By jillian

HACKETTSTOWN, NJ — A fast-moving, multi-alarm apartment fire ended with a remarkable pet rescue thanks to the swift, decisive actions of local emergency first responders.

On July 17, the Hackettstown First Aid and Rescue Squad administered critical, life-saving emergency care to two beloved family cats, Peanut and Petunia, after firefighters successfully pulled them from a heavily burning 136 Center Street apartment complex.

Given the severity of the blaze and immediate threat to the multi-family home, a second alarm was raised to request additional mutual aid from neighboring companies.

As fire crews pushed through blinding smoke to battle the body of the fire and search the rooms, interior attack teams located the two trapped felines. While the occupant’s belongings were a total loss after an electric stove reportedly exploded and ignited the blaze — his cats were responder’s primary concern.

Once on the ground, they utilized specialized pet oxygen masks and rapid animal assessment protocols to stabilize Peanut and Petunia, who were limp and barely breathing. 

Newton Veterinary Hospital’s advanced treatment played a critical role in the cat’s recovery, according to Chief Tyler Volkers. 

Volkers said one of the biggest challenges when treating pet victims is they are often frightened, anxious, and disoriented, so even the friendliest animal may resist help.

“Unlike human patients, animals can’t tell us what they’re feeling: dizziness, difficulty breathing, or pain,” said the chief. “That means we have to rely on our assessment, the animal’s behavior, and visible signs of smoke inhalation.”

He said HFARS member Brady Dauchert kept both cats calm while providing the treatment they needed.

The Hackettstown community flooded social media with gratitude for the volunteer squad’s adaptability and compassion transitioning from a human medical crisis to saving these pets.

Volkers says the crew was equally relieved in seeing Peanut and Petunia pull through an otherwise tragic family scene.

“You could see how much those cats meant to them,” said the chief, adding that HFARS’ commitment to the people and pets of Hackettstown is always worthwhile.

Thanks to the seamless coordination between the responding fire suppression teams, police detectives, and the rescue squad, no human injuries were reported during the event. The displaced family is currently receiving housing assistance from the American Red Cross of New Jersey, while their cats continue their recovery under professional veterinary supervision.

As formal family relief channels are finalized, residents can support the rescue crews directly. Donations to Hackettstown Fire Department and Rescue Squad, who funded the specialized pet oxygen masks that saved these cats.

“Animals hold a special place in our hearts. Being able to reunite Peanut and Petunia with their owners wasn’t just another call for us — it was an opportunity to help keep a family whole,” Volkers said.