The Minnesota State Fire Marshal's office is trying to find out what started a fire in Isanti County that destroyed a kennel, killing 18 dogs that were being boarded in the facility.
Crews were called to Waterview Kennels in Stacy early Tuesday morning to find the facility engulfed in flames and starting to collapse.
Some of the dogs reportedly belonged to the owners of the kennel, while other animals were being boarded on kept on-site for training.
"It's devastating for them and the kennel owners," said Lisa Lovering, Chief Deputy of the Isanti County Sheriffs Department. "They're pretty devastated by the fire."
Officials say the building did not have a sprinkler system, which is common for this type of pole barn-style building.
According to the kennel's website, Waterview is a full-service kennel offering boarding for dogs and cats.
The website also indicates the owners live on the property, and that the animals are never left alone.
There are reports the owner had been away in Texas training dogs and his wife was looking after the kennel.