Poodle, Named Phillip, Accidentally Sets Himself on Fire Walking Past Candle. Days Later, He Still Competed in a Dog Show

### Poodle Survives Fire Incident Just Days Before Crufts Show

A poodle named Phillip had a terrifying experience in his home when he accidentally caught fire while searching for food near a lit candle. The incident occurred just three days before he was due to compete at the prestigious Crufts dog show, where he ultimately achieved second place in the Toy Poodle Good Citizen category.

Phillip’s owners, Nakita O’Hare Wilson, 35, and her husband Kenneth, were shocked by the incident that took place in their living room. A video captured by their home security camera provides a glimpse into the chaotic moment when Phillip was exploring the table, sniffing around for a snack. Unfortunately, his curiosity led him too close to a burning candle, igniting a small portion of his fur.

“As he pounced on the side of the table, the hair just above his ear caught fire,” Nakita explained to SWNS. Kenneth, who was relaxing on the couch watching television, initially did not notice that Phillip had gone up in flames. It was only when Phillip’s right ear caught fire that Kenneth sprang into action, shouting warnings and attempting to extinguish the flames.

In a rush of panic, Kenneth managed to put out the fire before more serious damage could occur. However, Nakita was bewildered when she entered the room to find the aftermath. “I think the smell of burning and my husband’s reaction gave me a hint that it was not good,” she remarked, reflecting on the confusion of that moment.

Fortunately, Phillip’s grooming appointment shortly thereafter helped restore his appearance before the Crufts show. “We took him back to the groomers on the Friday, and they did such a good job,” Nakita said. After grooming, Phillip looked immaculate, and his earlier mishap was barely noticeable.

Upon competing at Crufts, Phillip garnered attention for his resilience and talent, ultimately securing second place. “I feel like a proud dog mum,” Nakita expressed, celebrating her pet’s achievement amidst the scare.

The couple, who have a total of eleven dogs—including nine miniature dachshunds and one Italian greyhound—have now made significant changes to their household to enhance fire safety. “The candle has been moved to the side table now and I have not lit one since,” Nakita said, emphasising the importance of vigilance when it comes to pets and fire hazards.

She further advised other pet owners, “No matter how well-trained or behaved your dog is, you can’t be too careful. Don’t leave lit candles in easy-to-reach places for your pets!” This alarming experience has served as a wakeup call for the couple, reaffirming their commitment to creating a safe environment for all their furry companions.

As Phillip continues to recover from his frightening ordeal, his story has resonated with many pet owners, reminding them of the potential dangers that can lurk within everyday items like candles. With increased awareness and precaution, Nakita and Kenneth strive to ensure that such incidents do not happen again.