See How This 15-Year-Old Saved a Dog From Drowning in California!

One split-second decision can save a life—just ask Mateo Akerman, a 15-year-old from Newport Beach, CA, who recently went viral for saving a dog from drowning! 🦸‍♂️

My dad is a doctor, and seeing him always rushing to the hospital to save lives or stepping up when help is needed taught me to be the one to step up when the pup needed help.  — Mateo

When Mateo saw a dog named George struggling in Newport Harbor, he didn’t hesitate to dive in and help him get to shore. Compassionate humans like Mateo know that dogs feel fear and pain, and would want someone to help them in a scary situation. Plus, Mateo has firsthand experience with his dogs running away due to fireworks and later being found, so he knows the relief George’s guardian must have felt after the rescue.

From this experience, I learned that in life, you have to be the one to step up and act when needed. — Mateo

Besides any literal superhero moments you find yourself in, Mateo reminds everyone that small acts of kindness always make a difference. 💪 Try any of these ideas:

• Make a DIY animal rescue kit
• Help wildlife in your area thrive
• Speak up for a backyard dog near you
• Clean up your local beach
• Make your yard animal-friendly

There’s another huge way Mateo has been a hero for animals—he adopted his two companions, Benji and Suna, from a shelter! While “pet” stores and breeders keep animals in miserable conditions and have more bred for each one they sell, reputable shelters rescue animals from the street, give them the comfort they need, and help them find their forever home. If you care about animals like Mateo does, spread the word about “Adopt, Don’t Shop.”

I…hope to help shape a world where animals are protected and cared for.  —  Mateo

For choosing to step up and save a dog’s life, peta2 is presenting Mateo with our Hero to Animals Award!

Thank you so much, Mateo: The world is a safer place for dogs with you around. 🐶

*****

Here are two more dog advocates you gotta meet—Alexis and Taylor are sending food, toys, and supplies to shelters across the country!