Rescue Dog Ziggy Becomes Hero, Saving Family and Other Rescue Animals from House Fire
A rescue pitbull mix named Ziggy is being credited with saving a home and the lives of his family and other rescue animals after alerting his owner, Nick, to a fire in the attached garage in the early morning hours of the Memorial Day holiday weekend. Ziggy, adopted about a year ago, demonstrated the profound impact rescue animals can have, turning the idea of "rescued" on its head by becoming the rescuer himself. Ziggy joined the family after Nick saw his picture on the Mountain Shelter website and felt an instant connection. Despite previously avoiding owning another pit bull, something about Ziggy's photo resonated. Upon adoption, Ziggy bonded instantly with Nick, sleeping by his side and constantly following him.
The incident occurred early Sunday morning on the 25th of May, around 2:00 AM. Nick was on the couch but without Ziggy which was not typical at all. However, the owner noticed Ziggy was up at the front door, looking out a window and making noises. This behavior was highly unusual for Ziggy. Initially, Nick suspected someone might be outside due to Ziggy's uncharacteristic noises. He went outside to check, accompanied by another dog. Ziggy immediately directed him towards the attached garage. Upon reaching the garage door, smoke was visible. Opening the door revealed thick smoke and a faint flicker of fire originating from a plug-in LED light.
The fire had already begun burning through wires in the beam above. Nick realized that had he gone to sleep, he never would have caught the fire in time, and it would have likely spread to the rest of the house. The potential consequences were dire, not only for the home and valuable property but also for the lives of all of the family’s rescue animals. "I mean, your rescue dog can... end up rescuing you in the end," Nick states. He adds, "that's just a fact. Every single dog I've rescued has brought me joy". Nick found "total happiness" with Ziggy, a bond noticed immediately by his wife. He encourages others to "go with your gut" if they see a rescue dog's picture and have a feeling about them, emphasizing, "had I not seen his picture and had that feeling, I have no idea what would have happened that night". Ziggy is described as inherently focused and a quick learner, bonding deeply without extensive formal training.
This incident powerfully illustrates the life-saving potential and deep bonds possible with rescue animals. Ziggy's heroic actions ensured the safety of his unique, rescue family and property, proving that sometimes, the rescued become the greatest rescuers.