Several cats perished in a suspicious fire that tore through the Hawkesbury Companion Animal Shelter in Sydney's northwest. Emergency services were alerted to the blaze in Mulgrave around 5:30 a.m. on Monday.
Dozens of firefighters worked to extinguish the fire, but were unable to save two mother cats and their kittens who were housed in the office area, which was destroyed. A passing motorist successfully rescued several dogs from the building, and other dogs housed in kennels adjacent to the shelter were also saved.
The exact number of animals lost has not yet been confirmed. Police are treating the fire as suspicious and have launched an investigation into its origin. The shelter announced it would remain closed on Tuesday.
"The shelter has extensive damage to the administration areas. Staff are currently making an assessment of the facility with animal welfare the priority," a statement from Hawkesbury Council read. "We are deeply saddened to inform the community that some cats and kittens were lost during the fire, all other animals are okay."
The shelter expressed its grief on social media, stating, "Sadly, we have lost two mumma cats and their kittens in this tragic event. Our hearts are broken by this loss." The statement added that staff are continuing to care for the remaining animals, providing extra attention during this difficult period. The shelter is currently unable to accept donations.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the fire to contact Crime Stoppers.