Pets killed in Sulafa Tower fire

Dubai: More than two pets were confirmed dead and some injured in Wednesday’s Sulafa Tower fire in Dubai Marina.

At least a dozen fire engines and more than 50 firefighters from five centres across Dubai put out the blaze in the 75-storey residential tower where the fire started at 2.30pm.

While residents were injured in the fire, pets including cats and dogs were reported dead, while others were taken to veterinary centres for treatment.

Pet owner and resident at the building Gerard Hatfield from New Zealand said his roommate was able to rescue their two cats from their apartment on the 65th floor shortly after the fire was controlled. “Both cats were very stressed and had to be taken to the vet because they suffered from inflamed lungs. We left them there overnight as the vet said it’s best to monitor them and give them oxygen as their condition could worsen and lead to spasms,” said Hatfield.

He confirmed that other pet owners were also trying to get into the building to rescue their pets. “We saw some pets [being brought down by] firemen, while other pet owners were told to register their pets with the police,” added Hatsfield. He confirmed that at least two pets in the building were reported dead.

The Umm Suqeim Veterinary Centre confirmed receiving injured pets from the fire, but could not disclose further information due to client confidentiality.

Pet owners across the country expressed their condolences on the Facebook group, ‘Feline Friends Dubai,’ under the group’s message that read: “We are very saddened to hear of the pets that died yesterday in the Sulafa Tower fire. RIP little ones. Our thoughts are with their human parents, our hearts are breaking for you. Hope all the ones that did make it out are recovering well and not too traumatised! Love and hugs.”

The group have also posted an urgent appeal, asking pet owners around the country to foster feline friends who have been displaced due to the fire.

Many residents, who have not been allowed back into their apartments due to ongoing investigations by the authorities, are temporarily staying with friends and family members, and are unable to house their pets.

For more information, please visit the Facebook group ‘Feline Friends Dubai.’