The Grayson County Animal Shelter is at a standstill until insurance claims investigators can evaluate the loss and determine the fire's origin.

An early morning fire Friday, March 19 left at first report 65 animals dead. Those numbers have since been revised to 26 dogs and 22 cats, a total of 48 animals, according to Kim Stallings with the Grayson County Human Society.

The victims of the fire have been removed from the scene but that's the only change at the scene. Saint Paul Insurance Company, based in San Antonio, Tex., is investigating the fire, using a "Cause and Origin" inspector to determine how the fire started.

According to Darrell Harrell, city public works director, the cause is believed to be electrical due to an appliance. Neither wiring of the building nor foul play are believed to be factors, said Harrell.

The city is waiting for an estimate on the building and an inventory for content. The insurance investigation must be complete before clean-up on the property can begin. As of press time Tuesday, no date had been discussed.

The shelter is sure to be discussed at the next city council meeting on Monday, April 5.

Although council members have not had a chance to consult with each other on the issue, several council members talked about the disaster. Kevin Mudd said the city has two simple choices: get out of the business or use the other building (a building that is half constructed and was to be used for storage). "Right now there are a lot of unanswered questions," Mudd said.

"Both choices would have to be looked at to determine the best course of action for the city."

Wales Montgomery said he would like to see the shelter rebuilt.

"We (the city) had a big investment in the shelter. The volunteers were very passionate. They did a job that needed to be done," Montgomery said.

Councilwoman Brenda Huffman was reached but declined to comment without speaking with the entire council. We attempted to contact all council members, but some were unavailable and other did not want to comment on the issue.

The Grayson County Humane Society has placed 23 dogs in other shelters. Bowling Green Humane Society took 14, Lexington Labrador Rescue took five and a Huntsville, Ala. shelter will get four dogs.

The society said it will continue to be in desperate need of foster homes and supplies throughout June and July or until a new building could be completed. Foster homes for cats is in immediate demand as there is no shelter for them at all.