On the afternoon of August 24, a Dawsonville, Georgia, family lost their home, and two of their beloved dogs, in a devastating fire that was apparently sparked by a lightning strike. As reported by FYN News, there were severe thunderstorms in the area when the fire started at the residence located at 55 Day Road.
The family was not at home when the blaze started – but their pets were inside of the house. Eric Johnston, the homeowner, recounted what he found when his family returned to their residence:
There were about a dozen fire trucks, police and EMT in front of our home. The electric pole in front of the house was struck by lighting and traveled through the wires into the house and it was set on fire. Everything we owned has been lost.
And mourned the loss of the dogs killed because of the fire:
Our twelve year old dog Trooper, passed away from smoke inhalation. He was the centerpiece of our family. Just four days earlier we had brought home a pair of beautiful 10 week old sister puppies. They were rushed to the ER vet. Lily passed away last night. It looks like Lola, the little fighter she is, is going to make it.
The community has reached out to try and help the family recover from this unbelievable tragedy. A GoFundMe account (found here) has raised over $7,000. In a Facebook post, Johnston wrote of his family’s need for assistance:
A friend of ours has setup a GoFundMe page to assist us in rebuilding our lives. As difficult as it is to ask for help, I am asking this time. Prayers, donations, messages, calls all mean the world to us and our family.
Follow the National Animal News Facebook page for petitions, news and updates!
Yesterday: A second chance – dog who gave up after being surrendered embarks on new life
Share the message – Pets are not disposable! Find your favorite color and style here.
Smart pup!
I prefer dogs to people #dontjudge
Pick your favorite color and style at this link!
Your purchase helps support the continuation of our site. More styles and messages at our store. Please click here to find them all!
Fight animal abuse! Donate Now
There is no us. There is no them. We are one. Choose your favorite style and color here.
Your purchase helps support the continuation of our site. Find your favorite shirt with a message at this link to our store!
I survived loving a foster dog until a furever home was found – share the message with this one of a kind shirt! Pick your favorite style and color at this link.
Your purchase helps spread an important message AND supports the continuation of this site.
How devastating, they left them home supposedly safe and sound and then something like this happens. My heart goes out to these people. You can replace possessions but not little innocent lives. Prayers for the one puppy still alive and fighting.
PLEASE PLEASE HELP THESE PEOPLE ANY WAY YOU CAN!
MANY MANY PRAYERS FOR LOLA AND THE WHOLE FAMILY!
This awful event is everyone’s worst nightmare…… Condolences to the family for Trooper and Lily. Hope Lola heals ASAP!!!
Precious treasures Trooper and Lily,
I absolutely know you are in Heaven.
RIP Trooper and Lily. Please look for MacKitty in Heaven and he will welcome you into his snuggle buddies group. You can RIP amongst his loving friends……..