Cochise County Sheriff’s Office Nabs PETA Award for Cliffside Rescue of Dog

Search and Rescue Team Descends Dangerous Terrain to Save Dog Trapped on Ledge

For Immediate Release:
May 4, 2017

Contact:
Megan Wiltsie 202-483-7382

A Compassionate Police Department Award is on its way from PETA to the Cochise County Sheriff’s Office after its search and rescue team rushed to the aid of a dog who was trapped on a cliff in Juniper Flats near Bisbee on April 26. The first responders rappelled down the steep terrain to reach the uninjured dog, who immediately began wagging his tail and licking their faces. The rescuers strapped him into an emergency canine rescue harness and used ropes to lower him about 100 feet to safety. He was then reunited with his grateful guardian.

“Thanks to the quick action of these compassionate first responders, this dog survived his frightening ordeal and is now safe and sound,” says PETA Vice President Colleen O’Brien. “PETA hopes their good work will inspire people everywhere to come to the aid of animals in need.”

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 Cochise County Sheriff’s Office will receive a framed certificate and a box of delicious vegan cookies.

For more information, please visit PETA.org.