GEORGETOWN TWP. — Firefighters from Georgetown Township were recognized with a “Compassionate Fire Department Award” from PETA for their efforts in saving a dog last week.
PETA said the award recognizes the “bravery and determination” of fire department staff in their efforts to save a black lab named Hazel on Monday, Jan. 15.
“This dog was minutes away from a terrifying death, but thanks to the Georgetown Township firefighters’ compassion and quick action, she’s safe back at home with her family,” PETA Senior Vice President Colleen O’Brien wrote in a press release. “PETA hopes these rescuers’ bravery will inspire people everywhere to always help when they see an animal in need.”
PETA sent a framed certificate and vegan chocolates to the department.
The dog fell through a thin layer of ice on Cedar Lake East, in the area of Fillmore Street and 24th Avenue near Jenison.
A neighbor saw Hazel had fallen through the ice and called 911. Members of the Georgetown Township Dive Team then used ropes and surface rescue suits to rescue the dog, who was 20 feet away in “chest-deep water.”