Heroic Stoneham Dog Honored With PETA Award

STONEHAM, MA — PETA is recognizing a dog whose quick thinking helped save a man who fell through the ice in Stoneham. Diesel, a 5-year-old German Shepherd, was walking with his owner, Thomas Walsh, at Quarter Mile Pond when he heard the man calling for help.

Diesel alerted Walsh, who pulled the man to shore with the help of a nearby bystander. The man, a 22-year-old Malden resident, was hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries, the Stoneham Fire Department said.

"There's no telling what could have happened that day without Diesel’s determination, sense of urgency, and keen senses," PETA Vice President Colleen O’Brien said in a statement. "PETA recognizes him for saving this man’s life and showing us all how to look out for one another."

PETA said that altruism in animals is well-documented but often overlooked. The organization is sending Walsh a framed certificate, along with a doggie bag of toys and vegan treats for Diesel to enjoy.

Previously: Bystanders Pull Malden Man From Quarter Mile Pond