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JACKSONVILLE, FL -- Nearly 200 cats and dogs were trapped inside the Jacksonville Humane Society when it was destroyed by fire early Saturday morning.

More than 70 firefighters worked to knock down the flames and rescue the animals.

"The dogs led many of the firefighters to immediately begin pulling dogs out of the kennels left and right," said Tom Francis with the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department.

JFRD says a passerby on Beach Blvd. saw the flames from the street. JFRD has not determined a cause. However, they say the fire started near the laundry room. Damage estimates are in excess of $1 million.

One firefighter is being treated at Shands Gainesville for minor injuries.

"It’s just tragic," said Jacksonville Mayor John Peyton as he toured the rubble Saturday afternoon.

Firefighters were able to rescue many of the dogs, but JHS managers say several cats died in the fire. The surviving animals are being held at the JHS clinic, temporarily.

"They're being evaluated. As best we can tell, all of them are going to survive and be adoptable animals," said JHS Executive Director Leona Sheddan.

JHS says several people have inquired about adopting the displaced animals. They plan to hold an adopt-a-thon, Tuesday.

According to JHS, a capitol campaign has been in the works and this may be the time to kick it off.

"I think there's a moment here where this community can rally together, the city can partner and we can do something bigger and better than we've done before," said Mayor Peyton.

If you would like to donate, you can make a cash donation at any Wachovia Bank branch. The account number is 2000034081857.

JHS is also accepting cash donations sat its thrift shop at 8328 Beach Blvd. You can reach them at (904) 724-9200.


You can also donate online at [link]