PEORIA, AZ — The high temperatures were too much to bear for one Valley bulldog, who suffered from heat exhaustion after spending just 10 minutes in the backyard.
Mickey, a 5-year-old English bulldog, is all smiles now after some help from the Peoria Fire Department.
His owner, Laura Hernandez, says the dog collapsed after spending 9-11 minutes outside in the backyard with her.
"He was gasping for air," she said. "So I automatically saw that he was in distress."
She says the nearest animal hospital was closed, so she pulled up to Fire Station 191.
"She said, 'My baby's not breathing'," Fire Captain Danny Comella said. "Then we realized it was a dog. So right away the guys sprung into action."
The crew used what's called a "fido bag,", filled with medical supplies and an oxygen mask to help Mickey with his breathing.
"Immediately started giving him oxygen (and) using cooling techniques," Captain Comella said.
The crew then gave Mickey a ride to the vet in their firetruck.
"When we pulled up to the animal hospital, we just pulled right in," Captain Comella said. "As soon as we got there they opened the doors and took him into the treatment area."
Mickey has since recovered. Hernandez said the crew saved her dog's life.
"They don't have to be outside for a long period of time," Hernandez said. "Just make sure your animals have enough water."
"It's a blessing," she added. "They sprung into action. It's just amazing."
"Usually we don't get to see the end of our work," Captain Comella said. "This time we did and to see the smile on their face, to see how happy the dog is, it makes us feel good."
