A 14-year-old schoolboy has been arrested under suspicion of starting the fire, which tore through one of the UK’s largest dogs homes.
At least 50 animals were killed by the blaze.
WOMAN FACES PRISON AFTER STARVING HER DOG TO DEATH
According to reports, neighbours heard ‘yelping’ coming from Manchester Dog’s Home as over 200 people gathered outside the burning building to watch brave RSPCA inspectors carried out the animals.
Members of the public brought out food and blankets for the animal, with many coming forward and offering homes to the distressed dogs.
A Greater Manchester Police spokesman told the Daily Mail last night: “It is confirmed that 43 dogs are dead and it is unknown how many are injured.”
“We are having lots of offers of help from the public, which is really nice,” he added.
“At the moment we don't know what help will be needed but it is great that so many people are coming forward.”
A volunteer for the dogs home told the newspaper: “I come and walk the dogs here as a volunteer. I'm absolutely devastated at what's happened. I've been crying for two hours. It is just desperate. We need everything.”
In just 12 hours, more than £225,000 has been raised to help the dogs following the fire, which was battled by over 30 firemen.
The 14-year-old boy suspected of starting the fire is currently being questioned by police.
Jason Manford offered his support for the dogs home, sharing a link to the JustGiving site before writing: "What an awful thing for someone to have done at Manchester & Cheshire Dogs home."
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