The city where animals can be buried with their families. It all started with a dog who spent 10 years at his master's grave
An emotional story in São Paulo, Brazil, has led to the adoption of a new law that allows pets to be buried alongside their families. The law was inspired by a dog that lived for a decade in a cemetery next to its owner's grave.
The dog had become a symbolic presence in the cemetery. PHOTO X/@aenewsEnglish24
The dog has become a symbolic presence in the cemetery of Taboão da Serra, near São Paulo. After the death of his master, Bob Coveiro – which in Portuguese means “the grave digger” he attended the funeral and refused to leave the site, returning every time the family tried to take him home. The dog stayed in the cemetery for about 10 years.
Over the years, the puppy has brought comfort to the bereaved, accompanied funeral processions and become known for its playful nature. After he died in 2021 after being hit by a vehicle, Bob was buried next to his master.
The law that bears his name recognizes it “emotional connection” between pets and their families and came into effect on Tuesday, February 10, the BBC reports.
One of the initiators of the project, the deputy Eduardo Nóbrega, said that the story of the dog turned a lesson of loyalty into a public policy.
“What started as a story of love and loyalty turned into public policy,” wrote Nóbrega on social networks.
Local animal protection organization Patre, which raised funds to erect a statue in Bob's memory, said the animal “he won the hearts of all who met him.” According to the organization, many people managed to smile despite moments of sadness when Bob played with his favorite ball.
The Bob Coveiro law allows dogs and cats to be buried in family graves in São Paulo, subject to sanitary regulations. The exact rules will be determined by the local funeral services.
“Anyone who has lost a pet knows: it's not just an animal. It's part of the family. And this law recognizes that bond and brings more respect in the moment of separation. Love doesn't end with goodbye,” said Eduardo Nóbrega.
