Weather
Local NewsPets Breathe Sigh of ReliefBy Jonathan Vigliotti
WAUKESHA - They have been used by veterinarians for years. But now Waukesha based Smiths Medical PM Inc. is helping distribute pet oxygen masks to firefighters across the country.
Officials with Smiths Medical say the specialized masks will save more animals' lives.
The Milwaukee Fire Department rescues more animals from fires than people. But even if a household pet is pulled alive from a burning building veterinarians say they still can die from smoke inhalation and lack of oxygen.
"In the past firefighters have tried to use masks they used for humans, but a lot of oxygen blows past the animal," said Brandi Marks with Smiths Medical.
The pet product supplier distributes the Australian-made masks. A set of three costs about $70. Fire departments like the idea.
"I would think it would be something we could use if we got them. The problem is our budget is very slim as it is, so we don't have money for that apparatus," said Lt. Brain O'Connor with the Milwaukee Fire Department.
Pet advocacy groups understand this budget crunch and have been taking in donations. So far, 2,500 masks have been given to fire stations across the country, including the Sheboygan Fire Department.
You can't buy these pet oxygen masks on your own. If you're interested in getting your local fire station a set of these masks, you can talk to your local veterinarian or animal advocacy group.
Smiths Medical PM, Inc. Veterinary Division
|
On Demandadvertisement |
