Overview
- The fire that broke out Saturday at a home operating as Whomping Willow's Kennels left 21 animals dead and 11 survivors after crews removed 32 pets from the scene.
- Neighbors who saw smoke and heard dogs barking called 911 and some attempted rescues before Western Lakes Fire District crews pulled 16 dogs and 16 cats from the house.
- First responders used pet-sized oxygen masks and CPR to revive survivors while the fire district activated peer support for personnel who faced the traumatic scene.
- Officials say the blaze originated in a laundry/utility area and is not considered suspicious, and investigators from the Western Lakes Fire District and Village of Summit Police are examining the cause.
- Families report the kennel owner was not home during the fire and have disputed her communication since the incident while the Humane Animal Welfare Society is handling remains and helping arrange private cremations as local officials review whether the kennel was operating without required permits.