Fire officials are reporting that nine dogs died Sunday in a fire at Rowan Animal Clinic on Statesville Boulevard.

The fire began around 1:30 in the morning at the clinic, and it took several hours to get the blaze under control.  The building is reported to be a total loss.

Some of the animals that died there had just undergone procedures.  Others were being boarded there.

A passerby reported the blaze, and when firefighters arrived on the scene, flames could be seen emanating from the building.  Officials say the dogs died from smoke inhalation.  The cause of the blaze is not yet known.