Raquel shows kids that compassion for animals can be part of everyday life
Have you met Raquel Reyes—the 2026 American Girl Doll of the Year? And isn’t her dog, Luzita, the cutest? Raquel rescued Luzita from a shelter, which we love—because when companion animals are bought from ‘pet’ stores or breeders, more animals are bred to take their place. Choosing adoption helps break that harmful cycle and gives more animals in shelters a chance to find loving homes.
We also love that Raquel helps rescue dolphins! Her compassion reminds us that dolphins are individuals with feelings, families, and lives of their own. They belong in the ocean with their families—not in tiny tanks where they’re forced to perform and give rides to humans.
Raquel’s dolphin rescue story begins when she and her friend spot two dolphins stranded on the beach. They spring into action and call for help while making sure beachgoers give them space. Soon, a rescue team arrives to gently care for the dolphins and keep them safe—especially the baby, who needs to stay close to their mom. With teamwork and kindness leading the way, the dolphins are returned to their ocean home!
One thing we know for sure is that animals are individuals—and Raquel totally gets it! All animals have their own lives, their own feelings, and their own families—just like us.
Want to help animals, just like Raquel? Tell a friend about adopting from a shelter, skip marine parks and other places that use animals for entertainment, and grab some PETA Kids stickers for your water bottle or notebook—they’re a fun way to chat with your friends about being kind to all animals.
Under 13? Ask your parents bee-fore you continue!