The devastating fire that left three people dead and hundreds destitute at the Plastic View informal settlement at the weekend, has also claimed the lives of three animals.
The three lifeless dogs were found during a rescue operation by the Society for Animals in Distress (Said) in the early hours on Sunday.
The organisation’s spokesperson Marizda Kruger said three other animals were rescued from the fire.
“We were able to rescue two puppies and a young cat, which were transported to our small animal hospital in Midrand and were treated for smoke inhalation,” she said.
“The animals were surrendered to us by their owners because their homes burned down.”
Kruger said the rescue operation continued on Monday, where nine more homeless dogs were taken from the settlement and given shelter at the animal hospital.
These were animals that fled the flames two nights ago and had started returning to their homes which were damaged in the fire.
“The pets were walking around aimlessly among the rubble,” she said.
“We also took them in and some will be put up for adoption.
“Some of the dogs will be returned to owners.”
Kruger said the devastating impact of the fire on the people was evident leading their team to assist the relief efforts by sorting and packaging donated clothes for those left destitute.
Blankets and dog food was also handed out to the people at the settlement.
Kruger thanked all the donors who contributed to the rescue.
