Brandywine Valley SPCA New Castle Campus re-opens after fatal fire

The Brandywine Valley S.P.C.A. is re-opening the New Castle Campus on Wednesday for all services following the fire that destroyed the veterinary clinic and damaged the adoption areas.

A car crashed into the building early the morning of July 9, sparking a fire that took the life of the driver and four cats and displaced nearly 100 animals. Cleanup at the facility started immediately on the afternoon following the fire. Work crews have cleaned and repaired the adoption areas, where there are now dogs and cats available for adoption.

The clinic has been gutted, and rebuilding is expected to take up to two months. In the meantime, other parts of the facility have been temporarily equipped for spay/neuter surgeries and wellness visits. Regular opening hours are in effect starting on Wednesday.

• Adoptions:    Tuesday-Friday 12PM-7PM, Saturday-Sunday 10AM-5PM
• Wellness:      By appointment Tuesday 12PM-7PM, Wednesday 9AM-3PM
• S/N Surgery:  By appointment Tuesday-Friday

Adam Lamb, B.V.S.P.C.A. Chief Executive Officer says, "Our staff and vendors pushed all the limits to re-open as quickly as possible. The animals need us as a safe haven, and the incredible outpouring of support from the community underscored how vital our services are to the pet families in the area."

Nearly 100 animals were reportedly evacuated from the fire scene. Four cats lost their lives, and many of the surviving animals have since been placed with forever families. Several dogs and cats are available for adoption at the West Chester and Georgetown campuses.

Costs of the fire are still being totaled, many of which will not be covered by insurance. The B.V.S.P.C.A continues to ask for the public's help with donations to give money towards the rebuilding effort. Donations can be made here or by mailing checks to Brandywine Valley S.P.C.A., 600 South Street, New Castle, DE 19720.