San Francisco Fire Department Nabs PETA Award for Cliffside Rescue of Dog

First Responders Descend Dangerous Cliff to Save Corgi Trapped on Rocks

For Immediate Release:
September 26, 2016

Contact:
Megan Wiltsie 202-483-7382

Compassionate Fire Department Awards are on their way from PETA to the San Francisco Fire Department’s Battalion 07; Engine 14, Truck 14; and Engine 18 and Surf Rescue1 after they rushed to the aid of a Corgi who was trapped on the cliffs of Ocean Beach at 32^nd Avenue and El Camino Del Mar on September 18. While aiding a man nearby, the first responders saw the dog bolt down the cliffs and become trapped between the rocks and the water. They sprung into action, hoisting the pup to safety using an emergency harness, while onlookers cheered. The dog had no injuries.

“Thanks to the quick action of these compassionate first responders, this dog is safe and sound,” says PETA Vice President Colleen O’Brien. “PETA cautions everyone to keep dogs out of harm’s way by never leaving them unattended when they’re outdoors and always using a leash and a secure, comfortable harness on walks.”

PETA—whose motto reads, in part, that “animals are not ours to abuse in any way”—notes that in addition to protecting all canine and human beachgoers, keeping dogs leashed also helps protect shorebirds. Signs posted throughout Ocean Beach remind visitors that it’s protected land for the threatened western snowy plover, a shorebird whose migratory patterns can be disrupted by the stress of encountering dogs.

The first responders will each receive a framed certificate and a box of delicious vegan cookies.

For more information, please visit PETA.org.