4 Dogs Find Temporary Home After Providence Fire

The pets' owner was treated for smoke inhalation after the blaze damaged her home.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 11:21am

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After a fire destroyed a Providence home last week, the four dogs who lived there have found temporary shelter at a local boarding facility. The owner, Sue Espinoza, was home with her two young sons when the fire broke out, and she was able to rescue three of the dogs before being rushed to the hospital for smoke inhalation. Firefighters were able to rescue the fourth dog, as well as one of Espinoza's two birds.

Why it matters

House fires can be devastating events that displace both people and their pets. This story highlights the importance of animal rescue and temporary housing options for pets whose owners have experienced a home emergency or disaster.

The details

Espinoza told local news station WPRI that she suddenly started smelling smoke while sitting on the couch, and it wasn't until she looked toward her closed bedroom door that she noticed the flames. She was able to rescue three of her four dogs before being taken to the hospital, while firefighters rescued the fourth dog and one of her two birds.

  • The fire occurred last Friday afternoon.
  • Espinoza and her two sons were treated at the hospital for smoke inhalation.

The players

Sue Espinoza

The owner of the four dogs who lived in the home that was destroyed by the fire.

Royal Fluff Boarding

The boarding facility in Warren, Rhode Island that is temporarily housing Espinoza's four dogs until she can rebuild her home.

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What they’re saying

“Royal Fluff Boarding isn't charging them until they can figure out what's next”

— Sue Espinoza, Dog Owner

What’s next

Espinoza and her family will need to work with their insurance provider and local authorities to determine the next steps for rebuilding their home and permanently housing their pets.

The takeaway

This story serves as a reminder of the importance of having an emergency plan in place for both people and their pets in the event of a house fire or other home disaster. It also highlights the compassion of the local community in providing temporary shelter and support for displaced animals.