Estancia Velha (RS) – The Animal Adoption Fair, promoted by the City of Estância Velha, through the Secretariat of Security, Sport and Wellbeing (SESEBE), has already secured a new home for 350 pets in 2023. The action takes place every Saturday morning, from 9 am to 12 pm, at Praça Leonel Brizola (in front of the Catholic Church), in the Center.
One of the most emblematic cases recorded in 2023 was the case of the dog Graxinha. The stray was rescued practically lifeless by the Animal Cause department, linked to SESEBE. Among the signs of mistreatment, her back paws were covered in grease. After 10 days of treatment, she responded and was adopted. Today she lives free on a farm in the interior of the city.
In addition to encouraging adoption, the City Hall also controls the number of stray animals. In 2023, 981 castrations were carried out (including dogs and cats), in addition to the registration of more than 400 animals.
“These are important works that directly reflect on the reduction in the number of abandoned animals. But, even more important is that people become aware and do not abandon or mistreat pets”, points out Mayor Diego Francisco.
Along these lines, the joint work of City Hall, SESEBE, Municipal Guard and Civil Police also resulted in the arrest of a man who mistreated dogs in his home. After several complaints from the community, the team followed the suspect, who, disregarding the law and measures already imposed, was arrested in his own home.
Currently, the City Hall houses more than 300 animals. This is thanks to a partnership with around 53 community caregivers, who help as a “passage home” until the dogs and cats are adopted. In September 2023, the Administration recognized the voluntary work of these people by awarding the Animal Friendly Citizen certificate.
The Adoption Fair returns on Saturday, January 6th, at the same location and time. In case of rain, the fair is taken to the Cultural Activities Pavilion (PAC), where it normally takes place.
Praça Leonel Brizola was chosen because it is the only one in the region to house a “Cachorródromo”. The new development was inaugurated in April, with the complete revitalization of the square, which received new toys – exclusively for children aged 0 to 6 –, lighting with LED lamps, benches for families and a fountain. The dog park has toys made for pets’ enjoyment. Monitoring cameras with facial recognition were also installed at the site.