A brazilian priest lets street dogs into the church to find them new families
Every Sunday at the parish of St. Ana Gravat, in the Brazilian state of Pernambuco, Padre João Paulo Araujo Gomez opens the doors to everyone, but stray dogs are allowed to enter here any day of the week.
Padre Joao is a big animal lover and he dreams of finding decent owners for all street dogs.
«They can always come here to sleep, eat, drink water. Here they will have refuge and protection, because this is God’s house and they are also God’s creations»
Padre also monitors the health of dogs and each of them is regularly examined by a veterinarian. If an animal is injured, it is treated. The dog that parishioners will take should be healthy and with all the necessary vaccinations. Sometimes puppies or kittens are thrown into the church in boxes and they first try to find a family.
Padre’s actions are really bearing fruit, the number of street dogs in the area has decreased significantly since it started its activities. The Internet also helps the priest in this — he regularly posts photos of dogs on his Facebook and Instagram accounts.
Padre Joao himself set a good example and sheltered several dogs. Now they live at his house.
In addition to helping animals, the parish of St. Ana Gravata helps poor families and children. Things, food and toys are collected for them.
