First Responders Net PETA Award for Timely Rescue of Elderly Man and Dog
Pair Pulled From Submerged Car Now Safe
For Immediate Release:
October 30, 2015
Contact:
Lakisha Ridley 202-483-7382
A Compassionate Action Award is on its way to the Texas Task Force 1 Swiftwater Rescue Team, which came to the aid of an 80-year-old man and his dog after heavy rain and rising floodwaters trapped them on a highway off ramp. After locating the submerged car, first responders were able to pull both to safety through the car window. The pair is now recuperating.
“Thanks to the persistence and bravery of these first responders, this man and his animal companion survived a terrifying ordeal and are safe together,” says PETA Senior Director Colleen O’Brien. “PETA hopes their kindness will inspire others to come to the aid of both people and animals in need whenever they encounter them.”
The Texas Task Force 1 Swiftwater Rescue Team will receive a framed certificate and a box of delicious vegan cookies.
PETA, whose motto reads, in part, that “animals are not ours to abuse in any way,” offers the following tips for keeping animal companions safe during a flood:
- Have your animals microchipped, and put secure, legible ID tags on them.
- Never leave your animals outdoors, tied up, or confined in any way, as they will be trapped and unable to flee rising waters.
- In the event of an evacuation, never leave your animals behind to fend for themselves.
- Know your emergency destination ahead of time. Shelters for human victims often won’t allow animals, but motels in the area will probably accept them in an emergency.
For more information, please visit PETA.org.
