Rescuers ramp up efforts to help cats at Medford sanctuary
Rescuers spent the day helping and treating cats that survived a devastating house fire in Medford.
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Happy Cat Sanctuary in Medford meant everything to Chris Arsenault, his friends said.
Arsenault and some of his beloved cats perished in a morning house fire at his home, which doubled as the sanctuary.
Rescuers believe around 100 cats died, with 200 surviving.
“The official cause will be listed as undetermined, can’t rule out the propane fed space heaters in the area of origin," said Town Chief Fire Marshal Chris Mehrman Brookhaven.
SCPD Arson says the cause of the fire is still under investigation.
A flood of people - including rescuers and well-wishers bringing supplies - went to the sanctuary Tuesday to help.
Rescuers included veterinarian Dr. Carol Roshkind, who drove two hours to treat the cats for burns in a mobile unit outside the sanctuary.
Lisa Jaeger, board member of Happy Cat Sanctuary, said they were securing the area and making sure all the cats had food and water.
She said they’re setting up a warehouse for the cats, and it will likely take two weeks to get them there.
The ultimate goal, she said, is to keep them on Long Island, because this is their home.
Dozens of cats are believed to still be loose in the neighborhood.
