Waterboro Firefighters Receive PETA Award for Rescuing Dog From Frozen Lake

First Responders Save Beloved Companion From Chilling Fate

For Immediate Release:
December 8, 2014

Contact:
Alexis Sadoti 202-483-7382

When Waterboro firefighters heard that a dog named Dakota had fallen through the ice of the frozen-over Little Ossipee Lake, they sprang into action. Fire Capt. Tom Langevin strapped on an ice-rescue suit and, tethered to a rope, carefully traversed the thin ice and waded through the frigid water until he was able to pull Dakota to shore. Dakota was reunited with his relieved guardian and taken inside to warm up by a fire and recover from his ordeal.

For its dedication to protecting all of Waterboro’s residents—no matter their species—PETA will send the Waterboro Fire Department a framed Compassionate Fire Department Award, along with PETA’s Chocolate to the Rescue vegan dark chocolate bars, a letter of appreciation, and a copy of The Engine 2 Diet, a Texas firefighter’s 28-day plan for staying in prime firefighting shape by eating plant-based meals. PETA is also offering to contribute to any fundraising efforts that the department undertakes to help purchase ice-rescue sleds for future emergencies.

“The Waterboro Fire Department’s know-how and dedication meant the difference between life and death for this dog, whose guardian is doubtlessly relieved to have him safe and sound at home,” says PETA Executive Vice President Tracy Reiman. “PETA hopes the firefighters’ kindness will inspire others to come to the aid of animals in need.”

PETA cautions all dog guardians to keep their animals on a comfortable and secure harness when taking them for walks and never to let them roam outdoors unsupervised.

For more information, please visit PETA.org.