44 dogs killed in Upstate NY rescue shelter fire: “We are heartbroken”

Canton, NY – More than 40 dogs have died after a fire at a rescue shelter in upstate New York.

The Associated Press reports that a fire was reported early Thursday morning at the No Dogs Left Behind building at Maple Ridge Kennels in St. Lawrence County. The flames engulfed the building and killed all 44 animals inside before firefighters could rescue them, the canton fire department said.

“We are beyond saddened,” No Dogs Left Behind said in a statement. “We are heartbroken for these dogs. Each dog was a member of our family… tragically they are victims again. We have no words to express our grief.”

Kennel employees told WWNY that the loss was an “unimaginable tragedy.” A tribute is planned for the dogs.

No Dogs Left Behind is a sanctuary for dogs rescued from slaughterhouses, the Asian dog meat industry, and war-torn countries. The house-like building included kennels inside and a play area outside.

The cause of the fire is currently under investigation by St. Lawrence County officials. No firefighters or anyone else was injured in the fire.

According to WWNY, No Dogs Left Behind founder Jeffrey Beri is planning to rebuild. Donations are accepted at nodogsleftbehind.com.