The Rittman family lost 3 dogs after a house fire while looking for a new home

RITTMAN, Ohio (WOIO) – A Rittman family is mourning the loss of three dogs who died in a house fire.

The Rittman Firefighters Association said the fire occurred Thursday evening.

According to the Rittman Firefighters Association, the dogs likely died of smoke inhalation.

Kayla Shue said she, her husband and their three sons were lucky to get out of the house.

“I just remember in those moments I was begging like God had just jumped down and our dogs were stuck there,” Shue said.

Shue said their dogs, Capone, Moose and Raven, were a big part of their family.

“I feel constant guilt just because it was about saving our lives and risking our lives to try to go back and save our dogs,” Shue said.

According to the Rittman Firefighters Association, the fire was caused by a faulty dehumidifier that caught fire and spread to two nearby pieces of furniture.

Shue said she is grateful to the community for the support that helped them get through it.

“We are incredibly grateful to everyone who has stepped up and loved our family, even when they have their own problems or the holidays are approaching. I’m very grateful for that,” Shue said.