Peruvian boy brought his dog to school — teachers were stunned when they heard why

In a video posted by @streetdogsofbombay, a young boy from Peru has drawn widespread attention after bringing his dog to school and asking if she could receive food. According to those present, the boy explained that his family was experiencing hardship and his dog, Pérola, had not eaten properly in days. Witnesses at the school said he asked a teacher if Pérola could also be fed, explaining she was like family and he didn’t want her to go hungry.

Teachers and staff were moved by the boy's gesture. They gave Pérola food and water and assured the boy that she would be cared for while he was in class. According to reports, the family is facing economic difficulties, and the child’s action has been widely seen as a reflection of how poverty affects not only people but also the animals they care for. Pérola was not just a pet, but a companion who shared in the family’s struggles.

The story has sparked conversation about the impact of poverty on families in Peru and beyond, and how small acts of compassion can make a difference. As per a BBVA survey done in 2023, the monetary poverty rate rose to 29.0 % in 2023, an increase from 27.5 % in 2022. This means that approximately 9.8 million Peruvians, nearly one in three citizens, were living below the national poverty line, as per Reuters. Among them, a significant number are children and families who face daily challenges accessing essentials like food, healthcare, and education. Extreme poverty, defined as income that falls below the minimum needed for basic survival, also rose during this period. It reached 5.7 %, up from 5.0 % the previous year, leaving around 1.9 million people struggling to meet even the most basic living conditions.

Staff at the school made sure both the boy and his dog were looked after that day. The video, which was taken by someone at the school, went viral, with many people expressing admiration for the boy’s empathy. @leenajain_9 wrote, "God bless them both with lots of love, food and a great life." @jazbaat_ki_syahi commented, "The level of empathy of the boy! Salute to his parents who have raised him so well." @themussafahdogproject said, "It’s heartbreaking how some have so much material wealth in this world, and others so very little. We can only hope conditions improve for this family." @meenu_vasu penned, "God bless the child’s good heart! I hope their family gets a better life...sincere prayers."

@mariaoliveiraferns shared, "Omg this broke my heart. God have pity on that child — such a pure soul. Bless his family with unlimited blessings, so he can feed himself and his beloved pet." @hrallam wrote, "Oh my God, this made me cry. I hope he was near so that I could have helped them both. I hope they both had good meals." @ravroxx_ chimed in, There are people who value voiceless for them, those are precious. Let's learn to be empathetic." @gunjur_strays quipped, "Most of the people are abusing and threatening feeders so that the stray dogs don't get food. Bless the child and the dog."

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