Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office Receives PETA Award for Saving Dog in Daring Helicopter Rescue

For Immediate Release:
March 26, 2026

Contact:
Hannah Nelson 202-483-7382

A Compassionate Police Department Award is on its way from PETA to the Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office in recognition of its helicopter crew’s bravery, kindness, and determination in saving a struggling dog named Cooper from the freezing water of the Seneca River on Monday evening.

After receiving reports of a dog floundering in the middle of the icy river, a helicopter crew from the Sheriff’s Office flew to the scene and spotted Cooper struggling to stay afloat. The pilot maneuvered the helicopter as close as possible to the frigid waters while another crew member balanced on the aircraft’s skid board, secured himself, and hoisted the dog from the river—just six minutes after the initial 911 call was received. The helicopter then landed in a nearby field where Baldwinsville Fire Department personnel were waiting with blankets to warm Cooper up. Though shaken and shivering, Cooper was otherwise unharmed and was later reunited with a relieved family member.

“This dog would almost certainly have perished in the freezing water if not for the quick and courageous action of the Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office,” says PETA Founder Ingrid Newkirk. “PETA encourages everyone to follow these wonderful rescuers’ example by never hesitating to help an animal in danger.”

PETA is sending a framed certificate to the Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office, 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 Kitsfor people who need a lesson in kindness. For more information, please visit PETA.org or follow PETA on X, Facebook, or Instagram.