Spotsylvania First Responders Receive PETA Award for Rescuing Dog Stuck in Dam

Firefighter Rappels 75 Feet to Reach Stranded Dog

For Immediate Release:
May 13, 2015

Contact:
Shakira Croce 202-483-7382

Courtesy of PETA, a Compassionate Fire Department Award and a Compassionate Action Award are on their way to Spotsylvania County firefighters and the Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Office, respectively, for responding to a call for assistance after Dixie the dog slid nearly 75 feet from the top of a dam down a steep embankment. Rescuers worked for nearly an hour, using rope rescue equipment to lower a firefighter down to the dog and pull her to safety. Dixie was reportedly unharmed and has been reunited with her guardians.

“Thanks to these courageous first responders, this dog’s misstep did not become a tragedy,” says PETA Senior Director Colleen O’Brien. “PETA hopes their determination 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.

The Spotsylvania County Department of Fire, Rescue, and Emergency Management and the Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Office will each receive a framed certificate and a box of delicious vegan cookies—and the firefighters will also receive 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.