Transparency in a rescue means the books are available to anyone who questions what we spend donated money on. When I founded and ran Friends Animal Rescue we did everything by the book according to the laws of South Carolina. We kept our tax number posted clearly on our website and our Facebook page. A copy of our 501(c)3, state tax exemption, tax information and past filings could be found on the download page or our credentials on the website. A copy of our ledger was available upon request at any time.
Monthly Archives: February 2017
The Exchange
Brussels Griffons are excellent apartment dogs BUT they are active, inquisitive, sometimes naughty terror-uh-terrier types. Without exercise and mental stimulation they become bored. They will then find something interesting to do. Almost guaranteed it WON’T be something you will be pleased with!
How often has this happened to you? Your Griff appears with a forbidden morsel from the trash, the backyard or the laundry basket. You try to approach cautiously, coaxing with soft, sweet words and at the last second the little imp makes a beeline under the table or something inaccessible to you clutching the treasure.
Finger Plucking the Coat
Finger plucking is useful for both stripped and clipped coats.
Carding is done 1-4 times to remove dead undercoat.
Finger plucking, done after carding, is gripping a few hairs at a time and pulling with the grain to remove loose topcoat. I test pluck every few days, if it comes out easily, it’s ready. If not I wait a few more days. Finger plucking should not hurt, a dog should be able to tolerate 15-30 minute sessions with no problem.
“Jackpot” Treat
Jackson Galaxy coined the phrase, but Victoria Stillwell always taught the principle in her force-free training on “It’s Me or the Dog”.
A “jackpot” treat is a food, toy or any other reward your Griffy will find irresistible. Something they will drop anything to get. It should not be available to them at all times but saved for special circumstances. It can be a perfect distraction!
Rescue Policy
All rescues should have all their legal paperwork in order, registered with the state they operate in, tax exempt, a 501c3 so they are tax deductible and listed with the IRS, Guidestar and any other charitable listings.
A rescue needs a policies, for adoption and legally binding contracts. I have learned from experience they should not be “one size fits all” There should be enough flexibility to accommodation unusual circumstances or weigh circumstances for suitability on an individual basis.
Every rescue has it’s supporters, people who will defend any policies or decisions. They also have those who do not agree with their policies. That can cause feelings of discrimination and even hatred.