Frequently Asked Questions

Mutual Rescue has generated excitement all around the world. Below are answers to the most common questions we’ve received about the initiative.

Q: How were the stories for the Mutual Rescue films selected?

All submissions we received from the Call for Mutual Rescue Stories in the spring of 2016 were evaluated in a 4-tier selection process. To advance to the final tier, stories had to demonstrate a clear mutual rescue theme, whereby the person and animal each profoundly benefited from the other. Additionally, only stories from the U.S. were eligible. The stories were screened by people with expertise in animal welfare, visual storytelling, and other relevant fields. The same process is being followed for all calls for Mutual Rescue stories.

Q: How many submissions did you get from your calls for Mutual Rescue stories?

We have received hundreds of submissions during our calls for stories.

Q: What is the impact of your films?

“Eric & Peety” was posted on Valentine’s Day, 2016, as a sample film to encourage submissions for our national Call for Mutual Rescue Stories. Since that time, collectively all our films have been viewed 153 million times, and viewed around the world. Sign up for Mutual Rescue news.

Q: I want to help. How can I get involved with Mutual Rescue?

While not everyone can own an animal, everyone can benefit spending time with them. With Doggy Day Out programs, people can spend a few hours giving a homeless dog a much needed break from the shelter. These programs are shown to reduce stress in dogs waiting for new homes and help them find homes sooner. They also give people the opportunity to benefit from the company of a pet while doing something good. Helping shelters start these programs and driving participants to them is a reflection of one of our larger goals: encouraging people to engage with shelters on a local level. Time, expertise, enthusiasm, ideas, connections, goodwill, financial support, and love – these are ways you can help! Find a local shelter. While not everyone can own an animal, everyone can benefit spending time with them. With Doggy Day Out programs, people can spend a few hours giving a homeless dog a much needed break from the shelter. These programs are shown to reduce stress in dogs waiting for new homes and help them find homes sooner. They also give people the opportunity to benefit from the company of a pet while doing something good. Helping shelters start these programs and driving participants to them is a reflection of one of our larger goals: encouraging people to engage with shelters on a local level.

Q: Can I show the films at my event?

Our goal is to help local animal shelters and rescue groups everywhere. If you would like to screen a Mutual Rescue film at your event, please tell us more about the opportunity.

Q: What is a rescue animal?

We define “rescue animals” as pets who were in need of a home and were adopted, including those from animal shelters and rescue organizations, found abandoned or wounded, removed from a dangerous or abusive environment, or given a new home before they would have ended up homeless or in a shelter.

Q: How is Mutual Rescue driving engagement at the local level?

Our programs connect people and animals in transformative ways. For example, our initial program, Doggy Day Out (DDO), promotes connections between community members and their local shelters. And our film festivals are inspirational events to benefit homeless animals in your community.