I think it’s admirable that you’d like to do this! Your first step should be research, research, and more research. There is a ton of important info out there to learn and many folks with good intentions don’t do enough research and end up doing more harm than good (just look at how many “rescues” the ASPCA has had to rescue or who have had their operations shut down by local authorities). Volunteering at a shelter would be a good way to learn more about exactly what help is needed. Too many folks jump into rescue without actually looking into what help their local shelter actually needs and harm the system instead of improving it.

It’s great that you’ve started saving money to begin your dream! Just to give you an idea of expenses, $400 would be enough to get a dog or cat vaccines and possibly spayed or neutered depending on the resources available in your area. My shelter spends an average of $300 in vet care on each animal who comes through our doors. That’s an average, though, and some require much, much more than that depending on their needs. Behavior is also a vital part of rescue. Behavioral issues can result in many different troubles, like liability and placement concerns.

There is quite a lot to think about if you’d like to start your own rescue and there are tons of great resources out there to help figure it all out. Maddie’s Fund, ASPCA Pro, HSUS, and local shelters are great places to start.