Nova Iguaçu expands free dog and cat spay program with 260 new slots

The Nova Iguaçu municipal government announced that on July 7 the city's animal protection department (SEMDEPA) will reopen online registration for an additional 260 free spay surgeries for dogs and cats. The extra slots bring the total number of procedures scheduled for the month to 1,040, surpassing the 1,000‑procedure milestone. Since the program began in 2023, more than 4,000 animals have been sterilized under the city's free castration initiative.

Eligibility requires owners to be residents of Nova Iguaçu, over 18 years old, and to present identification, CPF and proof of address. Each owner may register one animal per month, while registered protectors may bring up to four animals. Animals must be 6 months to 7 years old, meeting weight and health criteria. The city also operates a “Castramóvel” that visits neighborhoods to provide the service.

The program aims to control the local pet population, reduce abandonment, curb mistreatment and limit the spread of zoonotic diseases.