26 Chihuahuas Rescued from Pennsylvania House Fire

The ANNA Shelter in Erie took in the dogs, who were "terrified and traumatized" after the blaze.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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More than two dozen chihuahuas were rescued from a house fire in Pennsylvania, the ANNA Shelter said. The shelter in Erie was contacted by a police department for help after 26 chihuahuas had been pulled from a burning building in Hillsville, near New Castle. The dogs were described as "terrified and traumatized," but only six needed immediate medical care.

Why it matters

House fires can be devastating for both people and pets, and this incident highlights the importance of fire safety and the need for animal rescue organizations to be prepared to assist in emergency situations. The rescue of these 26 chihuahuas is a heartwarming story that demonstrates the dedication of local authorities and animal welfare groups.

The details

The fire broke out at a home on East Main Street in Hillsville, near New Castle. The dogs' owner was at work when the fire started in an upstairs bedroom. The fire is not believed to be suspicious, but the cause was ruled unknown due to the home's condition. The ANNA Shelter said the plan is to get all the dogs bathed and ready for spay/neuter surgeries next week before they're placed up for adoption. The chihuahuas range in ages and sizes, but none are over 10 pounds, and the shelter described them as "ALL VERY SWEET and the QUIETEST group of chis we've ever been around!!!"

  • The fire broke out on Thursday night.
  • The ANNA Shelter posted about the rescue on Saturday.

The players

ANNA Shelter

An animal rescue organization in Erie, Pennsylvania that took in the 26 chihuahuas rescued from the house fire.

Mahoning Township Fire Department

The fire department that responded to the house fire and assisted in the rescue of the 26 chihuahuas.

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What’s next

The ANNA Shelter plans to get all the dogs bathed and ready for spay/neuter surgeries next week before they're placed up for adoption.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the important role that animal rescue organizations play in emergency situations, as well as the need for pet owners to be vigilant about fire safety to protect their furry companions.