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Twenty years ago, a passion for animal welfare led Linda Schiller to establish Eleventh Hour Rescue. Her vision was simple yet powerful: to save animals on the brink of euthanasia and give them a second chance at life. Linda’s journey, as described in a heartfelt video, showcases her dedication to this mission. Her words resonate with compassion and determination, reflecting the very spirit of Eleventh Hour Rescue. Sadly, Linda passed away on October 31, 2020, after battling pancreatic cancer, but her legacy continues to thrive through the organization she founded.
Milestones and Achievements: Two Decades of Lifesaving Work
Eleventh Hour Rescue has grown significantly over the past two decades. In 2020, one of its most significant milestones was the purchase of a state-of-the-art kennel facility at 77 Flanders Road, Flanders, NJ. This was a dream come true for Linda Schiller, marking a new chapter for the organization. The facility, much larger and more advanced than the previous location in Randolph, boasts an agility yard, several play yards with doggy pools and toys, access to trail systems, kitchen areas, a vetting room, and an isolation wing. The sizable property for daily dog walks ensures that every animal receives the care and attention they deserve.
Eleventh Hour Rescue has saved over 45,000 animals. Thanks to the numerous 300-plus volunteers and 250 active foster homes, the organization facilitates between 1,600 to 1,800 adoptions annually, changing the lives of countless animals and their new families.
Engaging the Community: Spreading Awareness and Education
Eleventh Hour Rescue actively engages with the community to raise awareness about its mission. The organization participates in various community events, such as Community Night Outs and Community Days. It is often invited to school programs, where they educate children on topics like rescue, spay and neuter, breed-specific information, and training. Through these efforts, Eleventh Hour Rescue spreads crucial knowledge about responsible pet ownership and finds homes for animals.
Eleventh Hour Rescue Success Story: Turner’s Transformation
One of the most memorable success stories from Eleventh Hour Rescue is that of Turner, a dog who faced a grim fate at a kill shelter in Georgia. Hungry, frightened, and abandoned, Turner was given a second chance when Eleventh Hour Rescue brought him to their no-kill shelter in New Jersey. Turner had behavioral issues that made it difficult for him to find a home, but the dedicated staff and volunteers at Eleventh Hour Rescue never gave up on him.
After two years of hard work, Turner was fostered and eventually adopted. Through continued support from the organization, Turner thrived, earning his AKC Canine Good Citizen certification and becoming a therapy dog. He made over 150 therapy visits to schools, camps, and libraries, helping special needs children and appearing on the Anderson Cooper Show. Turner’s story is evidence of the transformative power of love and dedication, and although he passed away on June 18, 2021, his legacy lives on in the lives he touched.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Eleventh Hour Rescue
As Eleventh Hour Rescue moves into its next chapter, the organization remains committed to its core mission: to rescue animals in need and work towards a future where no cages remain occupied. Their goals include paying down the mortgage on their new facility, continuing to rescue animals, and educating the public on the importance of spaying and neutering to address the overpopulation problem.
Linda Schiller’s words continue to guide the organization: “We will not stop until all of the cages are empty.” This unwavering commitment drives Eleventh Hour Rescue as it continues its lifesaving work, ensuring that animals like Turner have the chance to find loving homes and live fulfilling lives.
