
A Champion for Animals at PebbleCreek

Jim Ellison, a familiar face to PebbleCreek residents, is a champion for animals and the dedicated president of the Pet Companions Club. Alongside his wife, Marge, he is renowned for his unwavering commitment to animal welfare. The couple brought their extensive experience in dog rescue to PebbleCreek when they moved from Chicago.
Marge, a longtime volunteer with the Pet Companions Club, served as the club’s vice president. After Jim retired from a successful aviation career, he joined the club and quickly became a driving force, further strengthening their commitment to the cause.
Jim recently shared his passion for animal welfare and his experiences with the Pet Companions Club on the PebbleCreek Voices podcast, as part of their interview series.
A Lifetime of Service
Jim Ellison, a second or third-generation Scandinavian immigrant, was born in Burbank, California, in 1942. His father served in the Army during World War II, and Jim spent his early years living on his grandfather’s farm in Minnesota. He was the oldest of nine children.
After graduating from the University of Minnesota, Ellison joined the Navy and served as a fighter pilot, flying combat missions in Vietnam. He later worked for Douglas Aircraft Company and several airlines, accumulating over 26,000 hours of flight time. Ellison retired from flying in 1999.
A Passion for Rescue
Jim’s involvement in dog rescue began with his own personal experience as a dog owner. They lost their beloved dachshund, Baron, to a debilitating illness. This loss ignited their deep affection for the breed. Their search for another dachshund led them to adopt two inseparable dachshunds, Boogie and Mouse.
Ellison and his wife’s dedication to rescuing dachshunds grew, and they soon became involved with the Naperville Humane Society. Their volunteer work included walking dogs, cleaning kennels, and socializing the animals. Inspired by their experiences, a group of six individuals, including Ellison, joined forces to establish Adopt Animals Deserving of Proper Treatment (Adopt), a foster-based dog rescue organization.
Increasing Awareness
As a key member of Adopt, Jim Ellison tirelessly worked to rescue dogs from local shelters and foster them in his own home. He personally drove to pick up dogs from various locations, ensuring they were placed in loving foster homes. Additionally, Adopt actively sought out dogs from other shelters and communities in need. Ellison’s leadership was instrumental in promoting the organization through partnerships with local shelters, veterinary hospitals, and television stations. Jim’s unwavering commitment to animal welfare helped countless dogs find loving homes in the Chicago area.
A Champion for Animals at PebbleCreek
After moving to Arizona, the Ellisons continued their dedication to animal welfare. They volunteered at Sun Valley Animal Rescue and fostered dogs for the Arizona Humane Society’s Sunny Slope facility, specializing in puppies.
In 1997, the Pet Companions Club was founded by a PebbleCreek resident, Jackie Boliaux. Jim and Marge joined the club, with Marge serving as vice president. After Jim retired, he became more deeply involved, taking on the role of treasurer and focusing on fundraising efforts.
Through Jim’s leadership, the club successfully became a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, enabling them to accept tax-deductible donations and provide essential veterinary care for rescued animals.
A Legacy of Compassion
Jim and Marge’s contributions to the Pet Companions Club are truly inspiring. They are a champion for animals at PebbleCreek. Their unwavering dedication to animal welfare has transformed the club into a treasured asset in the community. They have helped countless animals find loving homes and have left an indelible mark on the lives of many.
Hear Jim’s Story Today!
To hear Jim Ellison’s full interview and learn more about the Pet Companions Club, visit the PebbleCreek Voices website. Enjoy!
Contributions by Jack Miller
About PebbleCreek
PebbleCreek is a master-planned community nestled in the scenic West Valley of Arizona. Our vibrant community offers a wide range of amenities, including championship golf courses, a state-of-the-art fitness center, a spa, and a variety of social clubs and activities.
If you’re looking for a place to retire or simply enjoy a more relaxed lifestyle, PebbleCreek is the perfect choice. We invite you to contact us today or visit our sales office to learn more about our community and our new homes for sale.