Animal rescue groups from across the province have come together in Lethbridge after a house fire destroyed a local animal shelter.
Last Chance Cat Ranch was one of the largest cat rescue operations in the city.
The surviving cats are being cared for at a local pet hospital. The owner of the home is devastated by the loss of both her home and her animals.
“All I care about is the cats. I know the ones that went, the ones that used to sleep with me at night, the ones that were so horribly abused and then they came into rescue and they were loved,” says Elizabeth Ginn, who operated Last Chance Cat Ranch.
Over 60 cats in her care fell victim to a fire Tuesday afternoon.
Ginn operated Last Chance Cat Ranch out of her home, taking in animals that had been left to fend for themselves.
“These were all cats that people had abandoned that we took into rescue,” says Ginn.
Elizabeth’s son was home at the time of the fire and was able to get out half of the cats and all four of their dogs.
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However some of the surviving cats are in critical condition at a local vet clinic.
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“Seven or eight of them are more critical that we are watching very closely. They have swollen eyes, burned paws, repertory issues and burns on their faces,” says Family Pet Hospital veterinarian, Kate Lupton.
Elizabeth’s son was treated for smoke inhalation along with one firefighter.
It’s still not known how the fire started.
“We have narrowed down the area of origin which we believe is in the attic and we are still investigating what we think may have caused the fire,” says Lethbridge Fire Chief Brian Cornforth.
Many of the cats were over the age of 16 with health problems.
“Over 30 have perished in the home. This is the fate of the old ones that couldn’t get out,” says Ginn.
As word spread of the tragedy, fellow animal rescue groups came together to express their support.
“Our animals are our family. They are the voiceless and we just want be there to help them so we all try rally around each other when tragedy strikes,” says NOKA volunteer Jane Nygaard.
“All I can say to people is cherish your pets, look after your cats and don’t abandon them,” says Ginn.
The search continues for possible survivors- however those who managed to make it out-there is hope.
“I think they are going to make it through,” says Lupton.
A fund has been set up for donations to go towards the expense of animal care for the Last Chance Cat Ranch.
To donate you can call the Family Pet Hospital at 403 320 5200.
The 30 cats currently being treated will need to find homes.
The city says they are willing to do what they can to provide care for each cat.
If you find a cat you believe may have been in the fire- they are asking you to take it to the family pet hospital.
Local Canadian Red Cross official’s assisted four adults and four children affected by the fire.
The Red Cross is providing those affected with emergency food, accommodation and medication for the next 72 hours.
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