Some people may not even be able to distinguish between a rescue and a breeder, and to make matters worse, some collectors/breeders will call themselves a rescue even if they don't, in fact, rescue animals.
I'm sure that many other rescuers who post here can contribute definitions that will add to this distinction, but here is the simplest way to tell.
A rescue saves animals from situations that threaten their life, health, and well-being. These animals are treated for any illnesses and behavior problems, given lots of TLC, and adopted out after a careful screening process. The rescuer takes steps to educate the public on proper care and also reduce overpopulation.
A breeder breeds animals. They may possess all of the qualities of a rescue; they may even save animals from shelters. However, a breeder, whether or not they operate for profit, does not share with a rescue the aim of reducing the population of guinea pigs.
A collector is the most difficult type of these three to identify. A collector may or may not rescue animals from shelters. They may or may not breed. They may or may not offer animals for adoption. Sometimes someone who breeds and rescues may be called a collector. Sometimes someone who "rescues" only from pet stores will fit this definition as well. Whatever their methods of acquiring animals, a collector can be distinguished by their basic lack of control over their operation. Poor conditions, overcrowding, lack of ability to care for their animals are some qualities that you may find in a collector. They are not usually involved in public education, as they are usually barely keeping their head above water in caring for all their animals.
If you are looking for a rescue animal and are not sure what category your local rescue falls into, do some checking. Ask for references. Call other rescues and ask if they have heard of this person. Are they listed on a prominent animal adoption site like Cavy Rescue? Do they have a home page on Pet Finder, Save-A-Pet, 911Pets, or another rescue/adoption network? Sites such as these do not allow just anybody to post as a rescue. They usually require references, including a letter from the rescuer's veterinarian.
If you are still unsure, visit the facility. Take this list with you and see how close the rescuer is to being an "ideal" rescue.
An Ideal Rescue:
- Philosophy
- No breeding.
- No showing.
- Does not actively seek out animals.
- Does not purchase, even at a discount, animals from pet stores or breeders.
- Has only as many animals as they can care for.
- Community Involvement
- Provides education as well as adoption.
- Has a good relationship with local shelters and animal control.
- Is recognized by his/her peers as a rescue and can give references.
- Husbandry
- Has an advanced knowledge of animal care.
- Separates males from females.
- Houses animals inside, in an area sheltered from the elements/predators.
- Uses large uncrowded cages, clean and properly maintained.
- Provides quality feed.
- Provides fresh food in clean dispensers off the floor.
- Stores all feed and medications in a sanitary manner.
- Health Care
- Quarantines new animals.
- Treats sick animals.
- Separates sick animals from well ones.
- Does not have an excessive amount of sick animals.
- Has a basic working knowledge of common illnesses.
- Is proactive in keeping up with the latest care and health information.
- Keeps a supply of common medications on hand as well as first aid supplies.
- Ill pigs are seen by a qualified vet.
- Adoption Practices
- Provides education as well as adoption.
- Maintains a care sheet, application, and contract.
- Screens adopters according to solid guidelines accepted by peers.
- Welcomes visits to the facility.