Oldham Council is working with local partners to help deal with the aftermath of the Manchester Dogs’ Home blaze.

At least 40 dogs died and more than 150 were rescued from the fire at the site in Harpurhey on Thursday evening.
Councillor Norman Briggs, who has a background in Animal Welfare, is assisting with the response.
He said: “The blaze at Manchester Dogs’ Home is devastating and the community response from across the region has been amazing.
“We’ve been in contact with the Dogs Home and other organisations to offer assistance where we can.
“The fire also impacts on the work of our dog warden service to the Oldham and Tameside areas which normally delivers stray animals to Manchester Dogs Home.
“Anyone who has lost a dog in the area should contact the Call Centre as normal at any time of day on 0161 770 2244.
“We will then explain in more detail to the individuals what the new arrangements are for collecting dogs that have been picked up.”
He added: “I’d like to praise local people and partners for the incredible spirit shown in response to this heartbreaking fire.
Detectives and investigators from Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service are continuing to investigate how the fire at Manchester Dogs Home started.
Officers were called to the premises on Moss Bank Road in Harpurhey following reports of a fire on the evening of Thursday, September 11.
A 15-year-old boy who was arrested on suspicion of arson has been bailed pending further enquiries.
Detective Inspector Neil Jones, said: “The response from the public has been overwhelming and this is clearly an incident that has tugged on the heart strings of many.
“A number of people, including police officers and staff were quickly on the scene and put their life on the line to help with the rescue effort.
“We are determined to establish exactly how and why this fire started and will be working closely with our partners from the fire service.
“As part of the investigation a 15-year-old boy has been arrested and he will be spoken to throughout the course of the day.
“If anyone has any information about this fire I would encourage them to contact us.
“Our switchboard has been overrun with people wanting to help and I would ask people to not call the police unless they have information about the investigation or those responsible.
“Anyone wanting to donate items such as food and blankets can do so by bringing them to the north Manchester police headquarters. A Justgiving page has also been set up.”
Anyone with information about the fire is asked to call police on 101 or the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. You can visit the Just Giving page at: www.justgiving.com/dogshome



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