EATONTOWN, N.J. — A dryer fire broke out Thursday in the laundry room of the Monmouth County SPCA, prompting a swift evacuation of staff and animals, according to shelter officials. Emergency response teams from Eatontown and Wannamassa quickly contained the blaze, and no injuries were reported.
“All personnel were evacuated, and animals are being evacuated and medically evaluated by our veterinary staff,” the SPCA stated in a social media post. “Our animals and staff are shaken up, but everyone is okay.”
The fire, which occurred at the shelter’s headquarters in Eatontown, led to the temporary closure of the facility until officials could assess and ensure the safety of the building. Shelter personnel praised the prompt response of emergency crews and expressed gratitude for the quick actions taken by staff and volunteers.
By Friday morning, all animals had been safely returned to the shelter, and normal operations had resumed. “We are happy to say we will be open normal operating hours today,” the SPCA shared, adding that the pets were “settled now and ready to find their forever homes.”
The shelter expressed appreciation for the community’s support, noting that many people had reached out with offers of help following the incident. “The outpouring of support is truly humbling and we can’t thank everyone enough,” officials stated.
The cause of the dryer fire remains under investigation, but the shelter confirmed that it will continue to monitor the situation and update the public if further needs arise.