Croxteth Fire Service Receives PETA Award For Freeing Horse Trapped In Mud

For Immediate Release:
27 May 2009

Contact:
Sam Glover 020 7357 9229, ext 229; [email protected]

Liverpool – For rescuing Penny, a 7-year-old mare who became trapped in mud up to her neck, the Croxteth Fire Service will receive a Hero to Animals Award from People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) Europe.

According to news reports, on 10 May, the Croxteth Fire Service were called to the Barnston Riding Centre in Wirral after Penny was discovered futilely trying to free herself from some mud in which she had become trapped. After trying unsuccessfully to use a tractor to pull Penny from the mud, the rescue crew finally managed to pull her out by passing hoses under her belly and using sheer strength to lift her.

Although a veterinarian had reportedly expressed concern that Penny might not survive, the mare got to her feet immediately after she was pulled free and trotted to a nearby field. Members of the fire crew hosed her down with warm water to clean her and help restore her temperature. Penny was reportedly a little stiff but is otherwise doing well.

The Croxteth Fire Service will receive a certificate and a letter of appreciation from PETA.

“The determination and compassion that the members of the Croxteth Fire Service showed in freeing Penny makes them community role models”, says PETA Director Robbie LeBlanc. “Liverpool is fortunate to have emergency responders who are ready to serve and protect all the area’s residents – no matter what species they may be.”

For more information, please visit PETA.org.uk.