Firefighters Gear Up in Special Suits and Venture out Onto Ice to Pull Terrified Animal to Safety
For Immediate Release:
January 4, 2012
Contact:
Kristin Richards 202-483-7382
Fargo, N.D. -- A man was walking his dog near the El Zagal golf course when he spotted another dog half submerged in the freezing Red River and clinging to a floating sheet of ice. Responding to the man's 911 call, firefighters from the Fargo Fire Department responded immediately—and donned special water-rescue suits to facilitate the procedure. One of the firefighters carefully went out onto the ice, spoke to the dog calmly and reassuringly, and pulled him to safety. The dog, Jake, was understandably shaken but otherwise seemed fine and is now back with his guardian.
For their successful and heroic lifesaving effort, the firefighters of the Fargo Fire Department will receive PETA's Compassionate Fire Department Award.
"Thanks to the dedication and know-how of these Fargo firefighters, what could have spelled tragedy for Jake had a happy ending," says PETA Executive Vice President Tracy Reiman. "Fargo should be proud of its first responders, who are prepared to protect and serve both residents and their beloved animal companions."
The fire department will receive a framed certificate, a letter of recognition, and a box of vegan chocolates.
For more information, please visit PETA.org.