Daniel Ray

Oxygen Masks for Pets Donated to Delaware County's First Responders

The mask helps a pet breathe if they get caught in a fire or another emergency situation, and can also help pets recover from smoke inhalation.

A local animal wellness center is not only giving back to first responders, but also giving families the tools to keep pets safe during a fire.

Chadds Ford’s Animal Wellness Center is run by Dr. Rose DiLeva. On Wednesday she and her team presented a $3,000 donation to Delaware County’s Hero Fund, which helps support children of fallen first responders. The contribution was sponsored by the Glen Mills Thornbury Rotary, a non-profit which supports local Delaware County businesses and organizations.

Joined by the county’s police, fire, and emergency personnel, Dr. DiLeva also donated 20 new oxygen masks made for dogs, cats, and small pets to the first responders.

The mask helps a pet breathe if they get caught in a fire or another emergency situation, and can also help pets recover from smoke inhalation.

They come in three sizes and are structured to conform to the animal’s face, so even smaller pets like gerbils and rabbits can use the mask. They are compatible with a standard oxygen mask found for people.

For families devastated by a fire, Dr. DiLeva says the masks play a role in keeping families intact.

“Pets are important, and are very much a part of the family," he said.

Dr. DiLeva says a set of three masks costs around $100. Anyone interested in getting a set for their family is asked to reach out to her here.

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