If you have thoroughly read this site, you we be better prepared to avoid the pitfalls, and we are here to assist you in setting up your program. You can always contact us if you are experiencing difficulties.

 Becoming a dumping ground for unwanted cats. Once again, we highly recommend, except in emergency situations, working only with shelters and animal control and not taking owner relinquishments.

 Lack of funds. Establish a budget before you begin your program and stick to it. Be willing to make difficult decisions when faced with cats that could possibly absorb a great deal of your funds.

  Lack of commitment and planning. If your members are not committed, your program has little chance of success. Be sure everyone is onboard. Formalize your rescue plan. The rewards of such planning will make the effort well worth it.

  Liability Issues. Keeping up on your paper work and relinquishment and other forms should help you avoid this happening. Possible liability problems can be more of an issue when working with a group of surrendered cats either from an individual or family member of a breeder. In these situations, we highly recommend you request proof of ownership. It is the tendency of rescuers to charge in where the welfare of cats is an issue, an admirable trait, but not always a wise one. Proceed cautiously or your organization might find itself embroiled in the middle of an unpleasant legal problem. Your Rescue may want to investigate and purchase liability insurance, especially if you have a large network. The most cost effective seems to be that offered by Kennel Pak.

  Animal Hoarders or Rescue Radicals. These types of individuals are often attracted to rescue programs. It is best if your members are well-informed and educated people. If you have volunteers or foster homes participating that are not well educated. closely monitor their level and quality of participation. If you find you are taking in many more cats that you are placing, it is time to reassess your policies and procedures and advertising.. and it may  mean it is time to quit rescuing.

  Opportunists and Moralizers. There are some people that are motivated to participate in a rescue program because they perceive it as a way to make money or need to be perceived as one of the "moral elite".   If such self-centered interests are the motivation, decisions will be made that are not necessarily the best for the cats.