Rather than worrying about the legitimacy of a shelter, or their "needs",
why not make a donation to SOS.  They are a not for profit charity set
up to assist all shelters, based on need.  They have their ear to the
ground, so to speak, and often hear about and assist very needy shelters
who never ask for a dime, but so desperately need help.  They do their
homework and make every effort to "check out" the shelters they are
assisting.
 
Because their donations are only either in direct payment of vet bills or
sending of supplies, there's never any reason to think that your donation
is going towards anything other than helping ferrets directly.  Your
donation might also be tax deductible, see your tax professional for more
information.
 
They have been instrumental in assisting in fund raising and distribution
for several very large and very expensive rescues.  And if you want your
donation to go to a specific shelter, they will send it there for you.
 
Their operating overhead is less than minimal with their volunteers
often paying expenses out of pocket, they have no paid fundraisers or
employees, they are just a win-win situation all the way around!
 
Anne
[Posted in FML issue 4517]