Deputies Remove Discarded Peanut Butter Jar From Animal's Head, Then Perform Lifesaving Chest Compressions
For
Immediate Release:
February
13, 2012
Contact:
Kristin
Richards 202-483-7382
St. Augustine, Fla. — On February 8, St. Augustine resident Sharon Moyer went outside to see why her dogs were barking up a storm. That's when she spotted a raccoon whose head had become stuck in a discarded peanut butter jar. Moyer called the St. Johns County Sheriff's Office, which dispatched deputies to the scene—including agricultural deputy George Letts, who has experience working with wildlife. With the assistance of another deputy, Letts was able to cut the plastic jar and remove it from the raccoon's head, but the animal had passed out, apparently from lack of oxygen. Letts performed chest compressions on the raccoon, who soon regained consciousness and wandered off—somewhat dazed from the ordeal but otherwise fine.
For working diligently to save the raccoon's life, the sheriff's office will receive PETA's Compassionate Action Award.
"Thanks to the know-how and compassion of Deputy Letts and the others involved in this heartwarming rescue, this raccoon got a second chance at life," says PETA Executive Vice President Tracy Reiman. "PETA salutes the St. Johns County Sheriff's Office for standing ready to protect and serve not only human residents but also the wildlife who call the area home."
The sheriff's office will receive a framed certificate and a letter of appreciation.
For more information, please visit PETA.org.