Donated Pet Oxygen Mask Helps Grand Island Firefighters Save Dog

Grand Island, Neb. — A dog rescued from a house fire earlier this week is alive today thanks in part to a specialized pet oxygen mask donated to the Grand Island Fire Department by the team at Animal Medical Clinic.

Grand Island firefighters responded to a mobile home fire on March 10 that ultimately resulted in a total loss of the residence. During the response, crews located a dog that had been overcome by smoke inside the home. Firefighters quickly brought the dog outside and used a pet oxygen mask to administer oxygen, helping the animal to begin breathing again.

The pet oxygen masks used in the rescue were donated to the department by Animal Medical Clinic on July 15, 2024 as part of an effort to ensure firefighters have the tools needed to care for pets affected by fires and other emergencies. Grand Island Fire Chief Cory Schmidt said the equipment made a meaningful 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 with standard equipment designed for humans. Dr. Karla Huneke of Animal Medical Clinic said the donation was intended for exactly this type of situation, and when she heard it successfully saved a dog’s life, she couldn’t stop smiling.

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

Smoke inhalation is one of the most common and dangerous risks for pets during a fire. Even if animals survive the flames, smoke can quickly deprive them of oxygen and cause severe respiratory distress.

Fire officials say the successful rescue highlights the importance of community partnerships and the impact that donations like this can have in emergency situations.

“This is a great example of how local partnerships make a real difference,” Schmidt said. “Because of the generosity of Animal Medical Clinic, our firefighters had the equipment needed to give this dog a second chance.”

The Grand Island Fire Department reminds residents that if a fire occurs, the priority should always be getting people safely out of the home and calling 911. Firefighters will then work to rescue pets if conditions allow. The department also encourages residents to include pets in their family emergency planning and to ensure homes are equipped with working smoke alarms.