Three cats missing in Burnsville fire found alive

By TIM HARLOW, Star Tribune

Last update: December 30, 2008 - 2:33 PM

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The adage is that cats have nine lives. For three cats presumed lost in a Burnsville apartment fire last week, they do have at least two.

On Monday, a representative from the company providing security at the Burncliff Apartments and the city's fire marshal found three cats alive in the rubble of the complex the burned to the ground a few days before Christmas.

"They reeked of smoke and their coats were a little dull," said Dave Bornhofen, owner of the American Boarding Kennels in Burnsville where the felines were taken after they were rescued. "They were not malnourished, but they were hungry. They were roughing it for the past week."

Cloe, Mr. Peepers and a black and white one whose name was unknown were found around 4 p.m. in apartment 218. Two of the cats belonged to one resident, the third to another. They were cleaned and bathed before they were reunited with their owners Monday evening, Bornhofen said.

It's not clear how they survived the fire and a week on their own, but Bornhofen said "these cats were healthy and cats are resourceful."

The search for other pets lost in the massive fire continues, Bornhofen said, but there are definitely some that won't be found alive.

Those whose pets are missing or seeking information can call the kennel at 952-894-5100.