Puppy Rescued from Abandoned Detroit House Chimney

Michigan Humane and Detroit Fire Department team up to save exhausted pup

Apr. 9, 2026 at 9:27pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extremely blurred and abstracted photograph showing the soft, warm, and hazy silhouette of a firefighter's hand carefully lifting a small puppy from the top of a crumbling chimney, conveying the care and compassion of the rescue operation.A firefighter's gentle rescue of an exhausted puppy from an abandoned Detroit home's chimney highlights the collaborative efforts to save vulnerable animals in urban areas.Today in Detroit

A puppy was rescued from the top of a chimney in an abandoned Detroit home after a neighbor called for help. The foundation of the house was crumbling, so Michigan Humane called the Detroit Fire Department for assistance. Video shows fire crews using their fire truck's ladder to reach the puppy inside the chimney, who appeared exhausted as fire crews handed him off after the rescue.

Why it matters

This heartwarming rescue highlights the collaborative efforts of local authorities and animal welfare organizations to save vulnerable animals in distress, even in challenging urban environments. The story also underscores the importance of community members being vigilant and reporting potential animal welfare issues.

The details

The puppy, which appeared to be a pit bull or a mix breed, was examined by medical staff and given the name Stack. Stack remains under the care of Michigan Humane at the Mackey Center for Animal Care while working to gain weight.

  • On April 9, 2026, a neighbor called for help after spotting the puppy at the top of the abandoned home's chimney.

The players

Michigan Humane

A non-profit animal welfare organization that provides rescue, veterinary care, and adoption services for animals in need in the Detroit area.

Detroit Fire Department

The fire department that responded to the call and assisted in the rescue of the puppy from the abandoned home's chimney.

Stack

The name given to the rescued puppy, who appeared to be a pit bull or mix breed.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“This little guy was discovered at the very top of a chimney in an abandoned home. Yes, the top. A neighbor made the call, and with help from the @detroitfiredepartment, he was safely brought down and into our care.”

— Michigan Humane

What’s next

Stack will remain under the care of Michigan Humane at the Mackey Center for Animal Care while he works to gain weight and recover from his ordeal.

The takeaway

This rescue operation demonstrates the importance of community vigilance and the collaborative efforts between local authorities and animal welfare organizations to save vulnerable animals in distress, even in challenging urban environments.