Pet labrador burned alive in kennel arson in Kirkheaton

May 26 2010 by Sam Casey, Huddersfield Daily Examiner

Pet labrador burned alive in kennel arson in Kirkheaton

A TODDLER’S beloved pet dog was killed in an horrific fire.

Lola, a 15-month-old labrador, could be heard howling as the flames engulfed her kennel in Kirkheaton.

The animal had been bought as a puppy by James Jenkins, 24, and his partner Laura Binns, 22, for their 20-month-old daughter Kelsey.

Desperate attempts by the family and drinkers who were leaving Kirkheaton Liberal Club failed to save the dog as the heat overwhelmed them.

Lola’s remains were buried yesterday.

James, of St John’s Avenue, said: “It was like something out of a horror film.

“I’m absolutely devastated.

“We bought the dog for Kelsey to grow up with.

“I don’t want to tell her what has happened.”

James, Laura and Kelsey live with James’s parents, Robert and Carol.

Lola was in her kennel which was attached to a large cage next to the fence in the drive on Monday night when Robert smelled smoke at about 10pm.

He said: “I opened the window but couldn’t see anything so I ignored it.