Long Island Snowplow Driver and DPW Worker Nab PETA Awards for Rescuing Dogs During Blizzard

For Immediate Release:
February 27, 2026

Contact:
Sara Groves 202-483-7382

Compassionate Action Awards are on their way from PETA to Department of Public Works employees Kenny McGowan and Jason Koza, who sprang into action to rescue two dogs who were found running down Sunrise Highway during a record-breaking snowstorm on Monday.

After spotting the dogs while plowing the roads near Town Hall, McGowan immediately activated his sirens and followed them for almost a mile through near whiteout conditions until he reached a spot where he could safely block traffic with his truck to protect the dogs. McGowan then called Koza, who rushed to the scene with a leash, and, with the help of compassionate bystanders, the pair was able to get the dogs into Koza’s truck and transport them to a local shelter. Thanks to microchips, shelter staff were able to quickly locate the dogs’ guardian and reunite them with their family.

“These dogs could have easily frozen to death in a raging snowstorm or been hit by a car if not for the determination and swift actions of Kenny McGowan and Jason Koza,” says PETA Senior Vice President Colleen O’Brien. “PETA hopes this story will inspire everyone to look out for animals in need, especially when severe weather strikes.”

PETA notes that being outside unattended is always dangerous for companion animals, but cold weather poses even more risks—and leads to multiple deaths, injuries, and near-miss rescues each year. PETA urges guardians to bring companion animals indoors and encourages anyone who spots an animal in distress to contact their local animal control agency, a licensed wildlife rehabilitator—or, if necessary, 911—and stay with the animal until help arrives.

PETA is sending framed certificates to McGowan and Koza, along with delicious vegan chocolates.

PETA—whose motto reads, in part, that “animals are not ours to abuse in any way”—points out that Every Animal Is Someone and offers free Empathy Kits for people who need a lesson in kindness. For more information, please visit PETA.org or follow PETA on X, Facebook, or Instagram.