Firefighters Rescue Puppy Stuck in Abandoned Home's Chimney

The 3-4 month old pit bull puppy, now named Stack, was found malnourished but healthy after the dramatic rescue.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 7:43am

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An abstract, impressionistic photograph showing the blurred outline of a small puppy peeking out from the top of an old brick chimney, surrounded by a warm, glowing haze of soft yellow and orange light.A rescued puppy's mischievous spirit shines through the hazy, dreamlike scene of its dramatic chimney-top rescue.Today in Detroit

Firefighters in Detroit responded to a call from neighbors who spotted a puppy stuck at the top of an abandoned home's chimney. The 3-4 month old pit bull puppy, now named Stack, was pulled to safety by firefighters using a ladder truck. Stack was malnourished when found but has since gained weight and is now up for adoption through Michigan Humane, described as having a "great personality" and being a bit "mischievous".

Why it matters

The rescue highlights the challenges abandoned and stray animals face, especially in urban areas with many vacant and dilapidated buildings. It also showcases the important role local animal welfare organizations play in caring for rescued pets and finding them new homes.

The details

Neighbors called for help on March 31 after spotting the puppy at the top of the chimney of a crumbling abandoned home. Firefighters from the Detroit Fire Department responded, set up a ladder truck, and climbed to the roof to pull the puppy to safety. The puppy, now named Stack, was malnourished when found but has since gained weight and is described as having a "great personality" and being a bit "mischievous".

  • Neighbors spotted the puppy at the top of the chimney on March 31.
  • Firefighters rescued the puppy on March 31.
  • Stack the puppy was made available for adoption on Monday.

The players

Michigan Humane

The animal welfare organization that is now caring for the rescued puppy and making him available for adoption.

Matt Pepper

The president and CEO of Michigan Humane, who described the puppy as having a "great personality" and being a bit "mischievous".

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What they’re saying

“He loves cuddles and being pet.”

— Matt Pepper, President and CEO, Michigan Humane

“He's going to get a great dog but one they're going to keep an eye on.”

— Matt Pepper, President and CEO, Michigan Humane

What’s next

Anyone interested in adopting Stack can find more information on the Michigan Humane website.

The takeaway

This rescue highlights the ongoing challenges abandoned and stray animals face in urban areas, and the important role local animal welfare organizations play in caring for rescued pets and finding them new homes.