When establishing an animal sanctuary, one of the most important decisions to be made is the location of the facility. Choosing the best property can save a lot of trouble for both residents and volunteers in the long run, so it is worth taking the time to think this through well before starting a new project.
Legalities
When starting a sanctuary, it’s very important to consult with attorneys and accountants who have nonprofit knowledge and sympathy for the work. This will help ensure that the organization is running legally and that it receives the tax benefits that it needs in order to survive. In addition, it is essential to find insurance for the sanctuary, including liability coverage for volunteers and visitors who might get bitten or scratched by a resident. Also read https://www.brightbidhomes.com/
Zoning
The zoning laws in an area can make or break a sanctuary. Even if a property seems perfect, it may not be allowed to house certain species or host public events, for example. Zoning regulations differ across the country and even between neighboring communities, so it is critical to investigate carefully before selecting a property.
Water: Often, a sanctuary will need a large quantity of water for its residents. In some cases, the amount of water needed can exceed what is available on the property, and a solution can be difficult to find without having access to additional resources. It’s also a good idea to look into how far a potential site is from the nearest city or town in case it becomes necessary to travel for supplies or veterinary care.
Predators: There are a wide range of predators that could threaten the health and safety of your sanctuary residents, from foxes to coyotes and other animals that prey on smaller livestock. It is a good idea to speak with other sanctuaries in your area and ask about what types of predators are most common.
On-Site Living Accommodations: It’s important for a sanctuary to consider whether it will have onsite housing for its caretaker. This can be extremely important for the wellbeing of residents, as it allows a caretaker to respond quickly to emergencies and keep an eye on residents when they’re not being fed or exercised. If a sanctuary does not have onsite living accommodations, it may be more difficult to recruit qualified caretakers who are willing to take on this role.
Ideally, an organization should own the land it operates on rather than leasing it from a single person. This can prevent problems if the founder of a sanctuary ever decides to leave or becomes incapacitated and cannot continue their duties. It can also be a more affordable option for a non-profit that wants to ensure its continued existence in the future. If the organization is not yet ready to buy its own property, it can always explore ways to partner with another reputable sanctuary to benefit both organizations in the meantime. The animals would be better off in the long run, too!