PETA Honors Paramedics for Speedy Efforts to Save Popeye
For Immediate Release:
June 27, 2011
Contact:
Kristin Richards 202-483-7382
Wilton Manors, Fla. — Last Tuesday, Fort Lauderdale Fire-Rescue paramedics came to the aid of Popeye, a bulldog mix who succumbed to heat stroke after being forced to run alongside a bicyclist. They immediately administered fluids and oxygen to the stricken animal and, with sirens blaring, rushed him to the Imperial Point Animal Hospital. The paramedics saved the dog from a painful death and won the gratitude of animal lovers across Florida. Now, to honor the fast-moving rescue workers, PETA is presenting them with its Compassionate Fire Department Award.
"Thanks to the kind actions of the paramedics, Popeye survived his frightening ordeal and will soon be adopted by a loving family," says PETA Executive Vice President Tracy Reiman. "We hope that the rescuers' kindness will inspire others always to come to the aid of animals in need—and that Popeye's narrow escape will remind all dog guardians to keep their animals cool during the summer."
Popeye's condition is reportedly improving, and he has a long line of potential adoptive families waiting for him when he recovers. But many other dogs may not be as lucky as Popeye. PETA cautions all dog guardians to take special care of their animals during hot summer months and to be wary of jogging with their dogs when temperatures climb higher than 70 degrees. Dogs will often collapse before giving up, and by that time, it could be too late. Guardians are encouraged to exercise dogs only in the mornings and evenings, when temperatures are cooler than during daytime hours—and never to force dogs to run alongside bicycles.
The fire department will receive a framed certificate and delicious vegan chocolates. Fort Lauderdale isn't the only town in south Florida with compassionate rescue workers. Earlier this year, PETA recognized the Miramar Fire-Rescue Department for rescuing a kitten who had become stuck inside a light pole.
For more information, please visit PETA.org.