In pet-loving Brazil, the state of São Paulo will allow animals to be buried in family graves starting Tuesday, under a new law recognising “the emotional bond” between humans and their pets.
Brazil is home to the world’s third-largest pet population, with an estimated 160 million companion animals, according to the Pet Brasil Institute.
The legislation was inspired by Bob Coveiro, a dog who lived for 10 years in a municipal cemetery after his owner was buried there. When Bob died in 2021, he was allowed to be laid to rest alongside his human companion.
On Tuesday, São Paulo Governor Tarcisio de Freitas signed the so-called Bob Coveiro law, permitting pets to be buried in family graves or mausoleums throughout the state.
The move comes amid nationwide outrage over the death of a beloved community dog named Orelha (“Ear”) in the southern coastal city of Florianópolis, who was allegedly killed by a group of teenagers from affluent families. The case drew attention from President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and sparked protests in several major cities, with local media closely following the investigation.
With a declining birth rate and a growing middle class, Brazil’s strong pet culture is reflected in a booming market for pet services, from luxury spas to hotels.
In January, São Paulo passed another law recognising the “cultural significance” of the caramel-colored Brazilian street dog, known as the Caramelo, which was featured in a 2025 Netflix film. That law aimed to combat prejudice against animals without a defined breed.
AFP
