Middletown Division of Fire Nabs National PETA Award for Rescuing Dog from Icy Pond

For Immediate Release:
February 24, 2026

Contact:
Sara Groves 202-483-7382

A Compassionate Fire Department Award is on its way from PETA to the Middletown Division of Fire in recognition of their quick action and determination in rescuing a frightened dog who had fallen through the ice covering a pond near South Dixie Highway on February 19.

Just days after receiving ice-rescue training, firefighters responded to the scene and carefully pushed a ladder onto the ice to help guide the rescuer out to the frantic dog, who was then pulled to safety. The dog, named Ru Ru, was cared for by one of the firefighters until her guardian could be located, and has since been reunited with her family.

“This dog would almost certainly have died in the freezing water if not for the bravery and swift action of the Middletown Division of Fire,” says PETA Founder Ingrid Newkirk. “PETA encourages everyone to follow these rescuers’ example by never hesitating to help an animal in danger.”

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 a framed certificate to the Middletown Division of Fire, 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.