Residents of the greater Philadelphia area really love their pets. They have contributed thousands of dollars to Best Friends Pet Care Cause for Paws Pet Rescue Masks Campaign

The monies have come from individuals, firefighters, children and community groups. One contributor got involved because she wanted to give something back to the firemen … since they once rescued her cat from a tree!

The funds raised so far, with Best Friends match, have outfitted more than 50 Fire Departments in the Southern New Jersey/Philadelphia region. And the campaign, which began last summer, is going strong.

One of the largest supporters is The Kitty Adoption Team (KAT), an animal rescue group, which has raised several hundred dollars and continues to collect contributions. "We're grateful for the Cause for Paws program," said Diane Schwarz of KAT, "and the children in our Junior Volunteer program are especially committed to helping us raise the necessary funds to outfit more fire departments." KAT members have attended several mask presentations with "Miss Cuddles", a rescue cat, who helps demonstrate how the masks work.

Miss Cuddles isn't the only supermodel sporting the masks. Malachi, a three-year-old Akita, has been traveling to area fire stations to help deliver the masks and provide an on-site demonstration. "Malachi is enjoying every minute," says Sonya Defazio of Best Friends Willow Grove PA Pet Care Center. "He even knows how to pose with his head on a fireman's lap!"