The Santa Monica Fire Department revived an unconscious dog named Stella when they responded to a structure fire at the corner of 2nd and Hill Street last Saturday morning.
For the firefighters’ heroic efforts to save Stella, the Santa Monica Fire Department will receive a Compassionate Fire Department Award from PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals).
“Santa Monica’s firefighters are truly heroes because they don’t consider their job done until all residents – both human and nonhuman – have made it to safety,” said PETA Senior Vice President Daphna Nachminovitch. “PETA hopes the compassion and know-how shown by these firefighters will inspire others always to come to the aid of animals in need.”
Nachminovitch said the SMFD would receive a framed certificate, a letter of appreciation, and a box of vegan chocolates from PETA.
At about 7:30 am Saturday, firefighters arrived at the well-involved structure in the 2600 block of 2nd Street.
The firefighters discovered Stella had hidden behind a mattress as they searched the five-unit structure for victims.
The firefighters rushed Stella from the burning building and immediately began to revive her using an oxygen mask specially designed for dogs and cats. Stella soon regained consciousness and was taken to an animal hospital.
The SMFD said five engine companies, Hazmat4, Truck Company 1, and Battalion 1 responded to the incident.
The SMFD said there were no firefighter or civilian injuries as they extinguished the fire, which was cleared just after 12 pm Saturday. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
