WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) – One week ago, Wilmington police responded to a home along Vance Street where they believed an alleged armed robbery suspected was.
Wilmington Police arrested 26-year-old Saead El Helo after they say he barricaded himself in a home in South Wilmington. They say before he was taken into custody, El Helo set the home on fire. In that home was a dog named Katie.
Wilmington Firefighters Pfeffer and Richardson were conducting a primary search of the residence when they discovered Katie in a back room, according to a department public information officer. They say that the dog was trying to hide from the smoke and her body was becoming overcome by the inhalation of the toxic smoke.
Katie was rescued and brought outside to receive immediate medical treatment from Wilmington Firefighter Bransford according to WFD public information officer Natosha Vincent.
Katie was later transported by Wilmington’s Assistant Chief Tom Robinson to a local emergency animal hospital where she was treated for smoke inhalation. After spending several days in the animal hospital, Katie was discharged Saturday from the hospital and is doing well.
After being rescued from that burning house by Wilmington’s bravest, this lucky pup has found herself a second chance at life and happiness.
She is expected to make a full recovery and is at her new home, with her new owner, Firefighter DeVilbiss, from the Wilmington Fire Department.
The Wilmington Fire Department would like to take this opportunity to remind our citizens of that June is National Pet Preparedness Month.
For more tips about how to be “Pet Prepared” for any disaster, go to
https://www.ready.gov/animals or
http://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/blog/national-pet-preparedness-month/