WI Fire Kills Dozens Of Pets Despite Mass Rescue Effort

DOUSMAN, WI — Firefighters pulled 32 animals from a burning Dousman home Saturday, but were only able to save 11 of them.

Western Lakes Fire District and Village of Summit Police responded to a residential structure fire at 141 Wolf Drive in Dousman on June 13.

Neighbors called 911 at 4:09 p.m. after spotting smoke and hearing dogs barking inside. They tried to enter the home to rescue the animals but were forced back by smoke and fire conditions.

The first units arrived and found smoke and a working fire.

The incident was immediately upgraded to a Level 1 response, drawing mutual aid from multiple departments. A concurrent drowning incident in Delafield had already tied up the Western Lakes Dive Team and Lake Country Fire Rescue, straining available resources and prompting a Level 2 upgrade to backfill stations and maintain coverage across the district.

During search operations, crews pulled unresponsive dogs and cats from the home.

Western Lakes ambulances, outfitted with Pet Oxygen Mask Kits funded by community donors, were deployed to administer oxygen and CPR to the animals on scene.

Of the 16 dogs and 16 cats removed from the residence, 6 dogs and 5 cats survived.

No civilians or firefighters were injured. The residents were not home at the time. The fire does not appear to be suspicious, and investigators have narrowed the area of origin to the laundry and utility room. The Western Lakes Fire District and Village of Summit Police are continuing their investigation with assistance from the Wisconsin Department of Criminal Investigation Fire Marshal's Office.

"Our deepest sympathies go out to the families impacted by this tragic fire and the profound loss of these beloved family members," said Chief Bowen.

"Our first responders faced a significant and tragic scene, and we are utilizing our Employee Assistance Program and Peer Support Team to support the mental well-being of the personnel involved."