More than 50 dogs, cats die in mobile home fire
MOJAVE, California (AP) -- More than 50 dogs and cats were killed when fire engulfed a makeshift sanctuary for desert strays and abused animals, fire officials said.
The animals were trapped in a mobile home on property where owners cared for more than 150 animals, mostly dogs. Kern County Fire Inspector Tony Diffenbaugh said animals in backyard kennels were uninjured.
The trailer was engulfed when firefighters arrived Tuesday at the property about 75 miles north of Los Angeles.
"I can replace everything inside there. But I can't replace the lives of my little ones. I want them back," sobbed Cindy Bemis, who operated the refuge with her boyfriend.
Diffenbaugh said an electrical short likely caused the fire, which was extinguished in 15 minutes.
Animal control officials said the couple did not appear to be breaking any ordinances, and the surviving animals would be cared for.
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