WESTLOCK – An early-morning Dec. 20 barn fire, believed to be caused by a heat lamp, claimed the lives of 17 animals at Ferne’s Acres Animal Sanctuary in Busby.
Rescue founder Terra MacLean said her husband smelled smoke when he was leaving for work around 5:30 a.m. shortly before he noticed the fire and called 911. The flame quickly consumed the barn, claiming two pigs, four goats, a flock of chickens and four ducks.
After spending most of her life as an animal enthusiast and working at different shelters, MacLean founded the rescue to take in animals that are deemed ‘hard to adopt’ with difficult medical or behavior needs.
“We gave a home to a lot of animals that didn’t have very many options,” said MacLean, choking back tears. “We will definitely rebuild. I can’t imagine our lives without these animals in them.”
MacLean said the community has come together to support them through donations and kind words, although more donations are needed to get the rescue back on its feet.
“It’s been so heartwarming,” said MacLean. “There’s so many messages of love and support.”
When Westlock County firefighters arrived on scene the building had already collapsed and the fire was partially extinguished.
With sights now set on rebuilding, the rescue is in need of donations.
As the barn contained many of the rescue's essential items, including blankets, straw and cages, MacLean said they need to replace almost everything they had.
A full list of items needed can be found on fernesacres.ca/donate and updates regarding the situation can be found on the rescue's Facebook page.
