Post by gs3835 on Feb 16, 2009 13:34:02 GMT -5
A local dog was rescued recently when the River Rouge Fire Department used a special oxygen mask made for animals to save its life.The unusual donation came from a River Rouge High School teacher.
Eula Grooms, a social studies and welding teacher, saw an article about a dog rescued from a fire and realized that the mask used to save its life was designed for people.
The mask, Grooms said, was too large for the animal.
Then she learned about pet-friendly oxygen masks and began purchasing them to donate to Downriver fire departments.
Other animals in dangerous situations have benefited from Grooms’ donations, as well. Police department canines wear bulletproof vests that she donated.
“I do a lot of work with WAG Animal Rescue, and I do volunteer service with the Wyandotte pound, too,” she said. “I’ve been with WAG for at least 15 years.”
While some fire departments showed little interest in the masks, others accepted the offer. The River Rouge Fire Department received its donation a few years ago.
Prior to the dog’s rescue after a recent fire call, the department had not used the special mask before.
“The fire happened at 8 a.m. Jan. 20,” said River Rouge Fire Chief Robert Alderman. “Fortunately, we had eight firefighters available.”
The firefighters put out the residence fire, and made sure everyone had gotten out safely. Then they found the dog, overcome by smoke and unconscious, hiding in a corner inside the home.
“The mask gave the dog a second chance,” Alderman said.
The mask was on the dog for about 30 minutes, he said. Before firefighters cleared the scene, the dog was conscious and seemed to be doing fine, he said.
When Grooms learned that her donation had saved its first life, she was thrilled.
“It saved a dog? That’s wonderful,” she said. “I have a big grin. That’s wonderful.”
She offered a suggestion for other residents who would like to get involved in similar community service.
“Volunteer,” she said. “Whether at the local animal shelter or animal group. People should check to see if the local fire department has a set of oxygen masks. They can’t use them if they don’t have them.”
WAG Animal Rescue is a nonprofit organization dedicated to finding permanent homes for dogs and cats in Southeast Michigan.
Visit www.wag.petfinder.com to learn how to foster an animal, volunteer, or donate to the organization
This is a friend I have known for three years. I am proud to have her as a friend. This story motivated, and inspired me. She always is looking out for other people.
