Maryland Firefighters Nab PETA Award for Saving Dog From Sinkhole

Rescuers Retrieve Imperiled Animal Companion From 8-Foot-Deep Hole

For Immediate Release:
May 16, 2017

Contact:
Megan Wiltsie 202-483-7382

A Compassionate Fire Department Award is on its way from PETA to the Anne Arundel County Fire Department for rescuing a dog named Siri who fell down an 8-foot-deep sinkhole while outside with his guardian on Saturday. Emergency responders from the fire department’s Special Operations Confined Space Rescue Team used a special harness to lower a firefighter into the hole, retrieve the uninjured dog, and reunite him with his relieved guardian.

“The Anne Arundel County Fire Department had the skills, resources, and compassion to pull this dog to safety while keeping him calm and unhurt,” says PETA Vice President Colleen O’Brien. “PETA hopes this story will remind people to keep an eye on their dogs whenever they’re outside and to come to the aid of any animal in need.”

PETA—whose motto reads, in part, that “animals are not ours to abuse in any way”—encourages all guardians to keep their animal companions near them on walks by using a leash and a comfortable, secure harness. Yards should also be kept safe with sturdy fencing, no potentially poisonous plants or other materials, and no open manholes or pipes.

The Anne Arundel County Fire Department will receive a framed certificate, a box of delicious vegan cookies, and a copy of The Engine 2 Diet—a Texas firefighter’s 28-day plan for staying in prime firefighting shape by eating plant-based meals.

For more information, please visit PETA.org.