Four Dogs Die After Afternoon Blaze at Sussex County Animal Rescue Facility

Four dogs died in a Sussex County animal shelter fire on a peaceful afternoon. Several county groups responded.

One Step Closer Animal Rescue in Hopatcong caught fire Wednesday, according to authorities. Firefighters were summoned to the shelter at 3:38 p.m. for yard flames.Atcong police, fire, and EMS arrived swiftly. Cops said the fire started in the stables. About 40 dogs were rescued then.

By Wednesday evening, officials reported four canines dead within the facility. The living animals were located, but officials have not disclosed their status.

The fire’s cause is unknown. Officials will investigate the fire’s cause and whether it spread.

Animal shelters help abandoned, rescued, or helpless animals. These examples demonstrate the need of fire safety in animal care facilities, especially those with many cages and small rooms.

The local government hasn’t addressed personnel or first responder harm. As the probe continues, more information may emerge.

Rescue group supporters and others are outraged over what happened. While investigating, officials want to save the animals and prevent future calamities.