Meet the Teen Helping Dogs Find Comfort

Posted by Bridget on October 03, 2024

Jordan Sucato, 15, a high school student in Phoenix, is dedicated to helping dogs in her city. She started a nonprofit group, Laws for Paws LLC, through which she raises money to distribute dog boots and other supplies to companion animals in need. 🐶

Jordan, who grew up volunteering at local animal shelters and fostering animals, is passionate about raising awareness of the needs of unhoused individuals’ animal companions. When asked why this effort is important to her, she told us, “My goal is to provide them with comfort and relief in any way possible. I believe that all animals deserve equal consideration, regardless of how they are housed, which is why speaking on behalf of all animals is so important.”

When the weather heats up in the summer, dog guardians often don’t think about hot sidewalks, which can easily burn dogs’ paws. On a 95-degree day, pavement can reach 140 degrees—hot enough for dogs to incur severe burns. In a city like Phoenix, where the temperature often exceeds 100 degrees, Jordan’s efforts are going a long way to protect dogs’ paws.

Since founding Laws for Paws, I have learned a lot about different ways to improve animal welfare. One important aspect is, of course, the use of dog boots. In hotter climates, dog boots must be made of mesh to allow dogs’ paws to sweat. In colder climates, they must be made of rubber or another closed material to retain heat. While dog boots are a significant focus of Laws for Paws, I have also dedicated considerable time to researching and exposing [the cruelty of] cosmetic animal testing, which is another issue I am incredibly passionate about learning about.

For Jordan’s dedication to taking compassionate action to protect animals, peta2 is presenting her with our Hero to Animals Award. 💙

Young people must learn empathy towards animals because we are the future generations. We share this world with these diverse, complex creatures who experience hardships and emotions just as we do.

When asked what advice she would give other young people who want to get active for animals in their community, she says that “regardless of your age or how often your ideas are shot down, if you are passionate about making a difference in your community regarding animals, go for it. Protecting and advocating for animals is so important. Stick to it and keep your head high!” We couldn’t agree more, Jordan!

Here’s How You Can Be a Hero to Animals, Too

Anyone can take a note out of Jordan’s book by educating friends and family about the importance of protecting their dog’s paws from hot pavement.

Looking for ways to help animals? You could host a fundraiser at your school for a local animal shelter, promote sterilization, support the passage of laws that require responsible animal guardianship, or just spread the word about why people should adopt animals—not shop for them.