Animals rescued from house fire
<p>Athol homeowner Sandy Miller and members of the Timberlake Fire Department celebrate the survival of Cassy, MillerÕs German shepherd dog after a house fire. Back row from left are Chief Kevin Kleinworth, Miller, firefighter Jack Duclos, firefighter Matt Connor and Capt. Bill Wright. Front row from left are firefighter Brandon Hermenet, Cassy, Lt. Eric Foti, and firefighter Caleb Tyler.</p>
ATHOL - An Athol house fire that killed a German shepherd on Wednesday is believed to have been caused by an electrical issue, firefighters said on Friday.
Another German shepherd, cat and rabbit were rescued from the flames and smoke and survived.
The fire at the manufactured home reported at 3:05 p.m. at 25558 N. Ramsey Road caused extensive damage to two bedrooms and the attic, said Jim Lyon, spokesman for the Timberlake Fire District. There was also smoke damage throughout the home.
"It appears to be electrical in nature, but investigators are still looking into the cause," Lyon said.
Lyon didn't have an estimated amount of damage caused.
The fire was reported by three Timberlake High students who were driving by the home and saw smoke coming out.
The four residents of the home were not present, but arrived shortly after the fire was reported, Lyon said. Neighbors attempted to extinguish the fire with a garden hose.
The homeowners advised fire crews that two dogs, a rabbit and cat were trapped inside.
Upon entering the home, Timberlake Fire crews knocked down the fire and rescued all of the pets. Both dogs were found in a bathroom unconscious.
The female German shepherd named Cassy was revived, but the male dog didn't survive.
The American Red Cross assisted the family with emergency housing and personal needs. The family has home insurance.
Spirit Lake Fire and Northern Lakes provided mutual aid for Timberlake. Fire crews left at 6:30 p.m.