Hillsborough deputy resuscitates cat following fire

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A man, a woman and their cat are all OK following a mobile home fire over the weekend, thanks to neighbors and Hillsborough County first responders.

The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office said the fire broke out Sunday in the Ranch Oaks Estates Mobile Home Park on Highway 301 North.

Deputies were the first to arrive. They spotted one of the residents, Melanie Caffrey, outside of the home. She’d been rescued by neighbors, but someone else was still inside.

Waiting for firefighters to arrive, deputies and neighbors used fire extinguishers and a garden hose in an attempt to weaken the flames.

Despite their efforts, it took Hillsborough County Fire Rescue crews to get the fire under control.

As soon as they were able, firefighters ran in and rescued the second resident, David Caffrey. He and Melanie were taken to the hospital, where they were both expected to recover.

Shortly after, one of the officials still on scene, Deputy Amanda "Brooke" Talbot, came across the Caffrey’s unresponsive cat. 

Officials say she used an Ambu bag meant for an infant to resuscitate him, and then gave him oxygen.

He was taken to Blue Pearl Veterinary Partners for an emergency examination, where doctors said he should be just fine.