Blackstone Fire Department Nabs PETA Award for Saving Dog From Icy Pond

Firefighter in Survival Suit Pulled Drenched Dog From Thin Ice—and She’s Been Reunited With Her Guardian

For Immediate Release:
February 22, 2018

Contact:
Audrey Shircliff 202-483-7382

A Compassionate Fire Department Award is on its way from PETA to the Blackstone Fire Department, which sprang into action on February 18 after police received a call about a dog named Rosie who had fallen though frozen-over Harris Pond. She had managed to climb onto the ice, but was still stranded when firefighters arrived on the scene. The Blackstone Police Department captured footage of firefighter Sam Blake geared up in a waterproof suit and wading through the icy pond to reach the dog. Blake comforted Rosie and gained her trust before scooping her up—and firefighters on the shore then pulled the two to safety. Rosie, cold but uninjured, has since been reunited with her family.

Courtesy of Sergeant Lewis: Blackstone Police Department

“These brave firefighters were ready and willing to navigate thin ice and freezing temperatures to rescue a scared, stranded dog,” says PETA Vice President Colleen O’Brien. “PETA hopes their kindness and swift actions will inspire everyone to look out for animals in need, especially during the dangerous winter months.”

PETA—whose motto reads, in part, that “animals are not ours to abuse in any way”—reminds all dog guardians to keep their animal companions near them on walks using a leash and a comfortable, secure harness and to keep a close eye on them when they’re outdoors.

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

For more information, please visit PETA.org.