São Joaquim de Bicas and Nova Iguaçu launch free pet sterilization drives

The municipality of São Joaquim de Bicas (Brazil) opened registration on Monday for a free animal‑castration mutirão with 150 available slots for local dogs and cats. Registrations are taken in person from 08:00‑12:00 at the Didi Gouveia gym, and applicants must present ID and proof of residence (or a community‑agent declaration or municipal SUS card). Eligibility excludes brachycephalic breeds, very small or large animals, young puppies or senior pets, and those with certain health conditions.

In Nova Iguaçu, the city began online scheduling for a free‑sterilization campaign that will treat up to 780 pets in July. On Thursday, 520 online slots opened, followed by a Tuesday in‑person registration at a mobile castration unit in the Grama neighborhood. The program, running since 2023, requires residents to be over 18, provide ID, CPF and proof of address, and meet veterinary criteria (age 6 months‑7 years, weight limits, health checks). The initiative aims to curb abandonment, mistreatment and disease spread among the municipal animal population.