The state of Sao Paulo in Brazil has approved a new law permitting pets to be buried in family graves and mausoleums, recognising the emotional bond between humans and their animals.
The law, which takes effect on Tuesday, was signed by conservative governor Tarcisio de Freitas and is popularly known as the “Bob Coveiro Law,” named after a dog that lived for 10 years in a municipal cemetery after its owner was buried there. When the dog died in 2021, authorities allowed it to be laid to rest alongside its owner, inspiring the new legislation.
Brazil has the world’s third-largest pet population, with about 160 million companion animals, according to figures from the Pet Brasil Institute.
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The approval of the measure comes amid national outrage over the killing of a well-known community street dog named “Orelha” (Ear) in the southern coastal city of Florianopolis. The dog was allegedly beaten to death by a group of teenagers from wealthy families, a case that has drawn widespread protests and the attention of President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.
The incident has intensified debates about animal protection and the place of pets in Brazilian society, where declining birth rates and a growing middle class have strengthened pet ownership and spending on animal care.
In recent years, Brazil’s strong pet culture has fueled the growth of services ranging from luxury spas and hotels for animals to specialised veterinary care.
Earlier in January, Sao Paulo passed another law recognising the “cultural significance” of the caramel-coloured Brazilian street dog known as the “Caramelo,” which was featured in a 2025 Netflix film. The legislation aims to combat discrimination against mixed-breed dogs.