In the recent weeks, a fire erupted at a private hospice center in the Leningrad region near St. Petersburg, Russia. Matilda, the dog, barked vigorously to alert the four residents, who were timely evacuated from the blazing wooden building by firefighters and transported in ambulances. While the residents were rescued thanks to Matilda’s swift response, the firefighters unintentionally overlooked the pooch, who remained inside the burning structure, still tethered to a leash. Russian media reported, “Amidst the chaos, everyone forgot about the dog named Matilda, who was on a leash. Affectionately known as Motya, she couldn’t escape the fire and suffered severe burns.”

After several hours, a television journalist’s broadcast unveiled the severely injured dog, writhing in pain. In response, animal rights activists and volunteers Alexander Tsinkevich and Elena Kalinina hurried to the site and rescued the distressed canine.

Transporting the wounded dog to Sotnikov’s clinic and shelter, they discovered, upon examination, that the canine was pregnant. According to a statement from the shelter, “Matilda’s face, neck, and abdomen were severely burned. Her muzzle remained completely naked, only burnt skin is visible. Her abdomen, in which the kids are, also looks creepy.”

“A fertility specialist examined her extensively, carefully studying the puppies. They are all alive and developing well,” as reported by Daily Star.

The dog is anticipated to give birth in the coming week.

With the assistance of people’s contributions, the shelter is regularly updating the public on the dog’s progress, indicating she is prepared to give birth at any time next week. However, Matilda might face challenges in feeding her babies immediately as her abdomen and nipples are extensively burnt.

Following the fire, the hospice owner couldn’t care for the dog due to injury, as reported by local sources. Nevertheless, at the clinic, veterinarians and volunteers are actively assisting the pooch in a speedy recovery.