After 'Worst Nightmare' Of Fire, PAWS Tinley Park Closed For A Month

TINLEY PARK, IL — PAWS Tinley Park will remain closed for what's estimated to be a month, following a fire in the building's laundry room Wednesday, officials said Thursday.

Damage caused by the fire is more extensive than initially thought, officials shared on social media.

"Yesterday was a rough day," staff wrote. "We learned that the repairs to get our shelter back open will be much harder than first imagined. The fire not only destroyed our laundry room, but the vents, ceilings, hvac, and walls of our entire shelter will be added onto this project."

Staff went on to say that the 55 cats and 42 dogs rescued from the fire are doing well, with some still hospitalized at Midwest Animal Hospital in Orland Park.

"A few of our cats have had setbacks, but we expect everyone to make a full recovery," staff wrote.

Tinley Park firefighters were called to a fire at the animal shelter, 8301 W 191st St., at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, said Village Manager Pat Carr. The fire originated in the shelter's dryer, Tinley Park Fire Chief Klotz said, and was extinguished within 5 to 10 minutes of firefighters arriving on the scene.

Shelter volunteers, staff and firefighters worked together to contain individual animals and evacuate them from the building Klotz said. Staff from Midwest Animal Hospital of Orland Park were there to transport the animals for evaluation, Klotz said.

South Suburban Humane Society in Matteson has stepped in to help, agreeing to accommodate its usual stray intakes while PAWS Tinley Park is closed for repairs. South Suburban Humane Society is located at 21800 S. Central Ave., Matteson and is open from noon to 7 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays and Mondays; and noon to 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Residents who find strays outside of Matteson shelter's normal hours of operation are encouraged to call the Tinley Park Police Department’s non-emergency number at (708) 444-5300. SSHS can also be reached at (708) 755-7387.

"Despite the last 36 hours being our worst nightmare, the way this community has been pulling together for us is truly heartwarming," staff wrote on social media. "Our volunteers are so dedicated, they want to do anything and everything they can to help.

"... We are so honored to be a part of this community, and your generosity is bringing a smile to our face when we want to break down and cry. We will get through this.

"Even after the worst storms, the sun will shine again."

Staff went on to say the shelter is not currently in need of any additional towels or blankets, as they do not have adequate story. The shelter will remain closed as the facility is cleaned and necessary repairs made. Those looking to support the shelter are encouraged to make monetary donations to help pay for vet bills, a new dryer and repairs.