A fire that began about 11 a.m. Wednesday quickly gutted the home of a well-known area animal rescuer.
Cathy Leinert, owner of Cathy's Rottie Rescue, Rehab and Sanctuary at 182 Cossaduck Hill Road, said she was hysterical thinking of the animals in her care when she came up the driveway to see the flashing lights of the firetrucks.
Leinert said she has been running a rescue organization at the house for 17 years and has rescued more than 600 dogs, many from high-kill shelters. She said 19 dogs are currently in her care, and now that the rescue is temporarily closed, her major concern is finding homes for them, starting with the handful that have been rehabilitated and are ready for adoption.