Halligan’s Drive For ESA’s

That same firefighter offered not only the name of a breeder, but to purchase the dog, as well. Talbert was president of the volunteer organization at the time, and at their next business meeting, members voted to get a Dalamatian.

Talbert and three other members traveled to Pennsylvania to bring Halligan to his new home. He was the runt of the litter, and at 12 weeks old, he was the same size as the eight-week old puppies that were on site.

“He was a leftover. I just felt like he deserved it (a chance),” Talbert said.

When it came to naming the dog, members knew they wanted his name to have relevance in the fire service, Weston Fire Department Chief Kenny James said.

“Two or three names were tossed around, and members decided on Halligan,” James said.

The name comes from the tool, Halligan Bar, which is used for prying, twisting, punching, or striking. It can be used to sink the pick into the door frame near the door handle and then force the door. Another option is to use the tool to pry the door off the top hinges, knock down a wall in a house to get to another area, make a purchase point on a car hood to cut the battery, break glass on a car or building for access or ventilation, or driven into a roof to provide a foothold for firefighters.

“We carry one on every truck,” James added.

Members of the department say this year’s Drive to Make a Difference was a success. In total, the department was able to collect: 400 lbs of dry dog food, 5 cat collars, 26 dog collar/leash combos,10 extra dog collars, 3 brushes,14 gallons of bleach, 63 rolls of paper towels,13 containers of cleaning wipes, 200 lbs of non-clumping cat litter, 367.5 lbs dry cat food, 69 cans of cat food, 7 bags of cat treats, 36 cans of dog food, 96 lbs of dog bones, 21 bags of dog treats, 11 dog bowls, 8 cat bowl, 1 can of disinfectant spray, 6 bottles disinfectant cleaner,3 bottles bleach spray cleaner and miscellaneous toys.