Firefighters courageously save animals
April 12th, 2007 by admin
68 cats, 12 puppies, rabbits, ferrets and a bird died in a tragic fire that destroyed the Jacksonville Humane Society early Saturday morning. But it could have been worse. According to humane society staff on the scene, firefighters made an extraordinary effort to rescue animals. One firefighter, Jacksonville Fire Capt. Scott Dennis, who was opening cages and scooting dogs to safety, suffered burns when the building’s roof collapsed.
Jacksonville Fire and Rescue spokesman Tom Francis told the Florida Times-Union: “Our protection of life policy extends to all living creatures. It’s an emotional scene. When you have defenseless animals in danger, you see even the most seasoned veteran firefighter feel some melancholy.” Several animals were adopted by firefighters after the fire was extinguished.
Please contact Jacksonville Fire and Rescue and thank the firefighters for their courageous efforts to save animals.
Contact:
Dan Kleman, Interim Director, Jacksonville Fire and Rescue
E-mail: tfrancis@coj.net
Good news! On Monday, three days after the fire, one cat was found alive and in good health in the debris. Three dozen dogs who survived the fire are now available for adoption. Visit Jaxhumane.org for more information.