Jasmine

Rescue Ridge is a highly recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit, no-kill animal rescue organization in Monmouth County, that has been steadily saving lives for over ten years. Formed by the efforts of a local woman in 2001, Terri Willis committed her life to helping the animals of our community. Born with a severe heart defect, Terri never allowed her disability to slow her down. Her endless love, determination and dedication to all the animals was heartwarming and remarkable. When she passed away, the animal community lost a great advocate and rescuer. Although no longer with us, Terri’s undying spirit continues on through her dream…. The dream of Rescue Ridge.

Staffed entirely by volunteers, Rescue Ridge relies exclusively on donations, sponsorships and fundraisers for support, which goes back to the animals. With the help of our many followers and volunteers, we primarily serve the Monmouth and Ocean Counties of the Jersey Shore, but have gone much further to rescue animals in need. Known in our area as the “last chance” rescue, we have taken in many animals slated for euthanasia by shelters. Animals come to us from all over the communities we serve for many different reasons. We have helped animals whose owners could no longer care for them due to age, illness, behavioral or economic reasons, keeping them out of the overcrowded shelters and adopting them back into loving homes. We have never turned away a stray or any animal in distress. We have taken in “difficult” dogs that most other rescues or shelters would not even consider. We take the time to socialize them, work with them and ultimately make them adoptable.

Our vision is to take our efforts to a new level. Committed to saving the lives of our community pets, Rescue Ridge is dedicated to the goal of introducing a no-kill shelter to Monmouth County. Beyond a shelter, this safe haven for animals will offer our community the help it needs to finally put an end to the senseless deaths and unnecessary loss of life that these animals face daily. Our focus will include education and affordable medical care to pet owners, keeping their animals healthy, comfortable and in their homes where they belong. Never should a family have to surrender their pet to a shelter because they cannot afford their medical treatment. We will also extend microchipping to our fellow animal lovers, making sure lost pets find their way home and not behind the bars of a shelter, where they can quickly wear out their welcome waiting for their family to find them. We would be a proactive leader in putting an end to animal overpopulation by offering a true low cost spay/neuter clinic. A TNR (Trap & Release) Program would also be offered for feral cats, which would help keep the cat overpopulation to a minimum. Our adoption center would be a safe and happy place, where families can come meet their new best friend. Beyond all of this, we will offer affordable training and animal socialization to our communities, which will in turn, reinforce public safety and ensure the safety of our beloved pets. This safe haven will be run by staff and our dedicated, experienced volunteers, many of whom have been with us for over ten years.

Being tremendous animal lovers, we all share the same belief that we can and we will make a difference, one animal at a time. We know that this is not an easy task ahead, but there are many people and groups that will whole-heartedly support our efforts in making this happen. And we are proud to have their encouragement.