Miami Firefighters Receive PETA Award for Rescuing Puppy Stranded On Roof

First Responders Retrieve Terrified Dog in the Wake of Concerned Citizen’s Call

For Immediate Release:
July 9, 2015

Contact:
Moira Colley 202-483-7382

A Compassionate Fire Department Award is on its way to the Miami-Dade Fire Rescue Department, which rushed to the scene after receiving a call from a concerned passerby that a puppy was stranded on the roof of an abandoned house. Firefighters were able to whisk the terrified dog—now named Indy—to safety, and he’s now recovering with a foster family and receiving veterinary care. Rescuers believe that Indy may have been thrown onto the roof and likely burned his paws on the hot surface.

“Thanks to the Miami-Dade Fire Rescue Department’s patience and compassion, this puppy has the chance to find his forever home,” says PETA Senior Director Colleen O’Brien. “PETA encourages caring people to take this story as inspiration 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,” is sending the 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.

Every year, countless animals are abandoned to fend for themselves outdoors, where they may endure sweltering heat and bone-chilling cold, get hit by cars, or face other life-threatening dangers. PETA offers free and low-cost spay/neuter services year-round in an effort to combat the animal-overpopulation crisis. Sterilized animals also live longer and happier lives, are less likely to develop cancer of the reproductive system, and, in the case of neutered males, are less likely to roam or fight.

For more information, please visit PETA.org.