Donated pet oxygen mask helps save dog after Grand Island fire

Photo: Grand Island Fire Department

Press release

GRAND ISLAND, Neb. — A dog rescued from a house fire earlier this week is alive thanks in part to a specialized pet oxygen mask donated to the Grand Island Fire Department by a local veterinary clinic.

Firefighters responded to a mobile home fire on March 9 that resulted in a total loss of the residence. During the response, crews found a dog inside the home that had been overcome by smoke.

Firefighters brought the dog outside and used a pet oxygen mask to administer oxygen, helping the animal begin breathing again.

The masks used during the rescue were donated to the department by the Animal Medical Clinic on July 15, 2024. The donation was intended to ensure firefighters have equipment to help pets affected by fires and other emergencies.

Grand Island Fire Chief Cory Schmidt said the equipment made a difference during the rescue.

“Our crews are trained to protect lives, and that includes pets that are part of our families,” Schmidt said. “Having specialized pet oxygen masks available allowed firefighters to immediately provide oxygen to the dog after it was rescued from the home. Without that equipment, the outcome could have been very different.”

The masks are designed to fit animals of different sizes and allow firefighters to deliver oxygen more effectively than standard equipment designed for humans.

Dr. Karla Huneke of Animal Medical Clinic said the donation was meant for situations like this and she was grateful to see the equipment used to save a pet.

“It was very heartwarming and gave me a sense of pride,” Huneke said. “It was really nice to see our efforts from that donation put to use because it’s what we wanted.”

Fire officials say smoke inhalation is one of the most common dangers for pets during a fire, as smoke can quickly deprive animals of oxygen and cause severe respiratory distress.

Officials say the rescue highlights the importance of community partnerships and donations that provide firefighters with specialized equipment.

The Grand Island Fire Department reminds residents that in the event of a fire, the priority should be getting people out of the home and calling 911. Firefighters will attempt to rescue pets when conditions allow and encourage residents to include pets in their family emergency plans.