For Rescuing Stranded Whales, Federal and Florida Agencies Receive PETA Awards

Superhuman Everglades Efforts to Save Dozens of Pilot Whales Net Rescuers Goodie Baskets and Praise

For Immediate Release:
December 6, 2013

Contact:
David Perle 202-483-7382

The wildlife officials who sprang into action to help a pod of 51 short-finned pilot whales stranded in dangerously shallow waters in the Florida Everglades are receiving Compassionate Action Awards from PETA for their quick efforts to guide the stranded animals back toward their home range and to give veterinary care, including a merciful release, to whales who were found in poor condition. Thanks to the agencies—which included the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, the Marine Animal Rescue Society of Miami, the Marine Mammal Conservancy, the National Park Service, and the Coast Guard—most of the whales who survived the ordeal are reportedly on their way back to open waters, where they’ll be able to swim in safety.

“These agencies worked around the clock to help these whales escape their frightening ordeal and head back toward safe, deeper waters,” says PETA Executive Vice President Tracy Reiman. “PETA hopes the compassion and know-how shown by these rescuers will inspire others always to come to the aid of animals in need.”

PETA is sending each agency a framed certificate as well as a holiday gift basket containing a box of decadent dairy-free chocolates, a copy of The PETA Practical Guide to Animal Rights, a humane bug catcher to use in the office, PETA’s 2014 calendar featuring rescued animals, a bag of savory vegan jerky, and more.

For more information, please visit PETA.org.