Denver firefighter Tony Padilla and the water-rescue team will receive the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals "Compassionate Firefighter" award.

Padilla braved the icy waters of Sloans Lake yesterday to rescue a dog named Pearl that fell through the ice.

Padilla donned his protective gear and broke through the thin ice to reach Pearl and shuttle it to shore, much to the gratitude of the dog’s owner.

"The bravery and compassion shown by Tony Padilla and the Denver water-rescue team will serve as an inspiration to others throughout the community and beyond," said PETA Director Daphna Nachminovitch.

"Denver is very fortunate to have a public agency that is ready to protect and serve the city’s residents and their beloved four-legged companions."