New Westminster – New Westminster Animal Services are actively working with New Westminster Fire and Rescue Service (NWFRS) to locate and rescue displaced cats. Since the fire, two cats have been safely reunited with their owners, and the City has received reports of additional cats in the area. While the site remains restricted for staff and crews due to hazardous conditions, the security fencing does not prevent cats from moving in and out, so rescue efforts are currently focused on the vicinity of the site and the surrounding neighbourhood.

"We know residents are anxious to see searches take place, and we share that urgency," said Deputy Fire Chief Jeff Gill. " We know how important these cats are to the people who love them, and our hearts go out to everyone still waiting for answers. Right now, however, the condition of the site simply does not allow anyone to enter. Our responsibility is to ensure everyone's safety, and that means waiting until the hazards can be addressed before any additional work can take place."

The security fencing surrounding the site is intended to keep people out, but it does not restrict cats from moving freely in and out of the area. Based on confirmed sightings, Animal Services believes some displaced cats may be travelling between the site and nearby neighbourhoods. Animal Services is conducting regular patrols of the area to locate displaced cats. Feeding stations have been established nearby, and Animal Services is working with NWFRS and the Vancouver Orphan Kitten Rescue Association (VOKRA) to deploy trail cameras, humane traps, and sheltered crates to help locate and safely recover cats that may be returning to the property.

"We know how difficult it is to wait for news about a missing pet," said Kathryn Holm, Acting Director of Engineering and Public Works. "Our Animal Services officers remain dedicated to reuniting displaced cats with their families and are working closely with crews and community partners in this ongoing effort. Cats are incredibly resilient and often return to places that are familiar to them. Every report we receive helps build a clearer picture of where these cats are moving and helps focus our response."

The fire site remains unstable and contains hazardous materials and other significant safety risks. While the City understands many residents want to search for their cats themselves, it is currently unsafe for anyone to enter the property. Work to stabilize the structure is currently underway to prepare the site for any required investigations and the safe remediation of the property.

Reports of missing or located cats should be directed to New Westminster Animal Services at 604-519-2008. After-hours sightings near the fire site can be reported to the on-site security personnel, who will relay the information to Animal Services.

The City remains committed to doing everything possible to help reunite displaced cats with their families and requests the community's patience and understanding as this work continues under extremely challenging conditions.

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Media contact: 

Melissa Nilan
Communications Coordinator