Oaklyn Fire Department Nabs PETA Award for Saving Dog From Icy Creek

Firefighters in Ice-Rescue Suits Pulled Lost Dog From the Ice and Reunited Her With Her Guardian

For Immediate Release:
January 5, 2018

Contact:
Megan Wiltsie 202-483-7382

A Compassionate Fire Department Award is on its way from PETA to the Oaklyn Fire Department, which sprang into action on December 30 after a dog named Lilly fell through the ice of Newton Creek. As she struggled in the freezing waters 150 feet from shore, two firefighters equipped with ice-rescue suits, ropes, and a sled reached her side. All three were then pulled to shore. After warming Lilly up with a blanket in their truck, the firefighters took her back to the firehouse, and she was soon reunited with her guardian.

“These brave firefighters were ready and willing to enter that icy creek and pull this dog from the treacherous waters,” says PETA Senior Vice President Lisa Lange. “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 Oaklyn Fire Department—whose other recent animal rescues include chickens in a burning coop and a cat stuck up a tree—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.