A devastating earthquake hit western Colombia collapsing buildings and claiming the lives of over 281 people as the search for survivors continues.

Among those killed is a 38-year-old woman who is being praised for her bravery and unwavering love for her dog. 

Lenny Ruiz Fernández - animal activist, lawyer, and dog mom - made her last act one of love for her beloved Salomón. 

As her apartment building - The Ana Pilar building, in the Cuarto de Legua neighborhood - began to shake and crumble from the 7.4 magnitude quake, she used her body as a shield to protect her dog from the falling rubble. 

Sadly, she did not survive - but rescuers found Salomón alive in her arms under her body.

The dog was reunited with Lenny's family and is healing alongside them. 

Lenny also worked with the Pasto Animal Protection Board being a voice for the voiceless. Her love of animals was evident from her work, her final act, and even at her funeral.

Salomón attended her funeral with Lenny's heartbroken family who placed the dog on her casket. Everyone was wearing white and it was just what Lenny wanted.

According to a Facebook post, "At the Andino Event Center, relatives, friends and loved ones gathered to pay their last respects and remember a story marked by love and solidarity towards animals. As per a request that Lenny had expressed during her lifetime, those who attend her funeral were asked to wear white and instead of bringing floral arrangements donate food for dogs with the purpose of later handing it over to animals in need."

Rest in peace, Lenny.

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