Running an animal rescue isn’t just a mission—it’s a 24/7 commitment. You’re saving lives, providing care, managing volunteers, and somehow trying to find the funds to keep it all going. Sound familiar?
Whether you’re a local shelter, foster-based nonprofit, or volunteer-run rescue group, the pressure to raise money without exhausting your limited team is real. And while bake sales and car washes might help, you need fundraising ideas that scale—ideas that are both doable and dependable.
That’s exactly what this guide offers.
At Fundraising.com, we’ve worked with animal rescue organizations of all sizes for over 25 years. From community shelters to breed-specific nonprofits, we understand the challenges you face—and we’ve developed tools, products, and strategies that help you raise more while doing less.
When your team is maxed out, a long prep time just isn’t an option. These fundraisers are quick to launch and don’t require a large staff or complex logistics.
They sell themselves. Perfect for community events, pet adoption days, or even placed at local vet offices and groomers.
Our digital order-takers let your supporters buy from a wide selection of items—including people-friendly snacks and pet treats—without any inventory management on your end.
Offer gift cards with built-in value. No shipping, no setup—just pure fundraising.
Popcorn is universally loved, easy to promote, and delivers a strong return. Great for tabling events or online stores.
No storage, no distribution. Supporters shop online and items are delivered directly to them, making it perfect for small or remote rescues.
Reaching the same supporters over and over again leads to fatigue. These ideas help broaden your reach, bring in new donors, and grow your rescue’s visibility.
Feature individual animals on your website or social media and invite donors to “sponsor” their care. Include updates or thank-you notes for a personal touch.
Ask pet parents to submit photos and have your audience vote with their dollars. It’s fun, competitive, and shareable.
Partner with small businesses willing to match donations up to a certain amount. It creates urgency and community buzz.
Sell branded signs like “Rescue Hero Lives Here” or personalized nameplates for donors’ pets. They boost pride and recognition.
Take donated items—like pet baskets, services, or handmade goods—and auction them on Facebook or Instagram Stories.
If your rescue runs on a core team of exhausted volunteers, you need ideas that feel light, fun, and sustainable. These campaigns are built to support your team, not stretch it.
Supporters scratch off circles to reveal small donation amounts. It’s interactive, inexpensive to start, and adds up quickly.
These small-ticket items are ideal for booths at adoption days or tabling events. Easy to carry, easy to sell, and no learning curve required.
Fun to host and simple to manage with a laptop and a Zoom link. Charge admission or offer prize entries.
Split your team into groups and let them “compete” to raise the most funds online. Adds motivation and fun without heavy lifting.
Ask supporters to submit pet photos or recipes and create a digital or printed fundraiser. They make thoughtful gifts and keep your rescue top-of-mind.
If you’re just getting started or don’t have a seasoned fundraising expert on staff, these are the campaigns you can run with minimal experience.
We’ll help you set up a simple storefront so you can share a link and start fundraising in under a day.
Offer tiered donation levels—$10/month feeds a kitten, $25/month covers medical care, etc. Automate thank-you messages and perks.
Set up a wish list and run a social campaign asking for item donations. It’s a form of fundraising that brings in real value.
Partner with a local store or pet boutique and ask customers to round up their purchase to support your rescue.
Sell or gift small care packages to adopters, with treats, tips, and branded merch. You can even include discount codes for future donors.
There’s a reason shelters and animal charities across the country trust Fundraising.com. We make fundraising not just easier, but more rewarding—for you and your supporters.
Here’s what makes us a perfect match for your mission:
Customized Plans Based on Your Shelter’s Needs
No two rescues are alike. We’ll help you build a plan that works for your goals, schedule, and community.
We make launching your next fundraiser simple, fast, and effective. Here’s how to take the first step:
Visit fundraising.com or call 1.800.443.5353 to get started today.
Your mission is important. And while fundraising is necessary, it doesn’t have to be another source of stress.
With the right tools, a supportive partner, and a plan that respects your time and your team, fundraising can feel like a win—for your rescue, your volunteers, and the animals depending on you.
Let’s make it easier, together.
