Cão Sem Dono

Cão Sem Dono began informally in the city of São Paulo in 2005, started by animal protector Rafael Miranda, who is still its president. Its statute was registered and it received its CNPJ (Brazil's company and non-profit registration number) on 23 April 2008. The name means "dog without an owner", and the charity's aim is to take as many animals off the streets as it can, treat them and place them with families.

Today the charity runs two shelters, with its headquarters on a large rural site in Itapecerica da Serra, south-west of São Paulo. Its own website reports 506 animals in its care, looked after by vets and a team of 33 staff, including carers, vets and veterinary assistants, a rescue team, office staff and the people who run its charity shop. It also helps feed dogs kept by other independent protectors.

Cão Sem Dono is best known for its adoption fairs, held in shopping centres and São Paulo Metro stations. Every dog is neutered, vaccinated, wormed and microchipped before adoption. Adopters must be at least 24, show ID, CPF and proof of address, pass an interview, sign an adoption agreement and pay a R$150 adoption fee, and the charity follows up for at least six months. It will not rehome dogs to work as guard dogs on commercial premises or farms.

The charity does not take rescue requests by email or phone; for emergencies in São Paulo, call the city hall on 156. You can adopt, sponsor a dog that is unlikely to be adopted, volunteer, give food, blankets, medicines or goods for its permanent charity shop (Rua Vitor Emanuel, 200, Sacomã, São Paulo), or donate by PIX, PicPay, card or bank transfer using its CNPJ.