"To the people of Manchester – thank you is not enough. We cannot find the words," said Lisa Graham, manager for 10 years at the Manchester & Cheshire Dogs' Home.

Since 1893, the English charity has provided shelter and veterinary care,and found adoptive homes for more than one million dogs. Now it's people who are stepping up to rescue the animal shelter, after their kennels in Manchester burned to the ground last evening, as a result of arson, killing 53 dogs.

"Thanks to the help of the fire service and police," approximately 150 dogs were saved, according to the group's Facebook Page.

Also, Jason Dyer, 41, and his nephew Dean Rostock, 25, ran into the burning building after they heard the animals yelping around seven o'clock, according to the Manchester Evening News. The pair are believed to have saved 20 dogs from the flames.

Numerous local organizations assisted in transporting the surviving dogs to other kennels, and the community has been delivering blankets and food at a central drop-off point (Christchurch on Water st. harpurhey).

Businesses are stepping up too. Green Frame, a business that specializes in refurbishing reclaimed UPVC windows & doors, heard the tragic news and volunteered to donate as many windows as needed.

"We would like to help as much as we can… for the rebuild of Manchester and Cheshire dogs home."

(READ the full story from The Independent)

Photo credits: Manchester & Cheshire Dogs' Home on Facebook – Story tip from Amy