Brazilian lawmakers propose expanded animal welfare donation programs

Councilor Alexandre Montenegro (PL) in Rio Preto introduced a bill to widen the city’s existing Food Bank for animals, turning it into a “Banco de Ração e Utensílios para Proteção Animal”. The proposal would allow free collection and distribution of not only pet food but also veterinary medicines, collars, transport boxes, shelters and other supplies to independent animal protectors, civil‑society NGOs, vulnerable pet owners and municipal rescue programs, without creating new municipal expenses.

Deputy Rodrigo Gambale (Pode‑SP) presented Federal Bill 770/26, which would create a National Solidarity Veterinary Program. The program aims to collect, reuse and give away medicines, vaccines and pet food to low‑income families, independent protectors and NGOs. Donations would come from individuals, veterinary clinics and industry; recipients must present a veterinary prescription. The Ministry of Agriculture, in cooperation with the Health and Environment ministries, would oversee the scheme, while states and municipalities could join to manage local collection and distribution. Both initiatives seek to reduce animal abandonment, support public‑health goals and strengthen animal‑protection policies.