As firefighters worked overnight to find survivors in Hong Kong’s flaming Wang Fuk Court towers, another group of volunteers focused on saving the estate’s pets.
Dozens of workers from local animal welfare groups brought oxygenated pet carriers and animal ambulances to search the flats. Social media showed elderly residents weeping for pets left behind while escaping the fire.
Animal welfare workers coordinated with police to move through security cordons, allowing them closer access as the blaze continued.
“Pet owners contacted our alliance and we compiled a list of more than 100 cases,” said Anson Cheng from Hong Kong Guardians. “We shared the cases with firefighters so they can help check the flats and pick up the pets if they see them.”
By Thursday morning, at least 10 cats, seven dogs, and several turtles had been rescued.
Cheng noted that Hong Kong’s system of micro-chipping pets made it possible for some animals to be reunited with their owners after the fire. Owners whose pets survived could soon be notified through the microchips, providing hope amid the tragedy.
Animal rescue teams have remained on-site as authorities continue firefighting and recovery operations. Volunteers emphasized the importance of including pets in emergency plans, highlighting how many residents risked their lives and property to save their animals.
The Wang Fuk Court fire has claimed 44 lives and left hundreds missing, but the efforts to rescue pets underscore the human-animal bond in the densely populated Hong Kong community.
