Brewer Teen Has Raised Over 16 Thousand For Shelter Pets [VIDEO]

At the end of this year's Ride For the Wet Nose, Matt and Jason Gross estimated they've raised over $16,600 dollars for shelter pets.

With thunder rumbling in the not-so-distant sky, 16-year-old Matt Gross and his Dad, Jason, pedaled onto the lot outside Pat's Bike Shop one last time in the Ride for the Wet Nose. They've been making the ride since 2012, but have decided to call it quits as Matt's academic life is getting much busier.

This year's total, at that moment, was $4,550, but Jason told me they still have donations rolling in. When I asked how much has been raised over the course of the rides, he estimated it at $16,665. The money has always been split between the Bangor Humane Society and the Old Town Animal Orphanage. But this year, Matt decided to include the Furry Friends Network, which provides pet food to seniors who can't afford it on their own.

Congratulations to Matt and Jason on another successful year! Pets like Tyson, who turned out for the finish line and is up for adoption at the Bangor Humane Society, thank you for making their lives in the shelter a little more comfortable. And for calling attention, every year, to the importance of adopting shelter pets so they can have loving forever homes, like Buddy, who inspired the ride. The motivation for the ride was clear when Matt got off his bike and took off his helmet. The first thing he did was walk over and give Tyson some love. Pictures really do speak louder than words.