Portland Fire and Rescue Save Dog from Willamette River

Monday, December 14, 2015

GoLocalPDX News Team

Gary Grey and the rescued dog; via Portland Fire and Rescue

Portland Fire and Rescue crews saved a dog from the waters of the Willamette River on Saturday afternoon.

Rescue crews responded calls on Saturday afternoon of a dog trapped along the west bank of the Wilammete River. The dog was initially spotted by a passing boat, who’s crew noticed the dog was in distress.

A truck company responded but could not reach the dog because of the steep and dangerous terrain surrounding the river bank.

Firefighter Gary Grey eventually was able to coax the dog off a small ledge along the river bank and onto a rescue boat. the dog was wet and cold but otherwise healthy and in good spirits.

The dog was released to animal control after arriving back on land.

Related Slideshow: Slideshow: 5 Tips For Surviving Dog Attacks

Pit bull breeds accounted for 78 percent of fatal dog attacks last year. GoLocalPDX outlines five things to know about surviving pit bull attacks recommended by Multnomah County Animal Control.

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1) Do Not Run

Stay as quiet and motionless as you can, "like a tree." Quick gestures or running will only bring out the dog’s prey or chase instinct. If you can, slowly back away while turning your head and eyes away from the dog. Also, avoid screaming.

Photo credit: maplegirlie on Flickr

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2) Protect Yourself

Attempt to place anything you have, such as a jacket or backpack, between yourself and the attacking dog. Keep your arms and hands near your body, making it harder for the animal to reach out and bite you. Also, turn your hands into fists to protect your fingers. If you can, curl up in the fetal position.

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3) Choke The Dog

If a dog cannot breathe or is choking, it will probably stop biting you. If a dog is attacking you, try to ram either an object or your hand down its throat as far as you can to make it gag. Also, try to put pressure against the animal’s throat and windpipe.

Photo credit: smerikal via Compfight cc

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4) Do Not Use Force

Although it seems logical, do not try to hit the dog. With dogs like pit bulls, bred to attack, hitting it will only anger it and make it more vicious.

Photo credit: maplegirlie on Flickr

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5) Report The Incident

Even if you receive no serious injuries, it is best to let the authorities know about a dangerous or menacing dog. It may only injure someone worse in the future. Contact animal control services, such as Multnomah County Animal Control.

Photo credit: MLazarevski via Compfight cc;