Tragic Fire at Southside Animal Shelter

[lizbud]

I am so upset. I just heard on the local 11PM news
that there has been a horrible fire at Rosie's Shelter.
Many cats & dogs had been killed. Rosie was interviewed
on TV & said that one of her own dogs was also a victim
of the fire.She was crying & her hair was burned all
around her face. I've pm'd Mugsy. It was breaking news
so there is no link to the news report as of now. This is
truely heartbreaking.:( :( :(

[Karen]

Our prayers will be with everyone affected by this tragedy.

[mugsy]

I'm just a mess. I'm sitting here crying and shaking all at the same time. I just feel SO helpless. All of the animals are gone off the website. I checked her site everyday to celebrate the adoptions and that's where that cute little Bunny was and I'm terribly afraid that all the dogs that I felt a closeness to are gone. This is just gut wrenching.

[lizbud]

Huge prayer are certainly needed here Karen. Rosie was
able to save some of the kittens & momma kitties.They
showed them on TV.I think they said total damages were
over 200,000 dollars.Southside Animal Shelter is on Rosie's
own property & They said she lost everything. Her house
is adjacent to the shelter buildings. Such a tragic thing to
happen to Rosie & all the homeless animals they she has
helped over the years. Smokey is from this Shelter as is
Molly's dogs Max & Sammy. :( People in Indy think very
highly of this women and know of her selfless devotion to
helping animals that she rescues. :(

[mugsy]

Liz,

Were any of the dogs saved??

[sammi]

I just read this. I feel so sad. I will pray for something good to come out of this. Please update as you find out anymore information. This lady is going to need help to get back on her feet and she deserves it for all the wonderful animals she has helped.:( :( :( :(

[lizbud]

I found this link to the 1st story of the fire.

http://www.theindychannel.com/ind/news/stories/news-175774820021101-211153.html

If we feel this bad about this awful thing, just think what Rosie
must be going through.I feel so bad about this.
:(

[Fett]

:( :( :( No words can describe the sadness I feel. My thoughts and prayers go out to her.

~Kimmy

[Sudilar]

What a horrible tragedy!!! My prayers are with all. This is heartbreaking.

[moosmom]

What a horrible thing! I can't imagine what those precious animals went through being caged while fire raged all around them. My heart goes out to all of the surviving pets and to Rosie.

[iceyshiver21]

I put it on an email and sent it around as fast as i could....oh thats so sad.

[mugsy]

Rosie called today while I was out and she sounds totally defeated. She lost at her best guess 37 animals, most of them are cats. Her house was totally destroyed and she said she has nothing left. She told me that whatever the kids wanted to donate would be fine and the shelter needs bleach and blankets, etc. God I just feel so damn helpless. I guess she lost a couple of puppies too. I'll have to go back and listen to the message again. Do you think that we Pet Talkers could put something together for her?? I called back and left another message and offered for Mike and me to come down tomorrow to help with clean up and asked if she needed blankets, towels, sheets, or what exactly she needed. I also told her we could foster dogs if need be.

[lizbud]

I called the TV station off & on all day to ask for a
follow up report & to let them knowthat many people
care so much and want to help. The station switchboard
was busy every time I called. I called the number in the
link story and left a message for Rosie telling her I could
not take anymore cats(I have 7 now), but was very interested
in helping with a money donation to the Shelter & to please
provide an address where donations can be sent.I've heard
nothing back as yet. When I get a location to send funds,
I'll be sure to post it here. I've been praying all day that God
will bring some comfort to this wonderful lady. Liz.

[shais_mom]

This is so sad! I am so sorry to hear this.

[Karen]

Originally posted by mugsy
Do you think that we Pet Talkers could put something together for her??

Absolutely. Why don't you type up a clear list of what should be donated, and an address to send it to - should it be you or Liz so we can all do this together?

[trisha0503]

This is a very heartbreaking news... They will be in my prayers...
I'm also willing to donate... Just let us know what are the things that they need and where can we send it to... This is just so sad....:( :(

[sammi]

Originally posted by Karen


Absolutely. Why don't you type up a clear list of what should be donated, and an address to send it to - should it be you or Liz so we can all do this together?

Sounds like one way to try and help her. A list of items needed would be great also besides money. I will pray like all the rest of you that this women can cope with this terrible grief.

[anna_66]

I can't even imagine the hardship she's going through:( Anything we can do to help, just let us know
Anna

[lizbud]

Thank you from all the homeless cats & dogs of Indiana.

This story was in this mornings newspaper and has an
address where donations can be sent;

http://www.indystar.com/article.php?rosie03.html

It also mentions some of the things which are desparately
needed. The address is Southside Animal Shelter
P.O. Box 47436
Indianapolis, Ind 46247.

I seldom plead for a cause, but this lady is the Real Deal folks
as are the thousands of animals she has gotten in to forever
homes. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Liz.

[sammi]

Thanks for the information Liz. It sounded like she lost cats - and her poor dog. She does rescue for dogs also right?

[mugsy]

Yes, Mollie, she does rescue dogs and cats. The dogs are generally out in the kennels, so that may have been what saved them. If you want to see some of the animals she has her website is www.ssasi.org .

[gini]

Originally posted by lizbud
Thank you from all the homeless cats & dogs of Indiana.

This story was in this mornings newspaper and has an
address where donations can be sent;

http://www.indystar.com/article.php?rosie03.html

It also mentions some of the things which are desparately
needed. The address is Southside Animal Shelter
P.O. Box 47436
Indianapolis, Ind 46247.

I seldom plead for a cause, but this lady is the Real Deal folks
as are the thousands of animals she has gotten in to forever
homes. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Liz.

Liz, my check will go out in the mail tomorrow. This is such a tragedy! Gini

[lizbud]

My deepest thanks to anyone who can help Rosie overcome
this terrible tradgedy. The Shelter recieves no funds from the
city, Rosie & her volunteers do everything themselfs.All funds
donated are tax deductable. Southside Animal Shelter was
founded by Rosie and she serves as the Director. She goes
to other counties (outside Indy) as well as Animal Care &
Control here in Indianapolis. and pulls cats & dogs for adoption
from her no-kill Shelter. In the TV interview, Rosie said that
her dog Queenie who was 20 yrs. old, had been with her since
high school. She also lost her house & all her personal things.
She lost 10 of her own cats. This is a tremendous loss for
anyone, yet she goes on because of her love for the animals.

I'm sure she will be crying herself to sleep for a long time, yet
she goes on with her mission in life. I only wish I was half as
strong as Mrs. Rosie Ellis. She is a true hero for animals. Liz.

[TheAntiPam]

My check is on the way-

And I wrote most everyone I know via email to remember that end-of-the-year donation time is nearly here - and this would be an excellent way to share the holiday spirit.

(If the sad plight of the animals and Rosie doesn't get to them, perhaps an appeal to their tax deductions will !!! ;) )

[Rachel]

As if the world of animal rescue wasn't a sad one to begin with. What a tragic situation. Hopefully many who hear of this news will be inspired to send a donation.

[lizbud]

It's ironic but the Humane Society of the United States is
promoting Nov 3 thru Nov 9th as National Animal Shelter
Appreciation week. What better way to show your support
for animals then to help one with a great record of success
in overcoming all odds to help homeless & abandoned
cats & dogs.
If we can help in this rescue work by giving needed
items or money, I think we should consider ourselves
blessed to do so. When I look into the eyes of my little
Moki man, I have to think, a few months earlier, that could
have been him in that fire.Thank you all so very much. Liz.

[mugsy]

Liz,

I've been looking for updates on the IndyStar webpage, but can't find anything. I want you to know that I feel VERY special being mentioned in the article, albeit, indirectly. My kids at school don't know yet because I stayed home sick today. But I'll let them know tomorrow. I went to the webpage and all the cats and dogs that were there the other day are still there with some new ones added, so that bodes well I guess.

I think about her all the time.

[lizbud]

Molly,

Two TV stations that I know of are still sending crews out
for interviews and showing them on The evening news. Ch 6,
and channel 13, both had interviews with Rosie today. The
stations are giving out the P.O. Box number where donations
can be sent.(same one I gave in the last link). They were
emphasizing the fact that here is a women that had found
homes for so many animals & now found herself without a
home. Rosie looked O.K. in the coverage, she was walking
around the grounds & greeting several dogs that were there.
Hopefully, in a few months we may being seeing coverage
of the rebuilding process. I sincerely hope so. Liz.

[mugsy]

This is just so darn frustrating. I wish I could get Indy stations, but alas, I can't. So, it's your job to update me! lol I wish I lived closer. What does the property look like? From the picture in the newspaper it looked like the green building burned, but when she talked it sounded like the house...I'm confused. Is the grey barn still standing??

[Cincy'sMom]

I was out of town this weekend and missed this til just now. What a horrible tradgey. My prayers go out to Rosie and all the animals she cared for.

[lizbud]

All I saw om the night of the fire was the smoldering
ruins of buildings. Do you remember the building in the
back of Rosie's house where they had the washer & dryer
equipment? It was attached to the house. There was a
basketball hoop on the outside of the building. That building
housed cats & lots of carriers & supplies. I don't think it
was the bulding were you signed the paperwork, across
from the house. I wanted to stay out of the way while the
clean up operation is going on, but plan on going down there
next weekend to check it out & give Rosie my check. Liz.

P.S. Don't worry Molly, I'll be sure to pass on to you any
new developments. Prayers continue for Rosie & all the
animals in her care. Liz & Smokey

[DoggiesAreTheBest]

Oh my! How did I miss this?! I am so devistated to hear about this tragic news.

[cottoncandy]

ok i live in indiana and i have no clue what shelter you were talking about.....anyways i might be able to shelter a dog like a cocker spaniel or something thanks c-ya!

P.S. Is mugsy her sister or something?

[mugsy]

No candy, I live in Fort Wayne and Rosie runs the only no kill shelter in Marion County (Indianapolis) and we got 2 of our dogs from her. I'm no relation to Rosie, although I admire her more than anyone could know (except maybe Liz since she's also seen her work:) )

[mugsy]

A piece of good news....a guy from a local pet store called here yesterday and offered a bunch of stuff (that he hasn't received yet) to us to take to the SPCA and Mike told him we were no longer affiliated with them and told them about Rosie and he said great give it to her, so when it gets here (and I guess it's a barrell full, literally) I can go pick it up.

[NoahsMommy]

That is wonderful Mugsy!!!

Are many people helping Rosie?

[mugsy]

According to this thread at least a few Pet Talkers are and I'm sure the Indianapolis community will rally around her. Like Liz said, she's quite popular down there.

[NoahsMommy]

Great! I've been thinking about her and those animals since last night. Do you know if she feeds a particular brand of dog/cat food? I'd like to send some her way.

[Cincy'sMom]

Originally posted by NoahsMommy


Are many people helping Rosie?

I told a friend about it at work today and we are both planning on sending $$ or something.

[mugsy]

You guys are too good. Maybe Liz could call her and find out. If she can't, I will.

[lizbud]

I received a letter from the Shelter today.

Dear Friends,

On Friday, Nov. 1, our shelter and director experienced a
tragedy. FIRE. We are so very sad to report that 40 babies
died and another 18 are in the care of a local veterinarian.
Many of our supplies were also destroyed.Along with the home
our director,Rosie.
We need your help.Medical coast are as yet unknown.If you
can help us with a cash donation in any amount, it will be used
to care for our animals.Cash donations should be mailed to
SSAS,P.O.Box 47436,Indianapolis, Ind.46247.
When our kitties are well enough to leave the vets, they will be
in need of foster care until totally well and ready for adoption.
We need foster homes. If you could take home to nurture and
love one of our babies,please call us at 317-788-9198.
Also distroyed in the fire were many of our pet supplies. We
know we need 15-20 carriers,medium size,along with cat/kitten
food.(wet or dry).Other needs are as of yet unknown.
Any finally, we need your prayers.There are many hearts to be
mended both human and animals.Please pray for Rosie and her
family as they rebuild their home and lives.
Thanks to the many people who stopped and rushed kitties to
the vet.Do know that you have saved lives.Special thanks to
the Perry Township Fire Dept. for their help in rescuing as many
babies as they could and their kindness and gentleness in
helping us with our babies who have gone to heaven.

Sincerely,
Southside Animal Shelter
(317) 882-4080
P.O. Box 47436
Indianapolis, In.46247

[cottoncandy]

Oh my! Y do i always have to read the sadest parts? hmm i dont really like kittens(no offense) but was there dogs? If so i can help any of them probably! And if it is ok ill make a lot of flyers only one thing! I have a lot of friends in indy so if i make flyers could ya post my name in the new shelter? thanks............



Oh man! I dont hardly have any ink darn! But i will try ill put one up ay wal-mart at least!

[mugsy]

My faith in the younger generation has been restored. I told my kids at school today (this was my first day back from being sick) what happened at Rosie's and there were some that were teary eyed. My second period class wanted the website. I told them I would make a run to Indy if we got enough needed supplies a week from Saturday (I have to transport Blackie again this Saturday). I hope they come through. I even had 2 of them in my 1st period class that said they may be able to donate crates since they are trying to get rid of ones that they have. I can't tell you how much I LOVE my classes this year! I just had to share with you guys.

[sammi]

Is this the right add to send donations?

The Southside Animal Shelter
P.O. Box 47436
Indianapolis, Ind 46247

Hope your class comes up with a good amount of donations.
What do you (Mugsy) & Liz think is best- money or donation of needed items?

[mugsy]

I would say money would be best.

[lizbud]

Sammi,

I would say whatever would be easier for you to send.
They really need both and would be very grateful for any
help they could get. Bless you heart & a huge THANKS to all
Pet Talkers who have expressed concern for the people &
animals at the Shelter. The gifts, donations & prayers are
surely appreciated. God bless you all. Liz.

[mugsy]

One of my students came up and asked today if the shelter would accept checks!!! YEAH!!! My kids are so great.

[lizbud]

Hi. Just a note to let everyone know that I went to
the Southside Shelter today and was pleasantly surprised.
I was told that there have been a steady stream of people
to volunteer helping clean up the Shelter grounds & also
people delivering crates & boxes of dog & cat food, blankets,
towels, etc. Yesterday was so packed with people, that the
Shelter staff ran out of "poop" bags to give the many folks
who brought their long ago adopted dogs with them to visit
Rosie's place. The Shelter is getting a great response from
everyone . I am so happy about that.Thanks again to all the
Pet Talkers who offered gifts or prayers. You're the best. :)

[mugsy]

Thanks Liz!! That lifts my spirits! I'll make sure and tell the kids tomorrow. I had one parent who wants to write a check and some kids have said they're going to bring stuff in. Hopefully, I'll have enough to make a trip down there next Saturday.

Thanks again for the update!

[ramanth]

Thanks for the update Liz. That is such wonderful news. :)

[ChewmonkeyBC]

Hi,
I want to donate...Iv been saving up my money to buy rats and at the moment I have about ten dollars and i want to donate it to the shelter........dog bowls,cat bowls,leashes,and cat&dog toys???
I would love to help out..iv seen more than one address for the shelter so can some one post the address again?

Thanks
-Kay



FCR:)

[Maddog]

Hey! I would love to help out too! Just let Kay know and me and her will come up with some ways to raise Money!

[lizbud]

I've repeated the address several times in different posts,
but I'll be happy to give it again. It's,

Southside Animal Shelter
P.O. Box 47436
Indianapolis, Indiana 46247

Every contribution helps the animals & no amount is to small.
Thank you very much. Liz.

[ChewmonkeyBC]

Ok...thanks....

-Kay


FCR:)

[mugsy]

Liz has there been any new news about the shelter?? I bought a case of bleach on Saturday to take down and my parents are donating a crate and one of my kids gave me $5 to donate. I'm going to get some rugs and blankets together. Would you please check with Rosie and see what else she needs?? Thanks!! I may come down on Saturday and if not sometime during Thanksgiving Break...just not the day after Thanksgiving...too many crazy shoppers on the road! lol

[lizbud]

Molly,

Bleach, rugs, blankets & things like that are items most
needed everyday, so I'm sure they will be put to good
use. I'll try to call the Shelter soon & find out whatever
else they might be needing most. Thanks to your folks &
also the kids for the helping hand. I really think that Rosie
is amazed that's the Shelter's plight has touched so many
people. I know people's generosity has touched her heart
and is an encouragement to continue with her work for the
homeless cats & dogs she tries so hard to give a better life.

Liz & Moki

[mugsy]

The guy I buy dog food from donated 2 20 pound bags of cat food, so add that to the list that I'll be bringing. Another one of the girls at school said she could probably get a crate too. I have to ask the other 2 and see if they can still bring theirs in. If things go well, I think I may bring the stuff down on Saturday. My friend Paula said she would get some stuff too. God I wish we could bring a whole van load of stuff down. If I can come down this weekend, would you like to ride down with us Liz??

[ChewmonkeyBC]

Me and Jess(Maddog) are comin up with a bake sale at her moms shop,then buy supplies with the money and send it.......Hopefully all goes well!!

-Kay:)


FCR:)

[lizbud]

Molly,

Sounds better & better !!! Keep it up and you will have
a van full. LOL.:D How about I meet you at the Shelter?
I could bring Moki. It would be his first trip back to his old
home. I only have one appointment on Sat. & I'll try to
make it as early as possible. What time would you guys be
coming down? I'll P.M. my phone number again to you can
let me know when you're in the area. O.K.? Let me know.Liz.

ChewmonkeyBC & Maddog,

I wish you great success with the bake sale. Neat idea !!!
Thanks for all your help & hard work. Liz & Moki. :)