At least 6 dogs killed after fire breaks out inside Westmoreland County kennel
By Caitlyn Scott, Ed DiOrio
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NORTH HUNTINGDON, Pa. (WTAE) — An investigation is underway after officials said at least six dogs were killed after a fire broke out inside a kennel in Westmoreland County on Wednesday night.
Pittsburgh’s Action News 4 was on the scene at Bowser’s Dog Services within the 300 block of Baker School Road, where multiple crews were seen dousing hot spots.
Larimer VFC Chief Bill Hardy told Pittsburgh’s Action News 4 that the fire was reported at 9:30 p.m.
When officials arrived at the scene, he said flames could be seen coming from the roof of the structure.
He said at least six dogs are believed to have been killed as a result of the fire.
Hardy said one person may have sustained injuries trying to get the dogs out; no other injuries were reported.
“They clearly have a love for animals, just like we do,” said Pam Liberatore, a dog trainer and caretaker for Paw and Order Westmoreland County. “It’s devastating, to say the least.”
Liberatore told Pittsburgh’s Action News 4 that the fire has shaken not just her, but many dog owners in the county. She not only sees the work Bowser’s does for local dogs, but also recommends clients to the North Huntingdon service.
“They show that their dogs that they’re doing training for are well-trained,” Liberatore said. “They show their love and compassion through that. They’re definitely people that we have always, and continue to recommend.”
That’s why when she heard that their kennel had burned down, she reached out to all of her clients and fellow trainers.
“I know my clientele in the area are very giving and hopefully want to support,” Liberatore said. “We, personally, would like to, just from our own pockets, offer anything we can. We’ll maybe come up with a way that our clients can support them by offering monetary donations. That way, they can use it for whatever they may need it for. Dog crates, bedding, bowls, the essentials.”
Liberatore said she doesn’t know the owners of Bowser’s personally, but when something like this happens, it’s about supporting a fellow animal lover.
“Our hearts go out to them as local trainers and dog lovers,” she said. “Even though we are competitors in the dog training world, we also need to act as a support system. I strongly believe that the community will be backing Bower’s in this situation.”
The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
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