Police Net PETA Award for Evacuating 60 Dogs and Cats During Nelson Fire

Vacaville Officer Carly Stone’s Bodycam Footage Shows Dramatic Rescue of Animals—Including the Dog She Adopted

For Immediate Release:
August 28, 2018

Contact:
Megan Wiltsie 202-483-7382

A Compassionate Police Department Award is on its way from PETA to the Vacaville Police Department, which helped the SPCA of Solano County evacuate 60 dogs and cats during the Nelson Fire.

Dramatic bodycam footage (available here) from Officer Carly Stone shows officers loading animals into crates and putting them in cars. With flames approaching and time running out, they began placing dogs in the front and back seats of their own patrol cars. They rushed the animals away from the flames and to a nearby parking lot, from which they were sent home with foster parents—including Officer Stone, who fostered and later adopted Sean, the dog who rode in her patrol car’s front seat.

“Thanks to these officers’ unhesitating bravery, dozens of lives were saved and many dogs and cats found loving new homes,” says PETA Senior Vice President Lisa Lange. “PETA hopes the Vacaville Police Department’s courage and determination will inspire others to come to the aid of those in need, especially during deadly natural disasters.”

PETA—whose motto reads, in part, that “animals are not ours to abuse in any way”—reminds everyone that animals must never be left behind in the event of a wildfire evacuation. Trapped horses and other animals can’t outrun wildfires, so never leave them locked in their stalls or confined in any way that would render them unable to flee. In areas affected by smoke and falling ash, keep animals indoors and avoid all outdoor activities, such as running with dogs.

PETA is sending the Vacaville Police Department a letter of congratulations, a framed certificate, and a box of delicious vegan cookies.

For more information, please visit PETA.org.