The devices are basically oxygen masks for pets, and each set comes with three different sizes to handle sizes from a kitten to a Saint Bernard.
“We did training with the entire fire department on how to use the masks, what the oxygen flow rates are and scenarios where they would be appropriate,” said Fire Lt. Athena Haus. “We also did a safety message on animals that they need to secure, how to safely muzzle those animals, and how to keep crews from being injured.”
Haus said fire and EMS crews already have to be aware of pets on many calls because they can be unpredictable, especially if their owner is injured.
But if the animal will tolerate the mask, it could make a life-saving difference for a pet removed from a fire. Haus said the smaller lungs of cats and dogs can be more easily overcome by smoke, adding that soot around the nose or throat is a good indication that there’s a problem. And while Haus herself is an animal lover who has raised search-and-rescue dogs, she emphasized that fire crews’ priorities won’t change.
“Obviously we’re not going to stop fighting the fire to do this stuff,” she said. “This is just an extra tool to be able to manage the situation.”
Contact this reporter at (937) 225-2278 or jkelley@DaytonDailyNews.com.
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