Search underway for 16 cats missing after major fire devastates Norwegian town

Dyrebeskyttelsen Norge, an animal welfare organization, is actively searching for 16 cats that have been reported missing following a significant fire in Krokstadelva, Drammen. Lily Auliff, an organizational veterinarian with Dyrebeskyttelsen Norge, confirmed that these 16 cats are known to the organization, with owners providing photos and descriptions.

The fire, which occurred over the weekend, is described as the largest of its kind in modern Norwegian history. It led to the evacuation of around 400 individuals, and tragically, at least 121 homes were reduced to ashes, according to a survey by Drammens Tidende.

While the search for missing cats continues, the organization has noted that all dogs are believed to have been safely evacuated. Owners may have taken them during the evacuation, or neighbors might have assisted. Dyrebeskyttelsen Norge has established a help center and is accepting donations to provide necessary supplies such as cages, food, cat litter, and other equipment for the affected animals.

Auliff expressed the rewarding nature of reuniting cats with their owners but also conveyed a desire to do more and expedite the process, acknowledging that it requires time and patience. Importantly, despite the extensive property damage and missing pets, no human lives are reported missing. However, the police are investigating whether anyone was present in the residences when the fire broke out and have urged the public to report any individuals who have not been accounted for.

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Vi tror alle hundene ble tatt ut da folk evakuerte, enten at eierne tok dem med selv, eller at naboer har tatt dem med.