SEATTLE — Just before 11 a.m., the Seattle Fire Department responded to a dryer fire in a dog daycare facility near the 13000 block of Lake City Way NE. As firefighters entered the main doorway, they were immediately encountered multiple dogs trying to escape the smoke-filled building. Crews requested additional resources, including Seattle Police and Animal Control, to help corral the loose dogs and prevent them from running onto Lake City Way NE. Fortunately, neighboring businesses assisted in providing temporary shelter for the dogs.
Crews worked quickly to get the fire under control and conduct a primary search to confirm that all seven human occupants were able to evacuate the building. Paramedics treated a 19-year-old female who was in stable condition and declined transportation to a hospital. With all humans accounted for, firefighters conducted a more thorough search and rescue operation for dogs that remained in the facility. Crews rescued multiple dogs and provided lifesaving efforts for four of them. All four were transported to a local veterinary hospital with the help of a neighboring pet clinic.
The fire was fully extinguished by 12:10 p.m., and the cause of the fire is currently under investigation. Staff of the dog daycare were able to account for all of the dogs.
UPDATED Feb. 2: Seattle Fire Department investigators ruled the fire was accidental and started in a dryer then extended to the back of the building. Estimated loss is $300,000.