Life-Saving Equipment for Pets Donated To Marlborough Fire Department

MARLBOROUGH, MA — The Marlborough Fire Department has received a donation of three sets of pet oxygen masks – one for each station in the city -- from at-home pet services provider Canine Company.

The special equipment will help firefighters resuscitate family pets they rescue during home fires and other emergencies. The donation was requested by Marlborough Firefighter Bryan D’Antonio, pictured in the photo with firefighter Michael Burnell (right) trying out one of the department’s new pet oxygen masks on Chloe.

Family pets are at special risk in home fires because they are often unable to leave the house. An estimated 40,000 die each year from smoke inhalation because human oxygen masks don't fit over their snouts. The cone-shaped pet masks donated by Canine Company are designed specifically for animals and each set includes masks in three sizes for a wide range of pets – from small mammals to giant breed dogs. They connect to standard oxygen tanks the rescue teams carry.

To help ensure firefighters know there are pets in need of rescue, Canine Company is offering Marlborough residents free “pets inside” decals that can be placed on a front door or window. To request a decal, go to https://www.caninecompany.com/topic/petdecal.aspx.

“Our company was founded by a family of pet lovers and our mission is to help other families keep their pets healthy, safe and happy,” said Renee Coughlin of Canine Company. “We do that with the services we offer and it’s the focus of our charitable programs, too.”

Last year, the company donated masks to more than 60 communities across the Northeast, including eight in Massachusetts: Acton and Pepperell Fire Departments in Middlesex County; Franklin, Needham and Millis Fire Departments in Norfolk County; Grafton and Hubbardston Fire Departments in Worcester; and West Bridgewater Fire Department in Plymouth.

Canine Company provides at-home services to keep pets healthy, safe and happy. The company serves families across New England, New York and New Jersey with the Invisible Fence® Brand pet containment system, Manners dog obedience training, and mobile grooming and pet sitting in select markets. Its charitable Canine Gives campaign supports pet rescue groups and donates pet oxygen masks to first responders. For information visit www.caninecompany.com or call 800-818-3647.