SPCA of Western Quebec in ‘temporary’ digs after fire

An Aylmer animal shelter has moved around the corner from its former home which was destroyed in a fire that killed more than 70 animals last month.

Carole Wright of the SPCA of Western Quebec confirmed via email Thursday that the organization was in the process of setting up 1658 Pink Rd. as a “temporary ” shelter.

Asked if there were plans to rebuild, Wright said she had no further information to share.

The shelter doesn’t yet have working phone lines. Nor are volunteers and staff organizing fundraising beyond the donations they rely on because “there are just not enough hours in the day,” Wright said.

The shelter on Auguste Mondoux Street was destroyed in the July 2 blaze. Firefighters were able to save six dogs that were in the care of the 30-year-old, volunteerrun “no kill” shelter, which is not affiliated with other SPCAs.

“There are simply no words to describe our incredible loss and sadness,” the shelter said after the fire in a statement seeking donations to help it continue caring for animals and “eventually to rebuild our shelter.”

Several people driving in the area called 911 that night after spotting flames leaping from the building, but when the first fire crews arrived, the roof was engulfed in flames.

There are simply no words to describe our incredible loss and sadness.

Firefighters raced inside and did a “primary search” for animals but had to flee as the flames spread rapidly and the building began to collapse.

The building was ultimately torn down.

Damage was estimated at $580,000. The cause was under investigation but was not believed to have been criminal in nature, the fire department reported at the time.

The facility has a number of animals ready for adoption at its website.