India, June 24 -- Beyond the tragic loss of human life, numerous animals are missing, feared to have died of smoke inhalation or sustained grave injuries during the devastating fire in Lucknow's Aliganj locality on Monday. An official confirmation has not been made yet. Charu Khare, an animal activist and rescuer from Aasra-The Helping Hand, was among the first to reach the scene. "Over 20-25 animals including dogs, birds, cats and rabbits were present at the Aliganj Pet Shop and Hospital at the time of incident and somewhere over 10 are still missing," she says and adds, "What could be saved by the staff and fire department was a hemstar, a parrot and cats. I was able to bring four cats who were trapped in the basement but unki bhi halat theek nahin hain. The number of dead rabbits and dogs remains uncertain." Another rescuer on anonymity from the spot adds, "Bezubaan ki kaun sunega jab cheekhe na sunn paye.I was around the same area and somehow managed to talk to two fire helpers and they could be heard saying that on the first floor of the building a few dogs were burnt to death." Heartbroken pet owners gathered outside the building, clutching photographs of their companions in hopes of identifying them. Heartbroken pet owners gathered outside the building, in hopes of identifying them. Vibhu Awasthi, visibly emotional, said, "They trusted us with their safety. What these animals must have gone through at that time is unimaginable for any of us." Lucknowite Anita, whose stray dog died in the fire, lamented the cruel outcome: "I had adopted him from the streets after an accident. Never thought he would meet such a cruel end." Rida Hasan, an animal lover who works primarily with strays, urged owners to exercise caution when choosing care facilities....