A fire, believed to have started when dogs jumped up to knock items off a stove, significantly damaged a Belgrade home Saturday.

Efforts to save the two canines were unsuccessful, Shannon Moss, spokeswoman for the Maine Department of Public Safety, said in a news release.

Moss said the Office of State Fire Marshal responded to the scene at 138 Augusta Road to help the Belgrade Fire Department identify the cause.

“Investigators determined the fire originated in the kitchen,” her release stated. “Evidence suggests the dogs likely jumped toward the stove to reach items on top, inadvertently igniting the burner. The fire caused significant fire damage. The fire has been ruled accidental.”

The Belgrade Fire Department responded to the fire around 11 a.m. and was able to extinguish the fire, said Moss.

Crews located and attempted to save two dogs found inside the home, but despite life-saving efforts, both died, Moss said.

The homeowners were away at the time. Several mutual aid departments assisted the Belgrade Fire Department at the scene, Moss said. She offered the following safety warning:

“The fire marshal’s office reminds all residents that our curious pets can accidentally start house fires. We urge pet owners to never leave food, trash, or items on your stovetop and use stove knob covers or child-safety locks to prevent pets from accidentally turning on burners. Keep your kitchen clear and your pets safe.”