PETA is recognizing Flagler Beach lifeguards and the Fire Department for rescuing a deer struggling in the ocean. The rescuers can expect certificates and vegan treats.
PETA is awarding a Compassionate Fire Department Award and a Compassionate Action Award to the rescuers “in recognition of their quick actions and determination in rescuing a deer, possibly scared out to sea, and seen struggling in rough ocean waves,” the press release stated.
Lifeguard Chase Hunter swam out to the deer on July 6 and, with the help of lifeguard Leo Peters and Capt. Joe Armellino, brought the animal to shore. They talked to the deer to keep the animal calm, the PETA release states.
The Fire Department then helped direct the animal across a busy road so that she could be released near a wooded area.
“This terrified doe likely would have drowned if not for the heroic actions of the Flagler Beach Fire Department and Ocean Rescue team, not to mention the kind people who saw her in trouble and called for help,” said PETA President Ingrid Newkirk. “PETA encourages everyone to follow their example and always act swiftly when they see an animal in need.”
The Fire Department and Ocean Rescue will receive framed certificates and “delicious vegan chocolates from PETA,” the release stated.
The deer was reported about 1:38 p.m. on July 6 in the area of 15th Street South.
The deer drew a crowd of spectators and dispatch notes state that the animal appeared to be drifting east. The notes also state that it was unknown if the deer was being pulled out to sea by a current or swimming away from the beach, which was now “heavily populated” by spectators. The animal was about 150 yards out.
Hunter swam out, braving sharks in the area, and managed to put the deer on a board, even though the animal jumped off a few times. Then, with the help of Peters and Armellino, got the frightened animal to the sand.
According to the notes, the deer was released just after 3 p.m. and the animal was “off and running.”
The press release goes on to state that PETA’s motto — which reads in part, “animals are not ours to abuse in any way” — points out that Every Animal Is Someone. The organization “offers free Empathy Kits for people who need a lesson in kindness,” the release states.
For more information, visit PETA.org.
This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: Flagler Beach lifeguards’ deer rescue earns certificates, treats from PETA
Reporting by Frank Fernandez, Daytona Beach News-Journal / The Daytona Beach News-Journal
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
