Utah Father and Son Receive PETA Award for Rescuing Young Mountain Goat

Good Samaritans Pluck Struggling Animal From Deep Snow Near Highway

For Immediate Release:
February 8, 2017

Contact:
Megan Wiltsie 202-483-7382

Compassionate Action Awards are on their way to Utah father and son James and Bryan Olsen, two hunters who rescued a young mountain goat who was struggling in deep snow near a busy highway. Concerned that the animal was heading toward U.S. 189 and into traffic, they called the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (DWR), which advised them to attempt a rescue.

They carried the animal back to their truck, warmed him up, and delivered him to a DWR officer. He was later examined by a veterinarian, held overnight, given fluids, fitted with a GPS tracker, and returned to a location near his herd. Wildlife officers checked on him the following day to make sure that he was safe.

“This mountain goat was able to escape a precarious situation, thanks to James and Bryan Olsen’s quick action and willingness to help,” says PETA Vice President Colleen O’Brien. “PETA hopes this story will inspire everyone to come to the aid of animals in need.”

PETA—whose motto reads, in part, that “animals are not ours to abuse in any way”—offers tips for helping wildlife on its website. The Olsens will receive framed certificates, vegan jerky, and a box of delicious vegan cookies.

For more information, please visit PETA.org.