**DEVASTATING FIRE AT FOR THE LOVE OF PAWS SENIOR PET SANCTUARY**

Early this morning our worst nightmare became reality.

For The Love Of Paws Senior Pet Sanctuary suffered a devastating fire that completely destroyed both of our cat cottages, known as **Cat Barn 1 and Cat Barn 2**. We woke in the early morning hours to popping sounds and within moments both buildings were engulfed in flames.

There were **14 cats housed in the two cottages**. In an act of incredible bravery, **Ted Pankiewicz Jr. and his son Ryder rushed into the burning buildings and were able to rescue four of the cats** before the fire overtook the structures.

During the rescue, one of the cats, **Soc’s**, jumped into Ted Jr.’s arms while burning. Ted Jr. suffered **second-degree burns to both arms**, but Soc’s survived and is currently at the veterinarian along with the other three rescued cats.

At this time:

• **4 cats have been rescued and are receiving care**

• **10 cats are unaccounted for**

• **Our sanctuary tortoise has not yet been found**

• The **Fire Department believes the cause may be an electrical issue related to an A/C unit** and a fire investigator is currently on scene.

We are **shocked and heartbroken beyond words**.

For The Love Of Paws was founded in **2014** to ensure that pets of senior citizens would always have a safe place when their owners could no longer care for them. Through our programs we have helped thousands by providing sanctuary for beloved pets, paying veterinary bills for seniors and veterans, and delivering over **12,000 pounds of free pet food every month through our Paws Meals on Wheels program**.

Today our sanctuary has suffered an unimaginable loss.

But **we will rebuild** — and we will do it with the support of our incredible community.

Please keep our team, the rescued cats, and the animals we lost in your thoughts.

Updates will follow as we learn more.

❤️

**For The Love Of Paws Senior Pet Sanctuary**

www.pawspetsanctuary.org