I’m proposing here a rather original idea, but one which will not suit everyone: rescuing stray animals in bad shape, to take care of them, and find them foster homes. This idea is especially for those who love animals and want to get involved in animal care. But be careful because this is not an activity within the reach of just anyone as it requires both special skills and material resources as well as a significant investment of time. But how is it possible to earn money by doing this? Let’s find out.
- Here's the program
- What’s the concept?
- Things to Know Before You Start
- How to find stray animals in need of help
- How to identify animals that need rescuing
- What is the starting budget?
- A Few Tips to Make Your Videos Successful
- How to learn video editing
- Where is this activity applicable?
- What about other animal species?
- How to Collect Donations
- How to find a home for rescued animals
- Tips and tricks
- Conclusion
- EcoTips
- Pros and Cons
- Information recap
What’s the concept?
The concept is the following: First, you go around your city or your region looking for stray animals. Be careful, I am not talking about wild animals like those leopards that walk around the streets of Bombay at night to devour dogs. No, I’m talking about domestic animals such as dogs and cats (but mostly dogs because, generally, cats have an easier time fending for themselves) abandoned by their owners or born out of “captivity”.
Your task will be to spot those in obvious distress, rescue them, care for them, help them regain their strength, and then find them a new owner… all while filming the whole process. Yep, because capturing it all on film will allow you to show the world what you are doing and why it is important to do it. Some people are already doing this with some success, such as the YouTube channel Howl of a dog.
You can see it very well on the video. Each step of the rescue is cut in sequences that aren’t too long, but they are enough to captivate and move the viewer. And it works very well if we look at the number of views of this video (43 million at the time of writing). You can imagine that some of the viewers regularly make donations to help them continue their actions, not to mention the money generated by the channel.
But Howl of a dog is a special case, of course. Don’t expect to have such success, at least, not right away. But you might be able to make a living from it or at least cover some of your costs at first. I’ll give you some tips on how to do that, but before you get too excited, there are a few things you should know.
Animals need people, too. They need our care and kindness.
– Mary LindeenThings to Know Before You Start.
First of all, you must absolutely talk to your doctor, who will give you precious advice in case of problems (bites, parasites…). He may also do some tests, but above all inform you about the necessary vaccines to protect you against certain potentially fatal diseases linked to animals (e.g. rabies).
Second, be aware that interacting with animals that have returned to a semi-wild state is not without risk. Most of the time, they are unpredictable, and you will have to be very careful and patient. Sometimes you will even have to come back several times.
Knowing and understanding animals can be learned, notably by watching how others do it (on YouTube for example, but be careful because some do it very badly), but especially by learning from specialists in animal behavior (by reading books on the subject or even by following a complete training). But if you’ve never had a dog, you’ll have to learn everything from scratch.
Regarding your personal safety, I recommend using protective gear such as thick gloves, muzzles, and even resistant clothing. This can protect you from bites, scratches, and other potential injuries, allowing you to handle distressed animals with more confidence and safety.
Keep in mind that rescuing animals can also have a deep emotional impact on you, especially when you face difficult situations like severe injuries or mistreated animals. Post-traumatic stress is a reality for many people involved in this type of activity.
To avoid emotional burnout, you need to know your limits, take regular breaks, and seek support from professionals or specialized online communities. Talking about your experiences with others who understand what you’re going through can really help you maintain your mental balance.
Finally, there is the legal aspect of this activity. It varies greatly depending on the country where you live, but you may need an authorization or even a license to practice but also subscribe to a specific insurance, meet certain hygiene standards, etc. So, don’t forget to get all the administrative information you need before you start.
And last but not least, it would be better to have two people when you go looking for animals in distress. It would be more prudent because in case of a problem, the other person could call for help or act directly, but they could also film you, which would allow you to have two shots of the same scene.

How to find stray animals in need of help
Finding stray animals that need rescuing can be more or less difficult depending on the region where you live. The most obvious approach is to be attentive to your daily surroundings. During your regular walks or while driving, keep an eye out for animals that seem disoriented, injured, or wandering aimlessly. These behaviors may indicate that they are lost or abandoned.
The second option is to set up local alerts using tools like Google Alerts. By activating Google Alerts with specific keywords such as “stray animal,” “lost dog,” or “abandoned cat” in your geographical area, you will receive notifications whenever an article, blog post, or online discussion mentions these terms. This allows you to stay informed in real-time and respond quickly when animals in distress are reported.
Joining local groups on platforms like Facebook, Nextdoor, or even specialized forums can connect you with a community of like-minded people. These groups are often the first to share information about animals in distress, giving you another opportunity to act without delay.
Also, don’t forget to talk about your mission with those around you. Involve local shopkeepers, neighbors, and even municipal workers (such as garbage collectors or street maintenance staff) in your efforts. They are frequently in the area and may notice stray animals, so they can be a valuable resource in alerting you when they come across one. Additionally, distributing flyers or posting notices in local businesses can raise awareness among residents about your cause, encouraging them to contact you if they see an animal in trouble.
Finally, you can collaborate with shelters, veterinary clinics, and local associations. These partners may inform you of cases that are beyond their immediate capacity to handle but still require urgent attention.
The importance of collaborating with veterinarians
Working closely with veterinarians or animal clinics is essential to ensure the health and well-being of rescued animals. Veterinarians provide indispensable expertise in diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases while offering valuable advice on the appropriate care for each species.
Moreover, these professionals can perform procedures like sterilization, vaccinations, and emergency care, ensuring that animals are in good health before being put up for adoption. In some cases, this collaboration will be crucial for the success of a rescue operation you undertake.
How to identify animals that need rescuing
Not all stray animals require intervention, and some situations can even be misleading. Physical signs such as excessive thinness, visible injuries, a dirty or matted coat, or difficulty moving are the most obvious indicators to watch for. Abnormal behavior is also a key indicator: an animal that constantly hides, shows signs of intense fear, or wanders disoriented likely needs help.
It’s also important to consider the immediate environment. For instance, a stray dog or cat in a residential area where pets are common might simply be lost. Conversely, a stray animal in more remote or dangerous areas is more likely to be in distress.
Once you’ve spotted an animal that seems to be in trouble, the next step is to determine if immediate intervention is necessary. In the most serious cases, for example, if the animal is severely injured, unconscious, or showing signs of extreme distress (such as difficulty breathing or convulsions), it is essential to act without delay. In such cases, contacting a veterinarian or an animal rescue center is often the best course of action to ensure the animal gets the care it needs quickly.
However, if the situation seems less urgent, it may be helpful to observe the animal for a while to assess its behavior and determine whether intervention is truly necessary. In any case, the safety of the animal and your own should always be a priority. So, avoid acting on impulse and learn to assess each situation with a cool head.

What is the starting budget?
First, you will need space. You need a house with a large and fenced garden, cages, a space inside where you can quarantine the animals if necessary, possibly a treatment room when the vet comes to visit you (even if most of the time it is you who will go to your vet), etc. In short, if you live in an apartment, it could be very complicated.
You will also need a vehicle to drive around your city and transport the animals you rescue to your home. No need for a truck here a car with enough space is fine.
As far as equipment is concerned, your smartphone can be enough to shoot the different videos, but I still advise you to buy a small camera such as a GoPro or something similar. The advantage here is that you will easily find accessories to hang it on yourself and thus have your hands free (you will need it). You may also want to consider using a lavalier microphone as the on-board microphone on these small “action cams” is often of poor quality. And then you need a computer to edit the videos, not to mention the costs for food, veterinary care, etc.
As you can see, the budget varies depending on what you already have or not. If you don’t have any of the above, it will cost you more than an arm and a leg. So think carefully before you start because there is no guarantee that you will get any donations, even if your videos are perfect.
A Few Tips to Make Your Videos Successful
First, pay attention to each sequence you shoot. You’ll have to take care of the framing, the lighting, the focus, and above all, avoid making the audience seasick with shots that look like they were shot during a magnitude 9 earthquake (fortunately, some cameras are equipped with an optical stabilizer). I invite you to watch some tutorials on YouTube to learn more. And then there is the other aspect, probably even more important: the storytelling.
When applied to video, this technique consists of editing several sequences according to a narrative structure that will captivate the viewers. It’s a bit like telling a story, with a beginning, a plot, and then a happy ending (preferably). It has been used for a long time, not only in the movie industry, but also in the advertising one. I’m not going to give you a course on this because I don’t have the time or the skills to do so, but again, YouTube and Google will help you learn more about it (how beautiful is the Internet, right?).
Learning how to use your equipment and the techniques of shooting and storytelling will help you produce videos, not perfectly, but well enough to build a community of people who will follow you regularly on YouTube and social networks.
Why do cats fare better than dogs?
Dogs have been domesticated by humans for at least 13,000 years, primarily for tasks like hunting, guarding, or teamwork. Over millennia, this close relationship led to coevolution, where dogs developed behaviors and traits that make them more receptive to human signals, more in need of our companionship, and more dependent on our presence to feel secure. Unlike cats, who have a more recent domestication history (around 8,000 years ago) and whose relationship with humans has been less centered on dependence, dogs evolved to be close partners with humans, which explains why they are less autonomous than cats.

How to learn video editing
To publish your videos on YouTube and other social media, you need to acquire basic video editing skills. It might seem complicated, but a few hours are usually enough to learn the essentials and create your first clips.
The first step is to choose software that matches your level. For beginners, programs like Shotcut (free) or Filmora offer basic features sufficient to familiarize yourself with the process. If you feel comfortable using more professional solutions, software like Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro are the best options.
Once you’ve chosen your software, start by exploring the many tutorials available online. Platforms like YouTube are full of explanatory videos on specific topics. And if you want to follow a more comprehensive and structured course, guiding you step-by-step through various editing techniques, from basic cuts to more complex special effects, online learning platforms like Udemy, Skillshare, or Coursera might interest you.
Ultimately, mastering video editing comes down to consistent practice. Take on personal projects, even if they’re simple, to familiarize yourself with the tools and refine your sense of rhythm and visual storytelling. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, as they are part of the learning process. Over time, you will develop your own style and be able to create captivating and well-edited videos.
Is it possible to do everything with a smartphone?
Yes, it is entirely possible to shoot and edit videos entirely with a smartphone, especially with recent models that feature high-quality cameras and editing apps that are often easy to use.
In your case, this could be more than enough, but it’s important to note that editing on a computer generally offers more creative possibilities and greater flexibility thanks to more advanced software. Additionally, it can be more challenging to shoot with a smartphone, as you often need to hold it with one hand, which can limit your movements and image stability.
Where is this activity applicable?
Obviously, it’s not possible to apply this idea everywhere. For example, in Brussels, where I currently live, there are very few stray dogs (I don’t think I’ve ever even seen one). In some countries, particularly in Western Europe and North America, animal protection systems are well developed, with municipal shelters, strict laws against animal cruelty, and systematic sterilization programs.
On the other hand, in other parts of the world, such as certain regions of Eastern Europe, Asia, Africa, or South America, these systems may be less structured or even nonexistent. This is where such private initiatives are most feasible, where individuals and small associations can play a role in caring for stray animals.
In these contexts, rescue efforts can have a significant impact as they fill a gap left by the absence of public services dedicated to animal protection. In any case, it’s up to you to assess the situation based on where you live. And if you see stray dogs around your area, it means this activity is possible.
The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated.
– Mahatma GandhiWhat about other animal species?
I focused on dogs (and cats) in this article, but there are other animals that deserve to be taken care of. In fact, when you see how much biodiversity is collapsing all over the planet (more than 60% of wild animals have disappeared since 1970), you realize how useful it would be. And now, as I write these lines, I even wonder if I won’t write another article just to talk about it because it seems so important. The list is long, but we can mention birds, insects, some primates, felines, reptiles, and many other species. If you are interested, find out which species are endangered in your area. And if you can do something, don’t hesitate (even part-time, even without a budget). Remember that every species that disappears is gone forever…
But to return to our main topic, it is important to prepare for the specific needs of each rescued species. For example, birds, whether wild or domestic, often require special care for their feathers, beaks, and small feet. Additionally, you must provide them with a diet appropriate to their species, as well as living conditions that meet their needs for space, light, and temperature.
For reptiles, such as turtles or lizards, the care is even more specialized. They have strict requirements regarding temperature and humidity, as well as very specific dietary needs. It is essential to thoroughly research each species to provide them with an adequate living environment. Handling these animals should also be done with caution, as some reptiles can carry transmissible diseases or exhibit defensive behavior.
Before venturing into rescuing more exotic animals, make sure you have the necessary knowledge and, if possible, contact a specialist or veterinarian who can guide you in providing the appropriate care.

How to Collect Donations
Using social media is a powerful way of raising awareness and mobilizing a community around your cause. Create dedicated pages on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or YouTube to regularly share updates on the animals you rescue, their progress, and the urgent needs you are facing.
Touching stories and captivating videos can quickly grab attention and encourage people to support you. To strengthen this engagement, it is crucial to be transparent about how the donations received are used. Publish regular financial reports detailing how the money is spent on veterinary care, food, and other expenses. This transparency will build trust with donors, encouraging them to continue supporting your cause in the long term.
There are several ways to collect money. The simplest and most practical is to use specialized platforms such as Patreon, Tipeee, Utip or PayPal. But remember to include a physical address as well because some people (especially older ones) might send you cash or a check directly. Also include your bank account number in the description, so that you can receive any transfers.
Be careful, as you will have understood, this idea is one of those that is launched not for the sake of gain but above all, out of conviction. And even if you manage to collect a lot of money, never forget that you are doing this for a cause in which you believe and not to enrich yourself personally (well, that’s my opinion). Your supporters will be keeping a close eye on your actions anyway.
How to find a home for rescued animals
Unless you have vast lands and an unlimited budget, it will be difficult for you to keep all the animals you rescue. Once they are recovered, you will need to find them a welcoming home. The first step is to prepare the animal for adoption. Ensure that each of them is healthy, but also that their behavior is compatible with integration into a new family. Socializing the animal, getting them accustomed to positive human interactions, and perhaps teaching them some basic commands can greatly increase their chances of being adopted.
Also, make sure that the animal is sterilized, vaccinated, and has identification (a chip or tattoo) before offering them for adoption. These steps show potential adopters that the animal has been well cared for and is ready to join a new home.
Next, consider arranging adoption events. Partnering with local shelters, veterinary clinics, or pet stores can be effective. The goal is to set up days where animals ready for adoption and people looking for a new four-legged companion can meet.
Using social media to promote these events, sharing photos and their stories, can also attract more people. Consider creating detailed profiles for each animal, mentioning their story, personality traits, and specific needs, to help potential adopters find the animal that suits them best.
Another option is to establish partnerships with animal protection associations that already have established networks for placing animals in homes. You might also consider participating in online forums or specialized groups on social media, where animal enthusiasts exchange advice and often look to adopt.
Finally, don’t hesitate to directly contact temporary foster families who have the necessary experience to care for animals while waiting to find them a permanent home. These families can provide a stable environment for the animal, but they can also often recommend reliable adopters through their personal networks.
It’s a small thing to help one animal, but to that one animal it’s a big thing.
– Gene Baur, authorTips and tricks
To maximize your chances of success in rescuing animals in distress, here are some practical tips to help you strengthen the impact of your actions in the field, while also helping you manage this activity more effectively.
- Use local alerts: Activate Google Alerts or join local online groups where people report stray or distressed animals. This allows you to respond quickly and intervene where the need is immediate.
- Create mobile rescue kits: Prepare animal first aid kits in your car, containing bandages, gloves, water, basic medications, and treats. Having these kits ready to go will save you time during your field interventions.
- Document your procedures: Keep a journal or a blog where you document your methods and successes. This can help you improve by reviewing your actions, but also inspire and advise others interested in this activity.
- Use neighborhood posters: If you spot a stray animal, create posters to place around the neighborhood to inform neighbors and potential owners. Indicate that you have taken in the animal and how to contact you. It’s a simple yet effective method to reunite a lost animal with its owners again.
- Prioritize quiet hours: When searching for animals, choose the quiet hours of the day, such as early morning or late evening. Stray animals are often more visible and accessible when the streets are less crowded.
- Build relationships with local shopkeepers: Talk to local shopkeepers, especially those who own food stores, so they can inform you if they see stray animals or hear about animals in distress in the neighborhood. They can become valuable allies in your mission.
- Offer local workshops: Organize free or low-cost workshops in your community to teach people how to help stray animals. This could include basic animal first aid training or information about local resources available. This raises awareness and mobilizes more people for your cause.
- Create a volunteer network: Recruit local volunteers to help you, even on an occasional basis. This could include dog walkers, drivers to transport animals, or people willing to offer temporary homes. A strong network can make a big difference in the effectiveness of your mission.
Conclusion
To succeed in this activity, it is essential to get organized and prepare well. Perseverance, community involvement, and consistently providing the appropriate care for animals are all key factors that will contribute to the success of each mission. By focusing on these essential points, you will help many animals and also encourage others to join you. Never stop learning, stay focused, and overcome obstacles with determination and empathy.
At first it will be difficult. You will have to invest your time and money with no guarantee that it will work. But there is no reason why you can’t make it if you do it right. Later on, when you have gained some notoriety, people will even think of calling you when they spot an animal in distress.
Many people say they love animals more than humans. Maybe because they feel more comfortable with them? In any case, they all have their reasons. And it is mainly to them that you will have to address yourself because they will be the first ones moved by your adventures.
So again, this idea is not for everyone. But, if you think you have the skills and qualities required, then go for it.
What do you think of this idea? Have you ever considered getting involved in a similar activity? What obstacles do you see in such an initiative, and what would motivate you to take the first step? Let me know in the comments.
EcoTips
Environmental and climate change issues are more than ever at the heart of the concerns of this 21st century, which is why I am proposing a few ideas that will enable you to limit the negative impact that the implementation of this idea could have.
These solutions that I suggest are sometimes largely insufficient to compensate for these negative impacts, such as carbon offsetting. Unfortunately, there is not always an ideal and 100% efficient solution, far from it. And if you have others, please do not hesitate to share them in the comments below.
The idea is not inherently bad for the planet, but I admit that it is so broad that I have a hard time knowing where to intervene to reduce its environmental impact. It’s up to you to see what you can do, but here are the things I think you should keep an eye on.
- The car: If you already have one, don’t bother buying another. And if it’s too old, get a more fuel-efficient one or even an electric vehicle if you can. Otherwise, consider using a cargo bike for short trips, if this is feasible in your area.
- The house: Choose a green energy provider if one is available in your country. As for the rest of the house, I refer you to this article which will explain all the points on which you can act concretely to reduce your impact.
- The computer: Choose preferably a laptop. It consumes less energy than a tower. You can easily find good second-hand models on online sales sites or in a store near you.
- Waste management: During animal rescues, you may handle waste such as medication packaging, wipes, or care products. Be sure to sort and recycle this waste as much as possible.
- Animal food: Prioritize buying pet food in bulk or large packages to reduce packaging waste. If possible, choose brands that are committed to the environment or use ingredients from organic farming.
- Care and cleaning products: Opt for eco-friendly care and cleaning products without harmful chemicals. These are better for the environment and also safer for the animals.
- The garden: If you have a garden, consider managing it in an eco-friendly way. For example, create a compost for organic waste, plant local species to promote biodiversity, or install shelters for wildlife (birds, insects, etc.) to contribute to a healthier environment.
Pros
- You are working for a cause that is close to your heart.
- Contact with animals.
- You actively contribute to animal protection by reducing the number of stray animals.
- You can develop new skills in animal care, management, and communication.
- You have the opportunity to raise awareness and inspire others around you to get involved in the cause of animal welfare.
Cons
- It is sometimes very hard (animals that die, those you are attached to and that leave because they have been adopted, those that you may have to put down because they are too aggressive…).
- The budget can be quite high if you start from scratch.
- Time management will be challenging if you need to balance this activity with other professional or personal responsibilities.
- The emotional impact can be significant, especially when dealing with situations of abuse or abandonment.
- The administrative and legal aspects (permits, insurance, and compliance) can be complex and time-consuming.
Info
- Location: Wherever there are animals to rescue and no municipal services to take care of them.
- Investment: Depends on what you already have, but if you have nothing, it will be expensive. But think about it because there is a solution to every problem.
- Earnings perspective: Difficult to estimate. It will be difficult at first, but some people get a lot of gifts.
- Required: Serious knowledge of animal behavior, strong qualities such as patience, dedication, thoroughness, etc.
- Risk level: Quite high, I won’t hide it from you. It will be hard if you don’t already have the minimum required (a house and a car).
- Implementation time: Very variable, again.
- Material needed: One or two cameras, a lavalier microphone, a mid-range computer (e.g. i5 + 8Gb RAM + 1TB SSD disk…)
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