UPDATE: Murfreesboro Fire & Rescue Department’s District 9 and Engine 1 responded to a house fire at 2809 Holsted Drive just after 12:15 Thursday afternoon.

Crews arrived on scene to find light smoke exiting the structure. It was unknown if anyone was inside, so crews began a primary search and found no occupants. Crews worked quickly to extinguish the fire.

Two cats in distress were taken outside and hooked up to oxygen with the use of the department’s recently acquired pet rescue masks. Their breathing became less labored and they were transported by Engine 1 to the Animal Medical Center on River Rock Boulevard for further care. 

Ashley McDonald with Murfreesboro Fire and Rescue stated in an email, "I just got off the phone with the Animal Medical Center and the cats are both listed in stable, yet critical condition. The first 24 hours are the most critical, so they are being monitored very closely."

The cause of the fire is also unknown; however, it appears to have started in the kitchen. 

MFRD was able to contain fire damage to the kitchen area, but there is heavy smoke damage throughout the home. The three occupants, who were not home at the time of the fire, have been displaced and will receive assistance from the American Red Cross.

“Crews got on the fire quickly,” said Shift Commander Dale Maynard. “Attention then shifted to saving the family’s two cats,” he continued. “This is the first time we’ve used the pet rescue masks and they worked well.”

PET RESCUE MASKS

MFRD received a donation of four pet rescue kits from retired Murfreesboro Police Officer Joanna Medlen in December 2013. The “Wag’n O2 Fur Life” kits were placed on each of the department’s rescue trucks. Each kit contains oxygen masks in various sizes, oxygen air tubes, a carry bag, instructions, and a kennel lead.

Source: 

Murfreesboro Fire and Rescue PIO Ashley McDonald