NEW BERN -- "Our understanding is that the area where our dog was kept, they did not get those dogs out. It looks like she perished in the fire," said David Smith, Havelock resident.
Those are the words no pet owner wants to hear.
David and Rosie Smith had their pet staying at Lynaire Kennels and Crematory in Craven County while they were out of town for the weekend.
"Dropped her off on Saturday morning. We were going to Charlotte to be with family for Mother's Day weekend, got home late last night and we were planning to pick her up this morning. That's when we got a call," said Smith.
Fire officials said it was around 4 a.m. Monday when they received the call about the fire.
"Upon the arrival of our first units about 50 percent percent of the structure was heavily involved in flames. It took us about 45 minutes to get the flames under control, approximately hour and 1/2, 2 hours for full extinguishment," said Chief Travis Blalock, No. 7 Township Fire & Rescue.
We spoke with the owner who said that her and her ten employees are devasted. The facility opened in 1994 and 45 animals were inside the building during the time of the fire.
25 animals perished in the fire including the Smith's beloved pet, Bonnie Rose.
"Seven-year-old Golden Retriever. We've had her since she was about five weeks old. So she basically grew up with us and we're the only family basically that she knew," said Smith.
The kennel owner says that 20 animals were saved from the fire.
Those were taken to Jills Pet Resort for safe keeping.
A tragic incident for all families involved and employees.
"I just want to say that the staff was great. They knew Bonnie, they loved her. Bonnie knew them and loved them," said Rosie Smith, resident.