Sweater saves Chihuahua from Santa Ana house fire

SANTA ANA, Calif. (KABC) -- A Chihuahua thought dead after an electrical fire ripped through a Santa Ana home miraculously survived thanks to her sweater.

The 40 to 50 feet flames destroyed the entire home, including a truck parked outside, Santa Ana Police Det. Jerry Verdugo said.

Verdugo rescued one dog from its leash, but thought it was too late to rescue a second.

"Based on the heat and the intense flames, feared the dog was already dead," Verdugo said.

But Mellie the Chihuahua escaped after the fire burned the rope that tied her to the porch. She suffered smoke inhalation and third degree burns on her paws, sides and tail, but her veterinarian says the injuries could have been worse if not for her sweater.

The injuries were "definitely subdued to the body and to torso by having that sweater on, so truly the sweater may have saved her life," said Dr. David Weber of 17th Street Animal Hospital.

Although relieved, the family had no way to pay for Mellie's medical care. Santa Ana Animal Services and veterinarians at 17th Street Animal Hospital offered their services at no charge.

"Obviously this little pup means a lot to this lady and we wanted to be able to help and not add the loss of her dog to the list of problems," Weber said.

Mellie is expected to make a full recovery in four to six weeks.

To donate to the family, visit gofundme.com/jw640S.