Nigel Marsh, aged 52, had briefly nipped out from his car wrapping and tinting garage, Empire Tinting & Signs, when the fire broke out on Manchester Road on February 16.
Unfortunately, both of Nigel’s young giant schnauzers, Maggie and Reuben, were killed and the entire workshop was destroyed.
Six fire engines were on site for four hours as firefighters worked to extinguish the blaze.
No cause of the fire has yet been given.
Nigel’s best friend, Edward Moore, said he received a phone call from Nigel and drove straight down to the scene.
He said: “He struggled to get the words out, but he told me the dogs were dead.
"He managed to drag Maggie out, but she had already died.
"Reuben was trapped inside and Nigel couldn’t get to him.
“It’s a horrific accident and we just want people to help in any way they can.
"He’s had the business since 1999, and he’s lost both his pets and his business at the same time.”
Another of Nigel’s friends, Jayne Pinkney, has organised the fundraiser, which has so far raised £4,310 of a £10,000 goal.
She said: “Nigel is overcome with sadness and grief both for his precious companions Maggie and Reuben, who were his life, and the loss of his business/livelihood.
“If you can find it in your heart to donate (no matter how small) or simply post a message of sympathy, his friends and family would be so very, very grateful.
“Nigel is a local lad, born and bred who would do anything for anyone; let’s help get him back on his feet.”
Donations can be made via GoFundMe page here
