Sonoma County Sheriff’s Office Receives PETA Award for Daring Rescue of Dog

Terrified Animal Plucked From Sheer Cliffside by Deputy Dangling From Chopper

For Immediate Release:
March 18, 2014

Contact:
David Perle 202-483-7382

On the afternoon of March 15, the Sonoma County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call from a woman who said that her dog Oreo had become stuck about 40 feet down a nearly sheer 90-foot cliff at Portuguese Beach. According to news reports, the Sheriff’s Office dispatched a team that included a helicopter to assist in the rescue. After attempts to coax Oreo back up the bluff failed, a 100-foot-long rope attached to the belly of the helicopter was fastened to a deputy, who was then lowered to the dog’s location. The deputy was able to secure the dog, and the helicopter lifted the pair to the top of the cliff. Neither Oreo nor the deputy was injured.

For its daring and expert rescue, the Sonoma County Sheriff’s Office will receive a Compassionate Action Award from PETA.

“The compassion and heroism shown by the Sonoma County Sheriff’s Office in rescuing this scared dog from a potentially deadly predicament are inspiring,” says PETA Senior Vice President Daphna Nachminovitch. “Sonoma County is very fortunate to have brave first responders that come to the aid of both residents and their beloved animal companions.”

The Sheriff’s Office will receive a framed certificate, a letter of appreciation, and a box of delicious vegan chocolates from PETA.

For more information, please visit PETA.org.