Paws, whiskers and noses are being treated at Tears Animal Rescue after a devastating fire that killed one person and left 500 people displaced in Masiphumelele informal settlement last week.
Wendy Scheepers, marketing manager at Tears Animal Rescue, said up to 150 animals, including cats and dogs, are estimated to have been affected.
“Tears estimated that between 50 and 150 animals were affected by the recent fires in Masiphumelele. Most of the animals affected have been displaced, disoriented or lost while fleeing.
“Some animals have experienced injuries while running away.”
Scheepers added that injuries include deep gashes as well as “degloving” injuries.
“The Tears Veterinary Clinic has seen burnt noses, paw pads, and whiskers.
“We have also picked up a few pets that have experienced smoke inhalation, which can certainly be life threatening.”
The reality with fires though is that more injured animals are likely to be found for days and weeks after the fire has occurred, says Scheepers.
“Injured and distressed animals instinctually hide themselves away making our job more difficult.
“The earlier we can reach them, the better the prognosis, especially in terms of infection.”
Not all animals were fortunate to escape, however, as Tears Animal Rescue have discovered dead animals in the debris.
“During the clean-up of the rubble, sadly, bodies have been found. More deaths will result from injured animals who are hiding and we cannot find in time.”
READ | Around 500 people displaced, one dead, after tragic fire in Masiphumelele
The public can assist by donating at www.tears.org.za/donate and choosing Fire Disaster Relief or using FIRE as a reference.
“Our shelter will also be experiencing an influx of animals so we encourage supporters to adopt.”
Meanwhile, Ward 69 safety and security representative Jonathan Mills said around 140 structures were destroyed.
“Disaster management is now in Masi preparing their team to come to the site to make an official list of those affected.
“They estimate that between 120 and 140 structures were affected, which is over 500 people.”
The City’s fire and rescue services spokesperson Jermaine Carelse confirmed that one body was discovered in the debris after the blaze was extinguished on Monday morning.
“Kommetjie Road fire station’s crew was first on scene and confirmed numerous informal structures burning, fanned by a strong south-easterly wind, and called on more resources to help bring the blaze under control.”
Approximately 70 firefighters brought the fire under control and extinguished the flames at around 08:20.
“At this stage, one body was discovered with fatal burn wounds,” said Carelse.
Anyone who would like to donate can drop off items at Living Hope in Kommetjie Road.
