West Essex First Aid Squad Gets Pet Oxygen Masks

CALDWELL, NJ -- The following news release comes courtesy of the West Essex First Aid Squad. Send local news tips to [email protected]

Pet lovers in Caldwell, Essex Fells, Fairfield, North Caldwell and West Caldwell can all breathe a little easier when it comes to the welfare of their pets: the West Essex First Aid Squad has received four sets of specially designed pet oxygen masks, one for each ambulance.

Now, first responders will be able to oxygenate family pets that are rescued during house fires and other emergencies, thanks to a donation from at-home pet services provider Canine Company.

Family pets are at special risk during a home fire because they are unable to leave the house without help. An estimated 40,000 die each year from smoke inhalation. The cone-shaped pet masks are designed for a pet’s snout, which human masks do not fit.

Captain David Black expressed appreciation for the donation, noting “This is another tool the West Essex First Aid Squad now possesses to serve our community.”

In the last year, Canine Company has donated the mask kits to fire departments and first aid squads in more than 80 communities across New England, New York and New Jersey.

“Our goal is to get these in to the hands of first responders wherever our clients live so they are ready to handle an emergency involving family pets,” Renee Coughlin of Canine Company said.

And, because it is important for first responders to know there are pets in the home when responding to an emergency, Canine Company is offering free “pets inside” decals to pet parents to place on a front door or window. To request a free decal, go to https://www.caninecompany.com/topic/petdecal.aspx.

Canine Company supports pet rescue groups through its charitable Canine Gives campaign as well as donating pet oxygen masks to first responders. For information, visit www.caninecompany.com or call 800-818-3647.