The City of Fairfax Fire Department has expanded the range of emergency medical services to include four-legged patients. Responding to a growing need, the department recently acquired specialized equipment and training to care for pets rescued from fires and other emergencies. According to Fire Chief Dave Rohr, “Providing skilled care for pets in these type of emergencies is an important part of what we do.” Recognizing the need, the City of Fairfax Fire Department purchased pet oxygen masks to help paramedics resuscitate animals who may have been overcome by smoke or other toxic conditions. Training on the new equipment was provided by Firefighter/Paramedic Victoria Jacobs. Jacobs, a 15-year fire service veteran, also maintains a veterinary background. Aside from the use of the masks, Jacobs also instructed her fellow firefighters how to approach and assess injured animals, proper carrying techniques for animals, basic pet first aid, and different methods to transport animals safely. The firefighters also proactively established relationships with animal control officers and area veterinarians. All City of Fairfax Fire Department fire trucks and ambulances now are equipped with the masks and oxygen. Department members have been trained and are ready to respond.