#Middlebury
DEAR PAW’S CORNER: You often recommend that pet owners donate their money or time to local shelters, and that is great. I’ve often wondered if there are other things we can do to help our furry friends. I saw a report about a puppy that was revived after choking by a local police officer, and realized that we can help first responders by making sure they have the supplies or training needed to care for injured pets at emergency scenes. I’m just not sure where or how to donate. – Chet in Cincinnati
DEAR CHET: That’s a great idea! Increasingly, fire and police departments are providing emergency care to pets on scene during fires, accidents and natural disasters. Laws are going on the books in many states, including Colorado and Ohio, that allow first responders to provide more advanced care like giving pets oxygen, bandaging injuries or administering naloxone to counter the effects of opiates.
As to how to help first responders get the supplies or training they need to effectively treat pets – contact them. Call your city or county offices and ask who coordinates donations to these departments, then present your idea to them. Many smaller fire departments in rural areas don’t have the resources to purchase pet rescue supplies, and others need additional training. While there are some corporate sponsors who will fill specific needs – Invisible Fence Co., for example, donates pet oxygen masks through its Project Breathe initiative – other needs remain unfilled.
So, there are opportunities to help. You may need to do a little detective work, but make a few calls and you’ll find out exactly what police and firefighters need.
Send your questions, comments or tips to ask@pawscorner.com.
© 2018 King Features Synd. Inc.
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