MFRD Receives Early Christmas Gift From Nashville

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Murfreesboro Fire & Rescue Department received nine brand new pet oxygen mask kits Friday afternoon from the Nashville Pet Emergency Clinic (NPEC).

The kits contain three different sized masks to fit all varieties of dogs and cats. The masks are designed to fit over the animals mouth/face allowing for life-saving oxygen following smoke inhalation.

Dr. Meagan Batey spoke to a group of firefighters at MFRD Headquarters about proper first aid procedures for pets, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

Veterinarian technicians from the clinic explained other procedures for providing care to pets in an emergency situation.

“The goal of donating these masks to our local first responders is to provide training, equipment, and resources to help during some of the most challenging emergency situations,” said Christy Goodman, veterinarian technician with NPEC. The United States Fire Administration estimates that between 40,000 and 50,000 pets lose their lives to fire related injuries every year. “We hope this small gesture will make a difference for pets, families, and first responders,” she continued.

“We are truly thankful for the donation of the pet oxygen mask kits from NPEC,” said Fire Rescue Chief Mark Foulks. “Pets are very important members of the family, and having these tools may help us to save the lives of those four-legged loved ones.”

Until today’s donation, MFRD only had pet oxygen mask kits on the department’s four rescue units. “This will help us have at least one kit available for each station,” said Foulks.

The Nashville Pet Emergency Clinics have been providing after-hours emergency care for the greater Nashville and surrounding areas since 1977. They have three AAHA accredited, conveniently located state of the art facilities in Goodlettsville, Nashville, and Murfreesboro.