LA fire crew defend decision to deploy 50 to rescue dog

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.

Captain Steve Ruda said the risk involved in saving the German shepherd from the storm-swollen river on Sunday was not as extravagant as it appeared.

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

Ruda said there was no extra cost because the firefighters were on duty and stationed nearby.

Extra taxpayer money wasn't used and the alternatives were unacceptable, authorities said.

The dog, nicknamed Vernon after the city where he was rescued, remained in quarantine at the Southeast Area Animal Control Authority shelter in Downey, just south of Los Angeles.

- AP