Suffolk County Police Receive PETA Award for Rescuing Dog From Icy Pond

Officers Use Special Exposure Suit to Save Canine From Chilly Fate

For Immediate Release:
March 31, 2015

Contact:
Alexis Sadoti 202-483-7382

A Compassionate Action Award is on its way from PETA to the Suffolk County Police Department, which came to the rescue of a dog named Guinness, who fell through the ice on Spectacle Pond on March 20. Wearing a special insulated suit, officer Daniel Coan broke up the ice and waded through the frigid water to reach the shivering dog, who eagerly went into his rescuer’s arms and was escorted back to his relieved guardian.

“Thanks to these officers’ preparedness and quick actions, this dog survived a life-threatening ordeal and was reunited with his family,” says PETA Senior Director Colleen O’Brien. “PETA hopes the officers’ kindness will inspire others 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”—reminds all dog guardians to keep their animal companions near them on walks with a leash and a comfortable, secure harness and to keep a close eye on animals when they’re outdoors.

The police department will receive a framed certificate and a box of delicious vegan chocolates. PETA previously gave the department an award for rescuing a baby deer from a manhole in 2012.

For more information, please visit PETA.org.