Design documents, web pages, phone calls, internet research

[songsparrow]

I have been touched by the stories of the dogs on these boards, and very impressed with all of you who are working so hard to save them. I do not have the resources or skills right now to become a foster home or transport for dogs, and most of the dogs posted on these boards are far from where I live anyway. But I'd like to find some way to make a contribution to the effort, and I was wondering if there was a way that I could be of help.

I don't know if there's a protocol for how dogs get listed on this site, and what happens once they are listed (I looked for a FAQ, but didn't see one). I certainly don't want to duplicate efforts, step on anyone's toes, or worst of all, create more work for those of you who are doing the rescues.

I was wondering, once a dog is listed, would it be helpful to:
a. Locate a list of rescue organizations that are within the same area, and post the list in the thread? (I've seen this done in some threads.)
b. Contact the rescue organizations to see if they might be able to help? (If yes, is it best to contact by email or phone? What do you usually say in the contact?)
c. Contact the shelter for more information? (If yes, what info is most needed - how long dog has until it's put down? personality/behavior? other?)

Also, is it of any help to browse Petfinder, DID, or other sites looking for bcs in shelters and then post the info here? (How do you know if a shelter is a kill shelter?)

[4Tom]

Hi Song! Welcome to the Board and thanks for being willing to help. The folks who can give you the best advice are the busiest ones on the board. I'm sure you will get some response soon. I am new at the this, as well, so I'm not qualified to offer any advice. Well, just this one thing: Watch out--this is really addictive! Everyday there is another story to follow of a wonderful BC or mix who did nothing wrong and yet is about to lose its life. It is so sad when they don't make it, but such joy when one finds a new home!

[songsparrow]

Thanks for your reply 4Tom! Trust me, I am already addicted! I say lots of prayers for these pups, and I am amazed at the miracles that happen.

I thought I'd list some ideas of things that I can offer to do from afar, if anyone could use the services, to help free up some of your time for "hands-on" tasks:

1. I can do Internet research (e.g., what rescues may be in a particular area, transport options, etc)
2. I can make phone calls (to shelters, rescue orgs, etc)
3. I can design flyers/brochures (e.g., literature to hand out to interested people about your rescue, or flyers about an upcoming place you'll be taking the dogs for people to meet them)
4. I can design basic web pages or update web pages
(I'm not a professional at designing web pages or documents, but I can do a pretty good job with basic items.)