FIREFIGHTER RESCUES CAT

Firefighter rescues cat and revives the kitty. THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

One lucky cat in New Bedford, Massachusetts owes its life to one terrific firefighter. The cat was rescued from a burning apartment building Tuesday by firefighter, Al Machado.

Mr. Machado fortunately noticed right away that the kitty wasn't breathing. He carried the cat outside, but started mouth-to-mouth resuscitation on the way.

Machado began performing mouth to mouth on the animal as he carried it outside. The cat, a tiger angora, is very fortunate that Machado started when he did. Cats, just as with people, can only be without oxygen for a very short period before they suffer irreversible brain damage.

The above video shows the compassionate firefighter breathing into the cat's mouth. He revived the cat, who was soon resting comfortably.

Two dogs were also saved by paramedics and animal rescue personnel who provided oxygen for them. Other pets, including a ferret and even some frogs were saved. Two other cats were not so fortunate. They died in the second-floor apartment.

The fire was believed to be the result of arson. A man and a woman were arrested and charged.

"FIREFIGHTER RESCUES CAT" is a very sad story in spite of the heroic and successful efforts of Mr. Machado and other animal rescuers. Two cats that didn't have to die and didn't deserve to die lost their lives painfully at the hands of two very cruel individuals.

During my years as a veterinarian, I have, unfortunately, been through similar sad experiences with clients. I have witnessed the death of several helpless animals from fire and on some occasions helped to save some on the brink of death. It is a very painful way to lose a beloved pet. I can't imagine how painful it must be when the cause is deliberate arson.

My heart goes out to the animals that suffered and the two cats that lost their lives. I'm sure yours does too. "FIREFIGHTER RESCUES CAT" is a story of joy also. Mr. Machado is to be commended for caring enough and paying close enough attention to recognize the cat's distress and give the breath of life to that little furry mouth.

AP Article and Video Rewrite and Comments by Dr. Neely

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