Both the pet and its owner need medical attention for smoke inhalation, and firefighters advise that hair dryers and hair straighteners should always be unplugged when not in use.
It is alleged that a dog ignited a fire by accidentally turning on a hairdryer.
On Christmas Eve, the Essex Fire Service was dispatched to Hockley to locate a smoldering fire in a bedroom.
They suspect the dog leaped on the bed and activated the hairdryer, causing the mattress to catch fire.
The dog awaited the homeowner’s return by the front entrance. Both need medical attention for smoke inhalation.
Gary Shinn, the manager of the watch, advised people to always disconnect electrical items when they are not in use.
He said: “The homeowner was absent and returned to find her home filled with smoke.
“We believe a hairdryer left plugged in and on a bed ignited the fire.
“We believe that the dog then jumped on the bed and activated the hairdryer, igniting the mattress and blankets.
“Please disconnect any electrical equipment, such as hairdryers and straighteners, once you have done using them.
“The homeowner never imagined for a second that her dog would switch on the hairdryer, but disconnecting something offers you peace of mind.”
