METUCHEN — Many pet owners count their animal companions as integral members of the family, and the borough’s Fire Department has launched an initiative to help keep furry friends safe.
The Metuchen Fire Department kicked off the Pet Rescue Project on June 14 at the Metuchen Street Fair, and will continue it throughout the summer at selected weeks of the Farmers Market, held on Saturdays at the Senior Center parking lot at the corner of New and Center streets.
The public awareness campaign is aimed at raising funds for the purchase of pet-related emergency supplies to be used during fires and other emergency situations.
Pet rescue items include animal oxygen masks, kennels and carriers, harnesses and leashes and other equipment.
The goal is to maintain these assorted supplies in the firehouse for quick access during incidents in which pets are displaced or adversely affected.
To help with the fundraising effort, the Fire Department is selling custom-imprinted 32-ounce Nalgene water bottles, which are made in America. The bottles come with the extra benefit of being environmentally friendly by supporting the refill and-reuse model versus the waste associated with disposable water bottles.
For more information, visit metuchenfd.com or find the Metuchen Fire Department on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.