3 chihuahuas 'fighting for survival' after Springfield house fire
Mar 19, 2025
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WPRI) — The Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (MSPCA) is seeking donations to care for three chihuahuas who were rescued from their burning Springfield home earlier this week.
The chihuahuas, named Daylilah, Peluche and Savanna, were brought to t
he Angell Animal Medical Center after the fire, which heavily damaged a Carew Street apartment building Monday night.
The dogs appeared to be suffering from severe respiratory distress and suspected neurological issues, according to the MSPCA.
"The dogs arrived in critical condition and, after a night in intensive care, local veterinarians knew that they needed more advanced treatment," MSPCA's Mike Keiley said. "Given the tenuous state of their health and prolonged hospitalization expected, the dogs' owners surrendered them in Springfield, which is when we were called."
SEE ALSO: MSPCA trying to save lives of 2 surrendered kittens
Keiley said the trio was immediately rushed into intensive care. The dogs are in oxygen cages and being given various fluids and medications to treat damage caused by smoke inhalation, he added.
"There were other animals involved in this fire that unfortunately perished, but these dogs are fighters. The chihuahuas are fighting for survival," Keiley said, noting that several dogs and cats died. "We're giving everything we've got to keep these dogs alive."
"We're hopeful that they may start showing signs of improvement in the coming days, but right now we're in a holding pattern," he continued.
It's unclear when the dogs will be well enough to be put up for adoption. The MSPCA is requesting donations to offset the more than $20,000 in medical expenses to provide the dogs with around-the-clock care.
The cause of the fire remains unknown at this time. The American Red Cross is assisting the four residents who have been displaced.
Savanna and her siblings are in critical condition at Angell Animal Medical Center. (Courtesy: MSPCA-Angell)Daylilah and her siblings are in critical condition at Angell Animal Medical Center. (Courtesy: MSPCA-Angell)Peluche and her siblings are in critical condition at Angell Animal Medical Center. (Courtesy: MSPCA-Angell)
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