APART from cats and dogs, two snakes, a turtle, fish, and a hamster were among the pets successfully rescued from the gas pipeline fire site in Putra Heights, Subang Jaya.
General Manager for the Selangor Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA), Kelvin Cheah, said 15 cats and three dogs were treated by his organisation with the help of various parties today alone, while two snakes were returned to their owner yesterday.
He said the operation to rescue and treat the animals was carried out with the cooperation of SPCA Selangor, the Stray Animal Association of Malaysia (SAFM), the Animal Kindness Coalition (AKC) and volunteer organisations.
"Animals that are successfully rescued with the help of the fire department, volunteers, or non-governmental organisations (NGOs) will be stabilised at the treatment center before being returned to their owners or sent to a veterinary clinic if necessary," he told Bernama here today.
Kelvin said that the Sri Maha Kaliamman Temple, which was previously a treatment centre for the victims, has now become a gathering place for affected animals to receive treatment before being transferred to other places like veterinary clinics or returned to their owners.
He said more than 100 reports of lost or trapped animals have been received, with rescue efforts focused on providing food, water, and emergency treatment.
Meanwhile, veterinary volunteer Dr. Ezrin Adriana, 27, also shared her experience on her first day of duty in treating the affected animals.
Dr. Ezrin, who works at The Vet Alley Animal Clinic, said that most of the cases received involve cats with serious injuries such as burn wounds, in addition to cases of trauma when the animals refuse to eat and suffer from dehydration.
"Although the facilities here are somewhat limited, we still strive to provide the best treatment. We provide additional fluids for dehydrated animals, clean burn wounds to prevent infection, and administer antibiotic and painkiller injections," he said.
He said that so far there have been no critical cases requiring immediate treatment outside the center, but several animals, including an elderly cat over 10 years old that has experienced trauma, may need to be referred to a veterinary clinic for further treatment.
Pet owners who still have pets trapped in the fire area can contact SPCA Selangor at 014-660-5312 or through their official Instagram.
Help is also available at the Sri Maha Kaliamman Temple. - April 3, 2025
