Pet Oxygen Masks Now In Service at the Manassas Fire and Rescue Department

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January 2012

Four sets of veterinary-grade oxygen delivery masks for animals obtained by the City of Manassas Fire and Rescue Department from a program called "Petmask.com" are now in service on two Medic Units and ready for use if the need arises.

PetMask.com was created in 2008 by then 10-year-old "Monica" to raise money to purchase special Pet Rescue & Resuscitation Oxygen Masks. 

The mask kits are donated to Firefighters, EMS Units, and Police K9 Units.  The cone-shaped plastic masks, which come in three different sizes and fit snugly on snouts, can resuscitate animals suffering from smoke inhalation.

This mask set is so versatile it should take care of just about any air breathing animal species from a tiny bird or reptile to a Saint Bernard dog.  The masks are economical, reusable, sturdy and easily cleaned, and they have a two-year manufacturer warranty.

Fire and Rescue Chief Brett Bowman stated, "The City of Manassas Fire and Rescue Department recognizes that pets are an important part of our citizens' family and that they are vulnerable to smoke inhalation because they hide in fear of the smoke and fire.  These devices will aid the firefighters and medics in possibly saving pets that are affected by the toxic smoke of a fire."

The masks also help to protect rescuers from an injured animal who may try to bite them out of fear as well as provide a fit for the animal that improves the effectiveness of the oxygen being delivered.

In the event of a fire in your home and if you have a pet that is capable of moving about, citizens are reminded to evacuate immediately and call for the animal to follow you.  Never re-enter the structure. 

If a pet is still inside the house, be sure to tell firefighters of its location. They will work to extinguish the fire and if possible rescue the animal.



Author:Manassas Fire & Rescue Press Release