A second chance up in smoke

AUSTIN (KXAN) - Second Chance Animal Shelter workers are cleaning up and rebuilding after a deadly fire kills 99 kittens and 12 small dogs early Sunday morning. The cause of the fire is still under investigation, but shelter workers believe it was electrical.

"Oh just devastating," said Elke Miller, a volunteer.

The no-kill animal shelter is a temporary home for 300 dogs and cats, waiting for a good family.

"Dogs and cats already don't have a home, and to be exposed to that type of tragedy is just terrible," said Miller.

Early Sunday morning, flames tore through the front of the shelter. Most of the animals there, trapped in their cages, died of smoke inhalation. The shelter had to euthanize some of the animals due to their injuries.

"I don't even want to think about it," said Miller. "The panic they felt..."

Shelter workers are also having a tough time believing what has happened.

"It's hard to walk in and not see what I usually do everyday," said Holly Gora, assistant manager. "It's hard."

Britta Stevens has worked with the shelter for more than a year and developed a special bond with the animals.

"They always make fun of me, because it would take me so long to clean, because I have to cuddle with everybody in between," said Stevens.

For Stevens, visual reminders of those who died are everywhere.

"You walk around and see toys or beds, and you remember who was laying in it, so it's very rough," said Stevens.

But there are several miracles.

Jennifer is a Chihuahua mix. Shelter workers are calling her a "little survivor." She was also trapped in the smoky, burning shelter, but managed to make it out alive. Three weeks ago, she was brought to the shelter after animal control rescued her from an abusive home.

Meanwhile, the community is stepping in with an outpouring of donations. More than 100 people volunteers are lending a helping hand. They are working hard to rebuild the shelter for the animals who are still alive.

"We have to be strong and take care of the ones we still have," said Stevens.

To donate or volunteer at the shelter, e-mail George Grammas or call (254) 458-3583.