Island RV fire claims five dogs

A smoldering motor home fire claimed the lives of five dogs Monday.

The fire originated in the gas stove area of the motor home parked at Outdoor Resorts,

133 Arrow Road, Hilton Head Island, on Monday evening while the owners, a Lake City, Fla., couple, were away, according to the Town of Hilton Head Island Fire & Rescue Division.

Ittook firefighters only about 10 minutes to put the fire out. Once they did, the crew discovered the bodies of the dogs inside. The animals probably died due to smoke inhalation, fire department spokeswoman Joheida Fister said.

"There wasn't any fire showing from outside, but when they got into the RV, it was filled with smoke," she said.

The vehicle sustained some heat and smoke damage, but was salvageable, authorities said.