PORTAGE PARK — Bambi, a russet-colored Labrador who raced back inside a burning Portage Park two-flat to save a relative, is back with her family, according to officials at the veterinary clinic where she was treated.
The 4-year-old Labrador, called a hero by members of the Domaradzki family in the Tribune after running back into the family's burning home early Tuesday morning, was discharged from the hospital Thursday night after inhaling smoke and being treated with oxygen, said Kathleen Braun, an assistant at Premier Veterinary Clinic in Avondale.
The clinic launched an online effort to raise $5,000 to cover the dog's medical expenses, which are significant because she needed oxygen treatment during her two-and-half-day hospital stay, Braun said.
"She will need a lot of rest and some rehabilitation, but is expected to do well," the clinic said in a statement.
As of Monday morning, 89 people had given approximately $2,850 to cover Bambi's care. If the effort raises more money than need to cover the dog's medical bills, it will be donated to the Domaradzki family the help them recover from the fire.
"She's a good dog," Braun said.
After escaping the blaze in the 5100 block of West Grace Street, Bambi ran back inside to find 69-year-old Peter Domaradzki, the Tribune reported. Both had to be rescued by firefighters.
Domaradzki was taken to the hospital in critical condition. An update on his condition was not available Friday.
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