Cats are often said to have “nine lives” due to their ability to always land on their feet, but one dog has proven to be just as resilient. This brave canine escaped from a burning home by leaping out of a second-story window.
According to NBC Philadelphia, Justin Steinmetz spotted a smoke-filled house in Fleetwood, Berks County while driving to work. The home was unoccupied at the time, with the adults away at work and the children at school, and Justin frantically tried to get help.

Another driver called 911 and he attempted to extinguish the fire with a hose, but was unsuccessful. Firefighters promptly arrived to combat the flames. However, the situation took a dramatic turn when Charlie, the family’s dog, appeared in the second-story window, desperately trying to escape.

The firefighters encouraged Charlie to jump out the window, which was the only way to safety. In a dramatic moment captured on video by Justin, the dog bravely leaped out of the window. Although he was covered in soot, he managed to survive.
“He had a mouth full of smoke, lungs full of smoke, and he jumped to safety,” Justin told NBC. “The important thing is that he jumped when he needed to.”
The Stump family, identified as the homeowners, “lost everything” in the fire, although their other dog and two cats were found on the scene, having managed to escape the home.
Although it is fortunate that the pets survived, a GoFundMe campaign was created to help the Stump family get back on their feet after losing their home.

“We are thankful that they are safe, but we understand that the fire has had a significant impact on their lives,” states the website. The fundraiser has collected $40,000 to support the family.
Justin, who runs a farm, is lending the family some baby goats to provide them with “goat therapy.” He also highlights the positive news that their pets have survived the fire.