WAUSAU, Wis. (WSAU) – An animal advocacy group has recognized Wausau's fire department for helping to rescue a family dog during a fire last week.
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals or PETA gave the department its Compassionate Fire Department Award on Monday. The award includes a package of special oxygen masks designed specifically for cats, dogs and other animals that firefighters can use in emergency situations.
“Your community is really lucky to have such kind emergency responders who don't hesitate to help humans or animals in need,” said PETA senior special projects coordinator Alicia Woempner.
Firefighters Jamie Giese and Jared Thompson found Koda in heavy smoke during a house fire on 6th Avenue last week. They rushed the dog outside and gave him mouth-to-nose breathing. Veterinarians later treated Koda at a local animal hospital.
Woempner says anyone can rescue an animal, including those who do not have emrgency responder training.
“We each must always come to the aid of animals in distress whenever we can,” she said.
