PETS in Ludlow and south Shropshire now have a better chance of survival if they get caught up in a fire.

A set of masks that can be used on animals ranging from a hamster to a large dog have been presented to the Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service.

“The Pet Oxygen Masks are specifically designed for use on animals that are suffering from smoke inhalation,” said Martin Huckle, watch manager at the Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service.

“They can be used on animals ranging in size from a hamster to a large dog and they are very effective.

“Since their introduction Shropshire Fire & Rescue Service have used the sets twice.

“Thanks to the immense generosity of local businesses and the public, Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service needs just one more set of Pet Oxygen Masks to become the first fire service in the country to have sets on every one of its 28 frontline appliances.”

The latest masks were provided by the Shrewsbury Dog Training Club.