UPDATE: Six dogs dead after fire destroys Sussex County animal rescue shelter
HOPATCONG BOROUGH, N.J. (Sussex County) — Three dogs died Wednesday after a fire tore through an animal rescue shelter in Hopatcong, displacing dozens of other animals and leaving the building uninhabitable, according to the organization.
One Step Closer Animal Rescue (OSCAR), located at 155 Stanhope Road, said the fire broke out Feb. 11 and caused catastrophic damage to the facility.
“Most heartbreakingly, three of our beloved dogs lost their lives in the fire. We are grieving them deeply. They were not just animals in our care. They were part of our family,” the organization wrote on its GoFundMe page.
At the time of the fire, the shelter was caring for approximately 40 dogs. OSCAR said many animals were safely evacuated through the efforts of first responders, volunteers and partner rescues and were transported to emergency foster homes and veterinary facilities. Some dogs are being treated for injuries and smoke exposure.
The shelter building is currently uninhabitable, the organization said.
In statements posted online, OSCAR said it is facing emergency veterinary bills, as well as costs for food, bedding, crates and medical supplies for displaced animals.
“Our shelter building is currently uninhabitable,” the group said. “We have always operated with heart, grit, and the support of this community. Now we need you more than ever.”
The rescue is asking for monetary donations to help cover emergency medical care, temporary housing and rebuilding costs. In a message posted on Facebook, the organization said it is unable to accept physical donations due to the lack of storage space.
“Right now, our most urgent need is monetary support to help us rebuild, relocate, and continue caring for the animals who depend on us,” the group wrote. “Every dollar will go directly toward securing temporary and permanent housing, rebuilding our facility, veterinary care and ongoing expenses, and ensuring our rescue dogs remain safe and supported.”
Those wishing to donate can visit the GoFundMe page established by the organization. OSCAR also asked individuals interested in assisting to email oscaremergency2026@gmail.com.
Officials have not yet released information about the cause of the fire.
