[StinkyT]

I don't think firefighters will go into a burning building specifically to find a very frightened cat who no doubt could be hiding in numerous places. You have to remember, firefighters don't know the layout of houses and most buildings. They don't have time to feel out every square feet, in a fire the smoke is so dark and thick they have to rely on their hands and they CANNOT see past their masks. Also, about that "no time" comment, under the right conditions a building can be engulfed in flames in a matter of minutes. The firefighters cannot risk being trapped in a confined space where the temperature soars to hundred of degrees, they would literally cook to death even if the fire doesn't reach them.

Their priorities are human victims and themselves. It is sad that animals are left behind but those are the facts of life. I'm sorry to hear the firefighters you mentioned left the dogs behind, but remember, they have to think of their own safety. They are faced with terrified and therefore possibly unpredictable animals, not the happy, loving furballs you've raised and know.