How Pet Oxygen Masks Have Now Saved Multiple Pets in Dublin
At Village Vets, we believe that pets are family. That’s why, in 2023, we partnered with Dublin Fire Brigade to introduce pet oxygen masks to fire stations across the city. These specially designed masks provide life-saving oxygen therapy to pets suffering from smoke inhalation or breathing difficulties.
And now, we know at least two beloved pets have been saved thanks to this initiative.
Firefighters to the Rescue – Biscuit’s Story
The latest rescue happened when firefighters from Dolphin’s Barn Fire Station responded to a house fire in Ballyfermot. Inside the smoke-filled home, they discovered a cat named Biscuit, unconscious from smoke inhalation.
Acting fast, Firefighter “Paw”amedic Carrick placed one of the pet oxygen masks over Biscuit’s nose and mouth, delivering vital oxygen. For ten tense minutes, Biscuit remained under their care, receiving oxygen therapy. Then, to everyone’s relief, Biscuit started to wake up—eventually snuggling into their relieved owner’s arms.
A budgie and a dog were also safely removed from the house, though they did not require oxygen therapy
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Not the First Life Saved
Biscuit’s story is heartwarming, but it’s not the first time these masks have been used to save a pet in distress.
In September 2024, Dublin Fire Brigade responded to an emergency at the Grand Canal in Clondalkin, where a dog was losing the fight to stay afloat. Firefighters arrived in time to pull the dog from the water, but it was in distress and struggling to breathe.
Once again, firefighters reached for one of the pet oxygen masks donated by Village Vets. After administering oxygen, the dog slowly recovered, thanks to the quick actions of the fire crew and the life-saving equipment at their disposal.
Why Pet Oxygen Masks Matter
In emergencies like house fires and water rescues, time is critical. Smoke inhalation and oxygen deprivation can be fatal for pets, and traditional human oxygen masks simply don’t fit properly on animals.
Our pet oxygen masks are specially designed for cats, dogs, and other small animals, ensuring oxygen is delivered effectively when it’s needed most.
Currently, nine fire appliances across two districts are trialling these masks, with plans to expand their availability across Dublin in partnership with Dublin Fire Brigade.
Keeping Your Pets Safe in an Emergency
While Biscuit and the Clondalkin dog’s stories had happy endings, it’s always best to be prepared. Here are some tips for fire safety and emergency preparedness:
🔥 Create a Pet Emergency Plan – Know where your pet’s favourite hiding spots are in case you need to evacuate.
🔥 Display a Pet Alert Sticker – These stickers let firefighters know there are pets inside, helping them prioritise rescues.
🔥 Test Smoke Alarms Regularly – The sooner you detect a fire, the faster you can get your pets to safety.
🔥 Be Cautious Near Open Water – Even strong swimmers can struggle in unexpected currents or cold temperatures.
A Community That Cares
At Village Vets, we’re committed to supporting pet owners, emergency responders, and our wider community. Seeing these masks in action, saving both Biscuit and the Clondalkin dog, reminds us why this initiative is so important.
A huge thank you to Dublin Fire Brigade for their heroic work—these rescues prove that small changes can have a huge impact on pet safety in Dublin.
