20 JULY 2024 By Mallory Gleich When Arcadia High sophomore Jordan Sucato was eight years old, she started volunteering at Luv of Dogz Fund, a nonprofit that provides advocacy and resources for rescued, abandoned and homeless dogs and those who care for them. Jordan and her mom, Courtney, would donate their time helping out – and it was this organization and volunteer work that inspired Jordan to become a voice for animals by starting her own nonprofit. Laws for Paws’ mission is “to be a voice for those who cannot speak for themselves,” and Jordan works to impact the lives of animals in need on a legislative and everyday level. The organization officially opened in 2024. “I encountered numerous animals who had come from horrible situations,” she said. “What broke my heart was how sweet and gentle the dogs were. Witnessing and helping these animals is the sole inspiration behind my desire to ensure they are advocated for.” Jordan worked with Senator John Kavanagh earlier this year to pass a bill prohibiting the sale of animal-tested cosmetic products. Although the bill did not pass, the duo plans to reintroduce it in the next legislative session. In everyday settings, Laws for Paws cares for animals through fundraisers like Bear’s Boots. One of the first projects for the organization – and an ongoing venture – Bear’s Boots donates dog booties to Dog’s Day Out AZ, a Valley-based nonprofit. Bear’s Boots got its name in honor of the family’s Belgian Malinois, who passed away in 2019. “He was one of the best dogs I’ve ever had. He was sweet, funny and intelligent. I grew up training and playing with him; we would swim together, and he loved to dance,” Jordan said. “Bear passed away after a long battle with cancer. This fundraiser is being used to honor his memory.” Bear’s Boots purchases the booties listed on Dog’s Day Out AZ’s wish list and prioritizes the boot size that is needed at the time. “Upon receiving the boots, the organization creates care packages with items such as bottled water, dog bowls, food and toys. We then distribute these packages and boots to unhoused individuals and their pets,” Jordan said. One of her goals is to expand Laws for Paws by starting a club at Arcadia so other students can get involved. So far, Jordan and Courtney have donated over 400 boots and raised over $6,000 for Dogs Day Out. “They are a fantastic organization, and we are lucky to be a part of it. Founder Monique Hebert has expressed gratitude and excitement upon receiving the boots. She has repeatedly thanked me for the donations, and we are so happy to be able to support them,” Jordan said. Bear’s Boots will continue until February 2025, allowing Laws for Paws to reach its goal of $20,000 raised for Dog’s Day Out. Jordan hopes to eventually partner with organizations nationwide to provide relief. “By 2026, we aim to have at least one partner in all 50 states,” she said. “Additionally, we hope to advocate for a complete ban on selling cosmetically tested products in Arizona, and hope this will happen during the next legislative session.” lawsforpaws.org Becoming a voice for four-legged friends Dog’s Day Out AZ Founder Monique Burns Hebert with Jordan Sucato. PHOTO COURTESY OF JORDAN SUCATO