Pet Meds

Jacksonville Humane Society Fire Updates 

  Below is an update on what is happening since the humane society deadly fire in Jacksonville, Florida. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How did the fire start?  The Fire Marshall’s final report is scheduled to be released soon.  The fire started in the laundry room, but the cause is still undetermined.

How much has been raised? As of Wednesday night, over $200,000 has been raised, but much more is needed.

How many animals survived the fire and how many perished?  80 animals survived the scene (68 dogs and puppies and 12 cats and kittens) plus another 25 that were in foster homes. Sadly, 85 perished (67 cats and kittens and 18 dogs and puppies).

Q: When will we be open for adoptions?
A: We will be open for adoptions on Monday, April 16th. 

Q: When will start accepting animals in Animal Admissions?
A:   Animal admissions will resume in several weeks.

Q: What can I do to help?
A: We need cash donations and checks.  Donations can be made at the Jacksonville Humane Society Thrift Store at the Jacksonville Humane Society (8464 Beach Blvd.), or at any Wachovia Branch bank branch.Q: What else can I do?
A:   We will be updating our website with an updated Wish List very soon.

Q: What will become of the building?
A: The dog and isolation kennels are and will continue to be used to help with our homeless animals.  The rest of the building has been condemned.

Q: Is there going to be a memorial service?
A: Yes, a public memorial service will be held Saturday, April 21st at 11:30am at the Jacksonville Humane Society Pet Cemetary.

Q: How much money has been raised?
A: As of Wednesday night, April 11, over $200,000 has been raised, but much more is needed.

Q: Why wasn’t our building equipped with a sprinkler system? 
A: Since 1885, we have gone far and above the necessary requirements for permits.  The fire was something that was totally unexpected and something we have never experienced.  We will use this as a learning experience and as we go forward, clearly the safety of our staff and the animals will be of utmost importance.

Jacksonville Humane Society Fire Updates 

Jacksonville Humane Society Deadly Fire

There was a deadly fire at the humane society here in Jacksonville on April 7, 2007.  This was the no-kill shelter that we adopted our beloved dog “Bear” from.  I can’t even imagine the horror that the firemen must have gone through while trying to save as many animals as they could.  Below is an article with details about this tragedy.  Can you help?

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JACKSONVILLE, FL — Nearly 200 cats and dogs were trapped inside the Jacksonville Humane Society when it was destroyed by fire early Saturday morning.

More than 70 firefighters worked to knock down the flames and rescue the animals.

“The dogs led many of the firefighters to immediately begin pulling dogs out of the kennels left and right,” said Tom Francis with the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department.

JFRD says a passerby on Beach Blvd. saw the flames from the street. JFRD has not determined a cause. However, they say the fire started near the laundry room. Damage estimates are in excess of $1 million.

One firefighter is being treated at Shands Gainesville for minor injuries.

“It’s just tragic,” said Jacksonville Mayor John Peyton as he toured the rubble Saturday afternoon.

Firefighters were able to rescue many of the dogs, but JHS managers say several cats died in the fire. The surviving animals are being held at the JHS clinic, temporarily.

“They’re being evaluated. As best we can tell, all of them are going to survive and be adoptable animals,” said JHS Executive Director Leona Sheddan.

JHS says several people have inquired about adopting the displaced animals. They plan to hold an adopt-a-thon, Tuesday.

According to JHS, a capitol campaign has been in the works and this may be the time to kick it off.

“I think there’s a moment here where this community can rally together, the city can partner and we can do something bigger and better than we’ve done before,” said Mayor Peyton.

If you would like to donate, you can make a cash donation at any Wachovia Bank branch. The account number is 2000034081857.

JHS is also accepting cash donations sat its thrift shop at 8328 Beach Blvd. You can reach them at (904) 724-9200.

Edited by  Victor Blackwell, Reporter/Anchor

Jacksonville Humane Society Deadly Fire