The Los Angeles Fire Department has defended its decision to deploy about 50 firefighters and a helicopter to rescue a dog from the Los Angeles River.

Capt. Steve Ruda said the risk involved with saving the German shepherd from the storm-swollen river on Friday was not as extravagant as it appeared.

The department has received praise for the hour-long rescue operation, but has also come under criticism for using so many resources.

The department has received praise for the hour-long rescue operation, but has also come under criticism for using so many resources.

they wouldn't be critisised if they were used to rescue a human being.
good on em i say.
it's a lot more than the rspca would do here.

Thats becasue it is unlikely you would see a member of the RSPCA hanging from a helicopter whilst rescuing a dog from a river!