Brazil police rescue 141 animals from illegal breeding kennel amid animal cruelty crackdown

Police in São Paulo’s Belenzinho neighborhood carried out a raid on a clandestine breeding operation, rescuing 141 animals – 136 cats of Bengal, Maine Coon, Sphynx and British Shorthair breeds and five German Spitz dogs – and arresting the veterinary owner for animal‑mistreatment and possession of expired medicines. A second report described the same operation, noting the recovery of 103 cats and five dogs and the seizure of a makeshift surgical centre.

In the northern state of Pará, a 15‑year‑old adolescent from Marabá confessed to torturing and killing several cats during live‑streamed videos on Telegram and Discord. Police seized the evidence, opened a case for animal‑cruelty offences and warned that the livestreams were monetized, prompting an investigation into viewers and supporters.

Meanwhile, the municipality of Mogi das Cruzes launched a free sterilisation programme – the largest of its kind in the city – capable of neutering up to 1,000 dogs and cats in a week. The initiative, organized by state officials and local representatives, aims to curb abandonment, improve animal health and reduce stray populations.