A chihuahua has defied the odds by surviving nearly two weeks trapped inside a fire-ravaged tenement in Perth, in a heartwarming twist following last month’s tragic Scott Street blaze.
The dog, named Vilo – meaning “to live” or “to thrive and flourish” in Slovakian – was initially feared dead after the inferno tore through 41 Scott Street in the early hours of Saturday, 14 June. The fire claimed one life, injured others, and displaced dozens of residents.
Incredibly, Vilo was later spotted by nearby residents in a window of the severely damaged building. Perth and Kinross Council then contacted Missing Pets Perth and Kinross for assistance.
Due to safety restrictions at the site, charity volunteers deployed a drone equipped with thermal imaging to locate the tiny survivor. Traps containing food and water were placed each night by demolition workers, but Vilo remained elusive, cautiously feeding without triggering the traps.
It wasn’t until personal clothing from her owners was placed inside that Vilo was coaxed into the crate, finally allowing the team to rescue her on Friday, 27 June – almost two full weeks after the fire.
“This is a little bit of hope in some dark times,” said Katie McCandless, founder of Missing Pets Perth and Kinross. “I’ve been running this charity for 14 years, and this is the first case like this I’ve ever experienced. We knew it was delicate and had to be handled very sensitively. So many residents have lost everything.”
Remarkably, Vilo was found in good health. A vet confirmed she had no injuries, and her paw pads were unharmed. She had cleverly made a bed for herself inside a wardrobe, shielding her from demolition noise and debris.
“She doesn’t have a single mark on her. She smells a little of smoke, but had minimal smoke inhalation,” Katie added. “She really is a miracle dog.”
Vilo belongs to the Ridaj family, who lived on the top floor of the tenement. Her owner, Maros Ridaj, said: “We are very happy that the dog is safe and has been returned to us.”
Councillor Eric Drysdale, deputy leader of Perth and Kinross Council, hailed the rescue as a beacon of light amid the devastation: “This really is a remarkable story. I would like to thank everyone who played a part – the neighbouring family who spotted her, the charity, Council staff, and the Reigart demolition team.
“We know there are people still grieving after the fire, with loved ones lost, homes destroyed, and businesses affected. But this amazing rescue is emblematic of the kindness and determination shown by our community in the wake of this tragedy.”
The touching rescue of Vilo offers a rare glimmer of hope as Perth continues to come to terms with the aftermath of the Scott Street fire.
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