independent review conducted by one of their donors or funding agencies.
• For organizations that have not completed an audit or independent review (e.g., newly-formed) additional verification steps will be required.

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 the Internal Revenue Code 1986, and its subsequent amendments.

•  Has publicized screening and reporting capabilities that meet a generally-recognized standard for providing welfare assistance, such as State and Federal guidelines or Feeding America recommendations.  And recipients
  • Agree that pets are for companionship and not for breeding or illegal activities
  • Agree to maintain pets in a healthy condition
  • Agree to not sell or return product
• Has successfully completed their most recent audit or independent review conducted by one of their donors or funding agencies.
• For organizations that have not completed an audit or independent review (e.g., newly-formed) additional verification steps will be required.

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