Twelve cats and six dogs rescued from blaze by firefighters

Blossom, Beauty and Sultan were three of the cats rescued by firefighters (Pictures: RSPCA)

Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus rescued 12 cats and 6 dogs from a blaze this Monday evening (18 September) at the RSPCA Putney Animal Hospital on Clarendon Drive. The fire took hold at 5.41pm and was brought under control less than an hour later.

The fire started inside a tumble dryer in a laundry room and the Brigade’s fire investigators believe the blaze was caused by towels with oils on them self-combusting. A small part of the laundry room was damaged by fire and the remainder of the hospital was unaffected by the blaze.

Approximately 10 members of staff left the property before the arrival of the Brigade. Thankfully none of the animals, who were checked over by a vet on-site, or staff members were injured. Two fire engines from Fulham and Hammersmith fire stations attended the scene.

Putney Animal Hospital

Caroline Allen, London Veterinary Director for the RSPCA, said, “We are so grateful for the swift response of the London Fire Brigade (LFB) in responding to our call after a small fire started in a tumble drier in our laundry room.

“Thanks to the quick action of our staff and the action of the LFB, the fire was contained and all the staff and animals were kept safe. The fire crew were so kind and helped us ensure the animals were safe and once the fire was out assisted in moving some who could have been affected by smoke.

“Most of the patients in with us are animals who have been rescued by our Inspectorate and are undergoing treatment for a variety of injuries and illnesses, so they really were down on their luck before they were brought into us. We are so glad they are safe and once their treatment is complete they will go on to be rehomed. We are happy to report that the hospital is operating as normal today.”

Putney Animal Hospital are asking for donations of clean, dry towels and would be grateful to anyone who are able to take them to the hospital this week.

September 20, 2017