Los Angeles Fire Department ignites debate by rescuing dog from river


Posted on Jan 28, 2010
By Julia Szabo

Los Angeles Fire Department ignites debate by rescuing dog from river

Last Friday's rescue of a German Shepherd trapped in the Los Angeles river has sparked lively debate. Local television stations broadcast the dramatic events live as a team of firefighters and swift-rescue personnel successfully recovered the dog. Now nicknamed Vernon, the dog is safe and sound at a Los Angeles county animal shelter, which reports a long list of interested adopters.

But despite the happy ending and expressions of appreciation from dog lovers everywhere, and despite standard fire-service practice to respond to water rescues involving dogs to prevent concerned citizens from attempting a rescue, the Los Angeles Fire Department is being criticized by some for spending resources and assets on ... a dog.

"The dog was trying to get out of the channel, and that was not going to happen," said Joe St. Georges, a 25-year firefighting veteran, who lost a fingernail and fractured a thumb when the stressed-out dog bit him (St. Georges promises to be back in action as soon as he can).

Among the LAFD's many fans are Amanda and Martin St. John of MuttShack Animal Rescue Foundation, the non-profit disaster-response organization renowned for its rescue efforts in the wake of Hurricane Katrina. Muttshack has nominated St. Georges for its Knights of Katrina Award, for "tireless dedication to the protection and well-being of animals, and for service beyond the call of duty."
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