Danvers Fire Department Receives Donation of Life-Saving Pet Oxygen Masks from Perfect Paws Ministry

In an effort to protect every member of the family—human and animal alike—The Perfect Paws Pet Ministry, an outreach ministry of All Saints Episcopal Church of the North Shore, proudly presented specialized pet oxygen mask kits to Brian Barry, Chief of the Danvers Fire Department. The presentation was made by members of the Perfect Paws Advisory Board, accompanied by their certified therapy dogs.

This donation marks a key milestone in Perfect Paws’ partnership with the Massachusetts Veterinary Medical Association (MVMA) Charities, which is aimed at equipping first responders across the North Shore with pet oxygen mask kits. Each kit, valued at $125, is designed to deliver emergency oxygen to pets suffering from smoke inhalation or trauma—providing first responders with critical tools when seconds count.

“Pets are cherished members of our families, and they deserve the same compassionate care as we do during emergencies,” said Fran Weil, Pet Chaplain and founder of Perfect Paws. “We hope this gift provides added support to our community heroes who protect Danvers and other North Shore communities every day.”

Chief Brian Barry expressed his gratitude for the donation, noting its importance to the department’s emergency response capabilities:

“We didn’t have pet oxygen masks before, and although I hope we never have to use them, they are a valuable resource to have on our trucks. We’re grateful to Perfect Paws for thinking of much-loved animal family members.”

With nearly 30,000 fire incidents reported annually in Massachusetts—many in residential homes—the need for pet-specific emergency equipment is urgent. MVMA’s Pet Oxygen Mask Program aims to equip every emergency response vehicle in the state, and Perfect Paws is helping make that goal a reality, one kit at a time.

Since the program’s launch in late 2022, nearly 200 kits have been distributed across New England. Perfect Paws invites the public to join this life-saving initiative by donating to the MVMA oxygen mask fund. To learn more or download the official flyer for sharing, visit: https://tinyurl.com/Pet02Flyer

Now celebrating 15 years of service, Perfect Paws Pet Ministry continues to offer compassionate programs for pets and their people, including veterinary companioning, pet loss bereavement support by certified counselors, therapy dog certification, monthly worship services, and community pet food drives.

Perfect Paws Pet Ministry: Compassion for Every Creature.