Miami-Dade Fire-Rescue crews had a special opportunity to review the latest techniquesi n care for animals pulled from housef ires when Dr. Marta Sanchez of the Animal Health and Rehab Center, South Miami, and staff reviewed latest guidelines to help save animals rescued from fires.
Although there are not many advanced treatments we can perform in the field, the basics can sometimes save a pet’s life. Even basic care can give loved ones the comfort of knowing something was done for this little member of their family.
For structure fire responses, three different pet mask sizes are kept on every EMS Captain and Battalion Chief unit. This allows us to provide snout-sized oxygen, the primary antidote for carbon monoxide inhalation at fires.
While the care standard emphasizes oxygen, Dr. Suarez contributed to the best care for handling pets suffering from smoke inhalation as well as other animal resuscitation details. Thanks again to Dr. Sanchez, her staff and little pug Lola, all of whom provided a great learning environment.
