A man and his dog share a deep bond that can’t be sold for money or goods. Dogs  became “man’s best friend” for a reason. Regardless of background, finances, what you look like or where you’re from, dogs give us pure and unconditional love every day. Which is why people do whatever it takes to make sure their friends are safe and happy, and with reason. A 58 year old man by the name of Lucas Hermanelgido gives layer to this statement. At this point in his life, his age had started to become a factor in what he could do now but, buy despite that, he willingly put his life on the line to rescue his beloved dog from drowning in the California aqueduct in Hesperia.

Lucas and his wife took a stroll with their three dogs around noon last Valentine’s Day. As they were walking along the aqueduct, one of the dogs fell into the canal between Yucca Terrace Drive and Amargosa Road. While approaching the water to save his dog, Lucas lost his balance and fell in the water. When the paramedics arrived, they pulled him out of the water and started to perform CPR, but it was too late. Lucas Hermanelgido was pronounced dead at the hospital. However, the dog was able to escape and was unharmed. According to the Sheriff’s Department, Lucas was in the water for 10-15 minutes, before the paramedics were able to arrived. He is truly a hero.

Our pets are amazing creatures. They love us no matter what—they stay by your side through thick and thin. So of course we’ll be there for them too. Lucas was truly a man of courage and a lot of love. He risked and lost his life to save his loving canine companion—an act of true love. Would you do the same?