Six Dogs Dead, Six Rescued After Bruce Avenue House Fire in Ashland
ASHLAND, OH – A devastating house fire broke out at 727 Bruce Avenue just after noon today, leaving six dogs dead and an intense rescue effort by emergency crews.
Ashland Police Division officers were first on the scene, with the Ashland Fire Department and EMS arriving moments later. Assistant Fire Chief Dan Raudebaugh confirmed the initial 911 call came in at approximately 12:10 p.m. reporting a structure fire, with heavy smoke visible through the windows and coming out the front door.
“There was heavy smoke coming out the front door and the eaves of the house,” Raudebaugh said. “We were able to extinguish it rather quickly. Most of the fire was located in the kitchen area. The fire remains under investigation.”
Tragically, twelve dogs were inside the home when the fire broke out. Emergency personnel worked feverishly to rescue and revive as many animals as possible. Despite their best efforts, six dogs perished in the fire.
“I cringe as they brought out one lifeless dog after another,” said a witness. “They tried everything to revive them, but eventually covered them with blankets — a heartbreaking sign the fight was over.”
Tiffany Meyer with the Ashland County Humane Society confirmed that six surviving dogs were transported to the Ashland Veterinary Clinic for emergency care. The Ashland County Dog Shelter and Humane Society are collaborating to ensure the animals receive treatment and temporary housing.
In a surprising turn, a bearded dragon was also found alive inside the home and is now in safe hands.
No human injuries have been reported at this time.
Ashland Fire Department continues to investigate the cause of the fire.
