Five specially designed oxygen masks were donated to Miramar Fire Rescue, Wednesday — to resuscitate pets that suffer from smoke inhalation during a fire.
“In the kit there are three different sized masks that are designed to fit over the snout of a dog or cat or any other pet’s nose much better than a human oxygen mask,” said Eric Wolfram, general manager of Invisible Fence of Florida.
An estimated 40,000 pets die across the country every year from smoke inhalation, he said.
Miramar firefighters have lots of first-hand experience with pet rescues.
“Oh, all kinds of animals,” said firefighter-paramedic Gina Hudson. “Out of structure fires, I’ve pulled snakes, dogs, cats, bearded dragons, all kinds of strange lizards, birds, a hedgehog, iguanas, any kind of exotic pet, I’ve come across it.”
The pet masks can be attached to any oxygen tank because the hose connections are universal, she said.
It’s not uncommon for a scared animal to hide when a fire breaks out. If found and rescued, some are distressed and put up a fight when an oxygen mask is applied.
Human oxygen masks are a poor fit for animals. Much of the oxygen escapes and the pet is not resuscitated as quickly as it needs to be.
Each of Miramar’s 10 fire rescue vehicles are now equipped with human and pet oxygen masks. The newly donated masks have been added to the five firefighters had in stock.
“We always made do with what we have, but now we have the right tool for the right job,” said Deputy Fire Chief Erik Dodge.
Invisible Fence started this program in 2006 and since then more than 25,000 pet oxygen masks have been donated to fire departments across the country, Wolfram said.
“We hope that they never have to be used, but we want them readily available in every [fire rescue] vehicle," he said.
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