In a dramatic incident this week, more than 60 dogs, predominantly Chihuahuas, were rescued from a house fire in eastern Hemet. These dogs are now in urgent need of new homes as local shelters struggle to accommodate the sudden surge in their population.

The fire erupted around 1 p.m. on Thursday at a residence located on the 43100 block of Merriwood Drive, according to Riverside County fire officials. The exact cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Firefighters bravely entered the smoke-engulfed home and managed to save dozens of animals, including both cats and dogs, from the flames, officials reported.

Following the rescue, animal control teams gathered the 60 surviving dogs and transported them to the San Jacinto Valley Animal Campus. These animals are now waiting there, hoping to be adopted into loving families.

The shelter, however, is facing a major challenge: it is already operating far beyond its capacity.

Authorities have disclosed that with the arrival of the new dogs, the facility is now at an overwhelming 300% occupancy, highlighting the urgent need for community assistance and adoption.

“This type of large-scale rescue requires all of our teams to jump into action,” said Animal Services Field Commander Lesley Huennekens. “Now we need the public’s help to give these dogs a home.”

Across the county system, more than 1,000 dogs are currently in shelters, and space is running out fast.

To move animals out quickly, officials have waived all adoption fees through March. The deal includes spay/neuter surgery, vaccinations, a microchip and an engraved ID tag.

The shelter system is struggling to keep up with the steady flow of animals. In January alone, 1,694 dogs came in, while only 1,237 left through adoption, owner reunions, or rescue transfers.

Residents can walk into shelters without an appointment to adopt or foster.

Meanwhile, questions remain about the home where the fire broke out.

According to the Riverside County Planning Department, most properties in East Hemet are allowed just one to four dogs without a kennel permit — or up to 25 with a special permit.

It’s unclear whether the homeowner had one and authorities have not said whether any citations will be issued.

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