Macopin Firefighters Receive PETA Award for Dramatic Rescue of Dog

First Responders Retrieve Terrified Animal From Frozen Lake

For Immediate Release:
January 22, 2016

Contact:
Lakisha Ridley 202-483-7382

Courtesy of PETA, a Compassionate Fire Department Award is on its way to Macopin Volunteer Fire Company No. 4, which came to the rescue of a 6-month-old German shepherd who had fallen through the ice on a lake near his home. Using a sled and cold-water survival suits, first responders crawled out onto the lake as the frightened dog struggled and ice cracked beneath them. Chief Darren Williams jumped into the water, and after several minutes, he and another rescuer were able to pull the dog from the water. The dramatic rescue can be seen here.

“These courageous rescuers were all that stood between this dog and a frigid, terrifying death,” says PETA Senior Director Colleen O’Brien. “PETA hopes this will inspire others 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”—reminds all dog guardians to keep their animal companions near them on walks with a leash and a comfortable, secure harness and to keep a close eye on them when they’re outside.

Macopin Volunteer Fire Company No. 4 will receive a box of delicious vegan cookies as well as a framed certificate and a copy of The Engine 2 Diet—a Texas firefighter’s 28-day plan for staying in prime firefighting shape by eating a plant-based diet.

For more information, please visit PETA.org.