DANIA BEACH, Fla. – Loretta Murray told Local 10 News that she is still shaken up by the fire that tore through her Dania Beach home last week while more than 30 dogs were inside.
The fire was reported Thursday night at her home in the 200 block of Southeast Park Street.
Broward Sheriff's Office firefighters saved all but one of the dogs.
"I was only gone for an hour and I came back and the house was in flames," Murray said.
Local animal rescue groups and foster families came to Murray's aid to help find the dogs somewhere to stay.
"What do you say to people who say, 'She looks like a pet hoarder?'" Local 10 News reporter Neki Mohan asked.
"Absolutely not," Murray insisted.
Instead, Murray said she is an advocate for disabled dogs, like the three-legged one she got from Egypt. She admits she never turns any dog in need away.
"Loretta is one of those people who will not turn down (an animal) just because he is sick or missing a limb, or has some sort of an issue," one of the dog foster parents, Darina Weitzmann, said.
"I have been rescuing dogs for years, especially ones no one wants," Murray said.
Anyone who is interested in adopting any of the dogs is asked to contact Abandoned Pet Rescue at 954-728-9010 or the Florida Cocker Spaniel Rescue at 813-245-1833.