Elderly woman hospitalized; more than 20 dogs found after house fire in Phoenix
Authorities say a house fire in Phoenix on Saturday afternoon left an elderly woman in extremely critical condition and led to the discovery of more than 20 dogs in metal cages at the home.
The Phoenix Fire Department said firefighters responded to a house fire near 39th Avenue and Bell Road at about 12:50 p.m. Crews then rescued and treated a woman in her 80s and transported her to the hospital in extremely critical condition, according to Phoenix Fire Department Capt. Todd Keller.
According to Keller, firefighters also discovered more than 20 dogs in metal cages inside the house and worked to rescue as many as possible. Seven dogs are being provided treatment and neighbors are assisting with the effort, Keller said.
According to authorities, a community assistance program unit was also at the scene to support those involved and firefighters reached out to the Humane Society and other animal care groups for help.
Keller said no firefighter injuries were reported and the cause of the fire was under investigation.
"At this time, one person will be displaced," Keller added.
Reach the reporter Jeremy Yurow at Jyurow@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Fire crews rescue elderly woman and dogs after Phoenix house fire
