Dog and cat adoptions are expected to restart today at the Jacksonville, Fla., Humane Society that was badly damaged in a fire that killed 67 cats on April 7.
Authorities believe the fire — which also killed 18 dogs — started in the shelter’s laundry area. A $1 million main building, which housed cats, puppies and exotic animals, was destroyed.
Most dogs escaped serious injury because the kennels are in the back, Executive Director Leona Sheddan said. Sheddan said the agency is looking at plans to repair the building and so far, $120,000 has been collected, not including credit card donations that have not been processed yet. Also, local contractors have volunteered to do some work for free.
A memorial service for the animals killed in the fire is planned for April 21. Animals that survived the blaze were temporarily placed elsewhere but began returning to the shelter April 11.
Anyone who wants to find out more about adopting an animal from the shelter or donate to the facility’s rebuilding can find more information at the Jacksonville Humane Society’s website.
http://www.jaxhumane.org.