Dozens of cats were likely killed in a fire at the Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando location on Conroy Road late Wednesday, officials said.
About 25 dogs were inside the shelter at the time, and all got out safe, officials said.
Orange County Fire Rescue around 10:20 p.m. responded to the fire at the 5,000 square-foot building, which was 50% involved in flames, spokeswoman Lisa McDonald said.
Flames could be seen through the roof of the building.
Pet Alliance Executive Director Steve Bardy said there were about 35 cats in the shelter at the time and that “probably 20 to 30 cats” were killed in the fire.
About 10 cats had been rescued as of 12:30 a.m.
Bardy said the fire appeared to have started in the front of the building, which is adjacent to the cat area.
The surviving pets will be moved to the Sanford location, according to Bardy.
He said there were many rescues from Hurricane Ida in the building at the time of the fire.
About 50% of the pet alliance’s animals are in foster care, Bardy said.
The pet alliance recently announced that the same location will be closing its clinic this month.
Firefighters were still putting out hotspots past 12:30 a.m., McDonald said.
