NSR is recognized by:
Samoyed Club of Amerca
Click here to go to SCA
Join NSR
Let there be no mistake about it; doing dog rescue is a big step, often challenging both mentally and physically. It is a step that must be taken after a great deal of research, soul searching and education. If you think you are ready read on.
Guess it's best to start with a little history of National Samoyed Rescue. NSR is an affiliation of independently operated breed specific rescues across North America dedicated to helping Samoyeds in need of rehoming whether they are in shelters or belong to owners who can no longer keep their Samoyed.
The history of National Samoyed Rescue began in 1996 when a group of Samoyed fanciers realized that, to better serve and protect all members of the breed, it was necessary to attempt unify regional Samoyed rescues under one banner, one network and one voice. Over the next few years guidelines for rescues were formulated (Code of Rescue Ethics or CORE) as well as an application for recognition which provides information on the operations of local rescues. With the approval to join NSR and signing the CORE a rescue can be presented to local shelters and humane societies as well as anyone requesting help as the best of the best.
You may be asking: Where do I go from here? The answer to that question really depends on your experience level. If you are just starting out with a passion to do breed specific rescue you would certainly want to “get your feet wet” so to speak by volunteering for a regional Samoyed rescue close to you. The list of National Samoyed Rescue affiliates can be found on the homepage of this website. If there is not an affiliate in your area; search out other independent Samoyed rescues close to you. Rescues are always looking for volunteers for a multitude of jobs. Unfortunately there are many areas that do not have a breed specific Samoyed rescue. If that is the case, go to your local shelter, humane society or all-breed rescue. With those groups you can get a lot of experience with the hands on operation of rescue. A word of warning, you will need a great deal of experience before you are ready to go out on your own.
Be very patient and learn as much as you can from those who have been doing rescue. This learning process may take years. Once you feel confident enough to go out on your own as a breed specific rescue you will need to set up your own organization and expand your volunteer base. One of the definitive books on starting your own rescue program is: Breed Rescue: How to Start and Run a Successful Program by Sheila Webster Boneham, Ph.D (ISBN 1-57779-008-1).
Within those pages you will find all sorts of information on starting, maintaining and promoting a rescue program. As you read her thoughts on rescue you should realize that starting your own successful rescue program takes much preparation and dedication as well as years developing a program. Another good thing to remember is be in touch with other breed rescues in your area. Through networking you can glean a great deal of information on what works for them as well as forms they use for rescue. You may also avoid some of the pitfalls that other rescues have experienced. One last thought for those just starting out in rescue; never be afraid to ask what you might think is a stupid question. There are no stupid questions and established rescues are more than happy to answer anything.
If you are an established, successful regional breed specific Samoyed rescue or think you are ready to take that next step you may contact NSR at nsrboard@samoyedrescue.org. There is an Application for Recognition that we ask you to fill out. This application provides us with the basic information about your program. You will also be asked to sign the Code of Rescue Ethics that validates that you subscribe to basic principles of rescue. Once you have completed the application and signed the CORE and join NSR you are at an added advantage for two basic reasons. First, you no longer alone in your efforts. You have a multitude of other rescues to network with for support and knowledge. Second, you will be able to present yourself to shelters and humane societies as part of a national organization and the best of the best.
It is hoped that this has given you some information and some thoughts on the course of action you want to take in your rescue efforts. Best of luck to you with your program. If you have any questions feel free to contact the NSR Board or any of our affiliated rescues with any questions you may have. Remember we are all here for you and the furkids.
