In case of fires and animals are in danger, there are now oxygen masks for pets

Rescuers in the German town of Delmenhorst have acquired respiratory masks for house pets in three sizes - suitable for dogs, hamsters and parakeets. Photo: Carmen Jaspersen/dpa

When the fire brigade marches out, it’s not just a matter of saving human lives. Emergency forces frequently have to save house pets that suffer from smoke poisoning. That’s why the first fire brigades are now upgrading their equipment.

In the United States, so-called pet oxygen masks have been around for a long time, and fire brigades in Europe are now starting to follow suit. Rescue workers in Britain have been seen testing pet oxygen masks, while rescuers in the German town of Delmenhorst have acquired respiratory masks for house pets in three sizes – suitable for dogs, hamsters and parakeets.