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

“Then within about 10 minutes I could hear someone shouting ‘Oh my God.’

“I thought there was a fight going on, but then I saw a huge glow coming from the kitchen. I thought the kitchen was on fire.

“I ran out and went to get the hosepipe, but there’s not a lot you can do with a little pipe.

“You could hear her howling.”

About six people from the nearby Liberal club ran to help the family try to break open the kennel where Lola was trapped.

But the flames, which leaped up to 20ft in the air, forced them back.

Firefighters from Dewsbury and Mirfield arrived to douse the blaze, which was burning for about 20 minutes.

By the time the fire was out Lola had died.

West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service said the incident was believed to have been deliberate.

James said two men, thought to be in their 20s, were seen by a neighbour loitering in the field next to the family’s house shortly before the incident.

He said: “I can’t believe that anyone could do something like this.”

West Yorkshire Police is investigating.

A spokesman said: “Anyone with information is asked to contact us.”

Call Kirkburton Neighbourhood Policing Team via 0845 6060606.