The damage is estimated at $200,000 after a fire broke out at a two-storey home just outside of Erieau Monday afternoon.
Chatham-Kent fire officials said crews from Blenheim, Erieau, Raleigh South, and Harwich were all called to the scene at 18878 Erieau Road at 2:40 p.m. Monday.
Fire officials said flames were already visible through the lower windows and doors of the home by the time firefighters arrived at the scene and strong winds quickly pushed the fire into the attic, prompting firefighters to leave the home and move to a more defensive position.
An excavator was later brought in to help put out the fire and to tear down what was left of the partially collapsed structure.
Fire crews said the only person who was home at the time of the fire was able to escape safely with two dogs, but reported that another dog and a pet rabbit were still inside the home at the time of the fire -- they couldn't be rescued in time and perished.
At this point, the cause is going down as undetermined.
Fire officials are also thanking the public for their support as members of the community brought food and coolers of water to the crews while they were at the scene.
