Cause For Paws-Pet Oxygen Masks

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'Cause for Paws' push

HARRISON — A local kennel has donated pet oxygen masks to six central Westchester fire departments and launched a community campaign to outfit other emergency teams with them.

Best Friends Balmoral Kennel, which is leading the "Cause for Paws" campaign, will match all contributions toward masks for fire departments within 15 miles of the Harrison kennel.

"Pets are at greater risk of suffering smoke inhalation during a fire than their owners because they often hide inside the home," said Balmoral manager Chris Carpanzano. "Human oxygen masks aren't useful for resuscitating animals because they don't fit properly over the pet's snout."

The cone-shaped masks, which cost $50, come in three sizes. Balmoral staffers are delivering 23 sets to departments serving Harrison, Purchase, Port Chester, Rye Brook, Rye, Larchmont and the town and village of Mamaroneck.

Contributions can be made by visiting or calling Balmoral, at 590 Harrison Ave., 914-967-1721, or Best Friends White Plains, 114 S. Kensico Ave., 914-997-0600.

Those who donate in person can get a decal for their door or window to let rescue workers know there are pets in the home. For more information, visit www.bestfriendspetcare.com

and click on the "Rescue Masks" link.

[JohnnyOV 2]

From the first time these masks were introduced, i thought they were a silly idea, you can just use a adult mask and also the "it will never happen here" mind set. But after the fire in Mohegan this past week, I see that there really is a need for them, and im glad someone took the iniative to design and make a animal mask work!