Rescue of Dog From Rubble Shows Importance of Safeguarding Animals During Natural Disasters
For Immediate Release:
June 8, 2011
Contact:
Kristin Richards 202-483-7382
Monson, Mass. — Shadow, a 6-month-old dog, was swept from his home by an advancing tornado on June 1. After the devastating storm passed, his family searched for him, called local animal shelters, and posted Shadow's pictures on Facebook. The situation looked grim until three days later when a neighbor flagged down State Trooper Brian Pearl and led him to the wreckage of a nearby house where a frightened dog—trapped under the debris—was barking. After putting on knee and elbow pads to protect himself from splintered wood and broken glass, Pearl got down in the rubble and pulled the dog to safety. Hungry, exhausted, and no doubt scared by the ordeal, Shadow emerged miraculously uninjured and was soon reunited with his grateful family. For his efforts, Pearl will receive PETA's Compassionate Action Award.
"Thanks to the kind actions of Trooper Pearl, a dog who could have died has been reunited with his family," says PETA Executive Vice President Tracy Reiman. "This moving rescue is a compelling reminder that all members of the family—including dogs, cats, and other animals—deserve help in an emergency."
When tornados and other disasters strike, PETA issues urgent appeals for rescue teams to keep an eye out for animals in trouble and to call local animal control or animal rescue agencies with information about animals of any species who are injured, trapped in the rubble, lost, or abandoned, and, if that fails, to call PETA. The group also encourages residents returning to their homes to look out for animals in distress. A simple phone call can allow these agencies to rescue lost animals and hopefully reunite them with their families.
Pearl will receive a framed certificate and a box of vegan chocolates.
For more information, please visit PETA.org.