BOSTON, MA – Three Chihuahuas rescued from fire are fighting for their lives at Angell Animal Medical Center after surviving a devastating house fire in Springfield, Massachusetts, on the night of March 17. The dogs—four-year-old Daylilah and her five-year-old siblings, Peluche and Savanna—were rescued by emergency responders and are now receiving intensive care for severe smoke inhalation.
Key Takeaways
- Three Chihuahuas were rescued from a house fire in Springfield.
- The dogs are in critical condition and receiving intensive care.
- The MSPCA is seeking donations to cover medical expenses exceeding $20,000.
- Several other animals perished in the fire, and the cause is under investigation.
The Incident
The fire broke out in a multi-family home on Carew Street, tragically claiming the lives of several pets. Emergency responders managed to save the three Chihuahuas, but all were suffering from severe respiratory distress and possible neurological complications from smoke inhalation.
After being transported to a local veterinary hospital, their condition was assessed as critical. Given the severity of their injuries and the prolonged treatment required, their owner made the heartbreaking decision to surrender them to the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (MSPCA), which then coordinated their transfer to Angell Animal Medical Center in Boston on March 18.
Current Condition of the Dogs
The MSPCA has reported that the Chihuahuas remain in intensive care, receiving around-the-clock treatment:
- Daylilah (4 years old): In critical condition, receiving oxygen and fluids.
- Savanna (5 years old): Also in critical condition, undergoing intensive care.
- Peluche (5 years old): Fighting for survival, receiving round-the-clock treatment.
Veterinarians remain cautiously optimistic about their recovery. “These dogs are fighters, and we’re doing everything we can to help them,” said Mike Keiley, vice president of the MSPCA-Angell’s Animal Protection Division. They are currently housed in oxygen cages and receiving various medications to aid their healing.
Community Support and Donations
The MSPCA has launched a fundraising campaign to help cover the expected $20,000 cost of their medical care. Donations made before Giving Day will be matched, doubling their impact.
“We’re giving everything we’ve got to keep these dogs alive,” Keiley added. “We’re hopeful they may start showing signs of improvement in the coming days, but for now, we’re focused on keeping them stable.”
Those wishing to help can donate at mspca.org/givingday. Updates on the Chihuahuas’ progress will be shared on the MSPCA’s social media channels.
Fire Safety Tips for Pet Owners
This tragic incident is a stark reminder of the importance of fire safety when it comes to pets. Here are some tips to help protect your furry family members in case of an emergency:
- Use Pet Alert Stickers: Place rescue alert stickers on your doors and windows to notify firefighters of pets inside.
- Create an Emergency Plan: Plan and practice escape routes that include your pets. Assign a family member to be responsible for each pet in case of evacuation.
- Keep Collars and Leashes Accessible: Have collars, leashes, or carriers near exits to make evacuations quicker.
- Avoid Open Flames: Never leave candles unattended, and use flameless candles instead. Keep pets away from stoves and other fire hazards.
- Install Smoke Alarms with Monitoring: Consider monitored smoke detectors that notify emergency services if a fire occurs while you’re away.
- Secure Electrical Cords: Pets, especially puppies and kittens, may chew on cords, leading to potential fire hazards. Use cord covers to prevent accidents.
- Have an Emergency Kit Ready: Keep an emergency kit with pet essentials such as food, water, medications, and veterinary records.
Chihuahuas Rescued from Fire: Ongoing Recovery Efforts
As investigators continue to determine the cause of the fire, the MSPCA remains committed to providing the best possible care for Daylilah, Peluche, and Savanna. If they recover, the organization plans to place them into loving homes.
“These dogs have been through so much,” Keiley said. “Once we’re out of the woods, we’ll focus on finding them a second chance at life.”
For now, the tiny survivors continue to fight—and with the support of the community, they just might make it.
