Fresno Firefighters Receive PETA Award for Rescuing Puppy Who Fell Down Well

First Responders Retrieve Terrified Dog After Hour-Long Rescue Attempt

For Immediate Release:
April 16, 2015

Contact:
Alexis Sadoti 202-483-7382

PETA’s Compassionate Fire Department Award is on its way to the Fresno Fire Department in recognition of its rescue of Timmy the puppy, who plummeted down a 50-foot well casing after stumbling into an uncovered hole in his family’s garage. When his guardians heard him crying, they were quick to call in first responders, who spent more than an hour patiently lowering a knotted rope down to loop around Timmy’s legs and torso until they were able to pull him gently to safety. Thanks to the department’s hard work, Timmy is recovering with his family, and the hole has since been covered.

“Thanks to the Fresno Fire Department’s patience and determination, this puppy’s frightening ordeal had a happy ending,” says PETA Senior Director Collen O’Brien. “PETA encourages caring people to take this story as inspiration to always come to the aid of animals in need.”

PETA, whose motto reads, in part, that “animals are not ours to abuse in any way,” is sending the Fresno Fire Department 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 through plant-based meals.

PETA reminds all dog guardians to make sure that their yards are secure—with sturdy fencing, no potentially poisonous plants or other materials, and no open manholes or pipes—and to keep an eye on animals when they’re outside, particularly puppies who are still learning to navigate their environment.

For more information, please visit PETA.org.