By CAMERON LUCADOU-WELLS
FIRE has gutted a veterinary clinic at the Australian Animal Protection Society in Keysborough.
The not-for-profit animal shelter in Homeleigh Road suffered about $250,000 damage, including the loss of medicines, stock and equipment such as X-ray and anaesthetic machines. No animals were injured in the blaze, which started early on March 29.
Detective Acting Sergeant Rick Mokos of Greater Dandenong crime investigation unit said if not for an early call from a security patrol, the fire could have spread to outbuildings containing animals. Police are still investigating the blaze.
Treasurer Christine Giles said the shelter was trying to “carry on as best we can” as it sought portables to temporarily house its vets.
She said that in the interim, vets were hampered in their efforts to treat the shelter’s animals. The shelter had also lost a critical source of funds from its vet clinic.
“We’re very grateful there were no animals in the clinic and it didn’t spread to the animals’ [quarters]. That’s more important than money,” Ms Giles said.
The shelter had beforehand planned a working bee for April 22 from 10am. To register, go to aaps.org.au.
Anyone with information on the fire can call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or Detective Rick Mokos on 9767 7487.
