Wellesley Firefighters Receive PETA Award for Rescuing Dog in Icy River

Wellesley Fire Department will receive PETA's Compassionate Fire Department Award after rescuing a dog who fell through the ice Sunday.

On the afternoon of Dec. 22, firefighters with the Wellesley Fire Department responded to an urgent call about a dog, named Crosby, who had fallen through the ice into the frigid Charles River. Firefighters, tethered to a rope, waded through the water and ice and pulled the dog to shore, where they dried him off with blankets and a fire coat and returned him to his family.

"The compassion and heroism shown by the Wellesley Fire Department is an inspiration," says PETA executive vice president Tracy Reiman. "Wellesley is very fortunate to have first responders who are ready to protect and serve both residents and their beloved animal companions."

The fire department will receive a framed certificate, a letter of appreciation and a box of vegan chocolates from PETA.

PETA reminds all dog guardians to always keep their animals on a comfortable and secure harness when taking them for walks.

For more information visit PETA.org.