SOUTH BEND, Ind. -

First responders with the Cleveland Township Fire Department now have the equipment to save the lives of animals thanks to a generous donation. 

Two pet oxygen mask kits were donated to the department by Invisible Fence of South Bend as part of the “Project Breathe” program. 

According to the brand, the masks allow firefighters and EMS staff to help pets who are suffering from smoke inhalation during a fire. 

“When a family suffers the tragedy of a fire, lives are turned upside down. Pets are valued family members, so we want families to know that their pet can be cared for if tragedy strikes,” said Ed Hoyt, Director of Invisible Fence Brand.

The brand has supplied masks to other surrounding cities and says the goal is to equip every fire station in American and Canada with the masks.