Dogs Comfort Patients in Santos Hospital and Parish in Paraíba

In Santos, the project “Amor em Forma de Pelos” led by Ricardo Ferreira de Araújo and his wife Nanda Vieira de Araújo brought three dogs—Belmiro, Jabuca and Briosa—to Hospital dos Estivadores on 24 July. Patients, families and staff reported reduced anxiety, stress and pain, noting the visit improved morale during treatment.

In the interior of Paraíba, a caramel‑colored stray known locally as “the priest’s dog” entered a mass at the church in Areial, climbing onto the altar and staying beside 88‑year‑old Monsignor Antônio Apolinário. The incident was shared online, highlighting the animal’s role in comforting worshippers and its long‑standing presence at the parish.