In what is a suspected case of arson, a fire claimed the lives of at least 53 dogs at the Manchester Dogs Home last night.

It is believed that the incident took place shortly after 7pm, and hit the kennel section of the building, which is why so many dogs were caught in the blaze, unable to escape.

The emergency services acted quickly however, responding to the news, and managed to save over 150 dogs from the burning building.

 The charity's Just Giving page has been inundated with donations as a result, and they have raised nearly £400,000 in less than 24 hours. Residents also turned up with donations of blankets and food to do what they could for the animals who had been affected by this terrible act and those who were trying to rescue them.

The police are currently investigating the fire, and have arrested a 15-yeard-old boy in connection with the attack, according to the updates provided on their Twitter account.

Via The Irish Examiner.Main pic via Greater Manchester Police on Twitter