EVERGREEN — A Colorado fire department earned an award from PETA after a volunteer crew loaded a large dehydrated dog onto a stretcher and carried him down a hiking trail.
The 120-pound dog named Kato had been hiking with his owners at Maxwell Falls June 3 when he became exhausted and dehydrated. The Evergreen Fire/Rescue loaded the dog onto a stretcher and carried him a mile back to the parking lot. The dogs owners then took him to a veterinary clinic. Kato made a full recovery.
PETA honored the crew with a framed Compassionate Fire Department Award, an award letter, and other small items of thanks.
"These firefighters sprang into action to save this dog, just as they would any other hiker suffering from exhaustion on the trail," said PETA Vice President Colleen O'Brien. "PETA hopes their kindness will inspire people everywhere to do whatever it takes to help animals in need."
PETA reminded dog owners to bring water and snacks for their canine companions on hikes.