2-Year-Old Mini Goldendoodle Alerts Family of House Fire Saving Their Lives
A 12-pound pup was two families’ hero after their Long Beach, NY, homes suddenly went up in flames while they were asleep on Nov. 9, 2025. The mini goldendoodle saved the families in the early hours of the morning before their smoke detectors went off.
Small Dog, Loud Bark
The 2-year-old pup, named Chase, incessantly barked when he sensed smoke. His barks woke up three members of two households, giving them enough time to escape.
"The residents were woken by the dog barking, and then looked out and saw the fire," said Rick DiGiacomo of the Long Beach Fire Department.
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One person had to escape through the roof to avoid getting hurt, but everyone was safe thanks to little Chase. Without his quick reaction, the outcome could have been tragic.
Assistant Chief Hadrick Ray helped save a couple in their 80s next door.
"I asked are they out? We saw that one guy has a walker. So we grabbed him out and then the police department helped with the second victim, who was inside that house," Ray said.
Mini Goldendoodle Saves Family
The families said they initially thought there was an intruder when they heard Chase barking.
"The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Nassau County Fire Marshal's Office, the Nassau County Police Arson Bomb Squad (@nassaucountypd), and the Long Beach Police Department," the department said.
Always Have a Smoke Detector—or a Pet!
DiGiacomo says he’s seen lots of instances where people were saved thanks to their pets or smoke detectors.
"The most important thing is to make sure you have smoke detectors working or a pet," DiGiacomo said.
This is one of those stories that shows that size doesn’t matter. Chase may be tiny, but his bark sure was loud—and thank goodness for that!
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“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you.” - Isaiah 43:2
WATCH: 2-Year-Old Mini Goldendoodle Alerts Family of House Fire Saving Their Lives
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h/t: People
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Michaela Gordoni is an avid reader and part-time globe-trotter. With a bachelor's degree in International Relations and experience in the non-profit world, she has a passion for people and reporting. You can check out her portfolio here.
Originally published November 25, 2025.
