2 hospitalized, dogs rescued and several displaced after Sherman Oaks apartment fire

SHERMAN OAKS, LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- An apartment fire in Sherman Oaks Thursday morning sent two people to the hospital, displaced several residents and prompted the rescue of pets, according to authorities.

The fire broke out around 9 a.m. in the 14000 block of Dickens Street, just south of Ventura Boulevard and east of Van Nuys Boulevard.

Firefighters encountered "heavy fire" and "a lot of smoke" coming from a second-story unit as they arrived, Los Angeles Fire Department Capt. Tony Tubbs said.

Two people - a 69-year-old woman and a man - were transported to the hospital, according to the Los Angeles Fire Department.

The woman was treated for possible smoke inhalation and is in moderate condition. The second victim's condition is unclear.

AIR7 video showed the intensity of the blaze as flames tore through the apartment.

Investigators have not yet determined the cause of the fire. A fire department spokesperson said the flames spread into the living room and another room, leaving extensive damage, including charred debris and broken windows.

Two small dogs were locked inside the unit when the fire began while their owner was away. A neighbor, Danielle, said she tried to help.

"I came to see if there was anything I could do and transport the animals. I live across the street," she said. "I offered to transport them around the corner to the hospital until the owner got here. That's what I would want someone to do if my animals were locked in my apartment."

The dogs - both 16 years old - were eventually rescued. One was given oxygen.

Fire officials said seven apartment units were affected, with three deemed uninhabitable. Eight adults and one child were displaced. Firefighters were able to prevent the blaze from spreading further, though several nearby units sustained smoke and water damage.

The investigation into the cause of the fire remains ongoing.