At least six stray animals died in the basement of an Ooltewah home after fire embers lit a rug then the residence on fire.
The animals were all dogs, based on what one of the firefighters said, according to Amy Maxwell, spokeswoman for Hamilton County Emergency Services.
The homeowner was in the house at the time of the fire, but was not injured, she said.
Tri-Community Volunteer firefighters responded to 320 Shadow Parkway shortly after the 10 p.m. emergency call, according to Ms. Maxwell.
When the rug caught on fire, the homeowner decided to drag it out of the house, which spread the fire, according to the release.
It took at least 45 minutes to get the blaze under control, Ms. Maxwell said.
Assistant Chief Danny Hauge estimated there was $350,000 worth of damage to the home.