Swift Current Firefighters Lauded for Saving Dog Who Fell Through Ice

PETA Recognizes First Responders for Putting Lifesaving Ice-Rescue Skills to Work

For Immediate Release:
December 7, 2017

Contact:
Megan Wiltsie 202-483-7382

A Compassionate Fire Department Award is on its way from PETA to the Swift Current Fire Department, which sprang into action last week when a dog fell through the ice on a creek after he was let off the leash during a walk. Firefighters arrived on the scene with ice suits in tow and quickly got to work, sending one member—who was attached to a rope—out onto the ice to grab the animal. Crews on dry land then pulled the two to shore, where the dog, who was shaken but uninjured, was reunited with his relieved guardian. Video footage of the rescue is available here.

“These firefighters arrived on the scene with technical training and big hearts to save this dog from a freezing and frightening predicament,” says PETA Vice President Colleen O’Brien. “PETA is recognizing the Swift Current Fire Department for being ready and willing to help both humans and 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 using a leash and a comfortable, secure harness and to keep a close eye on them when they’re outdoors.

The Swift Current Fire Department will receive a framed certificate, a box of delicious vegan cookies, a letter of congratulations, and a copy of The Engine 2 Diet, a Texas firefighter’s 28-day plan for staying in prime firefighting shape by eating vegan meals.

In February 2016, the department rescued a deer who had fallen though ice on the same creek.

For more information, please visit PETA.org.