Bath firefighters rescue dog from reclining couch
By ROB PRICE THE COURIER-ADVOCATE

BATH - A small dog caused some big problems for a Cedar Street couple last week.

Bath volunteer firefighters on Jan. 13 responded to a 911 alert of a dog trapped in a recliner at the home of Richard and Mary Jones, 18 Cedar St., Bath.

The dog, a dachshund named Cocoa, had wedged its head between the metal framework of a couch that opens into a reclining position.

"I was frightened to death," said Mrs. Jones. "I couldn't get him out, and he just screamed."

Mrs. Jones called her veterinarian, who recommended she call 911. The emergency dispatch service subsequently alerted the Bath Volunteer Fire Department.

"They got right over here," Mrs. Jones said.

Fire Department Captain Mark Conrad reported volunteers used a hydraulic ram and a hacksaw to extricate Cocoa. The operation took 15 minutes, and one firefighter suffered a minor injury when Cocoa bit him.

The firefighter "is expected to recover fully," Conrad said.

Cocoa is doing fine, according to Mrs. Jones, although he doesn't go near the recliner anymore. The furniture itself sustained no damage during the operation, she added.

All units were back in service 26 minutes after receiving the alert, Conrad reported.