People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals has bestowed a Compassionate Fire Department Award on the Ocean Pines Fire Department for its rescue of a dog stranded on frozen ice.
During that rescue, two firefighters used kayaks to reach the dog who was located about 300 yards from Saint Martin River’s shore near White Sail Circle in Ocean Pines, Maryland, on Feb. 3.
The dog, who was microchipped, was safely rescued from the ice and taken to a veterinary center for evaluation and treatment before being reunited with their guardian.
Maryland's Ocean Pines Fire Department has been given a Compassionate Fire Department Award from People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA).
Maryland’s Ocean Pines Fire Department has been given a Compassionate Fire Department Award from People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA).
“This dog was in a terrifying and deadly predicament on an icy river, but is now safe and warm at home with their family, thanks to the Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department,” PETA Founder Ingrid Newkirk said. “PETA encourages everyone to follow these rescuers’ example by acting swiftly whenever they see an animal in danger.”
A framed certificate will be sent to the Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department in recognition of their determination.
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How to prevent pet deaths related to cold weather
An avalanche rescue dog lays in the snow while an instructor speaks to students about dog obedience.
An avalanche rescue dog lays in the snow while an instructor speaks to students about dog obedience.
The number of dogs and other pets that have died from causes related to cold weather during the 2025-2026 winter season is 80, according to PETA. Another 977 pets have had to be rescued.
In order to help reduce the total number of pet cold weather injuries and deaths, PETA suggests taking the following precautions:
Keep animals indoors.
Don’t allow your cat or dog to roam outdoors without supervision.
Keep an eye out for strays.
Clean dogs after they come in from the snow.
If you see «backyard dogs» left outdoors in extreme weather without proper shelter, alert the authorities.
Help all animals, birds and other wildlife included, survive cold snaps.