The Northern Lakes Fire District and Companions Animal Center are proud to announce a partnership that promises to make a life-saving difference for beloved pets in our community. Thanks to the incredible generosity of Jamie and Andy Smith of Edwards Smith Construction, the Fire District has received a gift that will profoundly impact the lives of our furry companions.
The Smiths have generously donated 20 PureVent Pet Oxygen Masks for First Responders, which will be placed on fire engines throughout Kootenai County.
The PureVent Technology incorporated into these masks enables safe and effective oxygen administration for pets, a vital tool for emergency response for our furry friends.
Each year, more than 500,000 pets are affected by house fires. Oxygen is the first line of treatment for emergency recovery, aiding in clearing a pet’s body of carbon monoxide and replenishing every cell. These oxygen mask kits come in three sizes to fit small to large pets.
“We are immensely grateful to Jamie and Andy Smith for their generous gift, which will undoubtedly save many precious lives,” said Fire Marshal Tyler Drechsel from Northern Lakes Fire District. “These masks are a game-changer for our first responders, and we can’t thank the Smiths enough for their commitment to the safety and well-being of our community’s pets.”
Companions Animal Center, formerly known as Kootenai Humane Society, has relocated to a new facility and is embracing a new name that reflects their mission of caring for our community’s animals. They rescue and adopt out thousands of pets each year, uphold a No-Kill Philosophy, secure proper care for all animals, and successfully rescue and find homes for more than 2,000 pets each year.
“This partnership with Northern Lakes Fire District aligns perfectly with our mission to provide the best possible care for animals in need,” said Vicky Nelson, Development Director from Companions Animal Center. “We are excited to showcase the life-saving capabilities of the PureVent Pet Oxygen Masks and to continue our work in rehoming and protecting the animals in our community.”
