A loyal dog who refused to leave his owner’s graveside for a decade has inspired a new law allowing pets to be buried with their families in Brazil.
As reported by the BBC, the legislation has now come into force in the state of Sao Paulo, permitting cats and dogs to be buried in family graves as long as sanitary standards are met.
The new law has been named after Bob Coveiro (gravedigger), a cemetery dog who became known for his devotion after attending his owner’s funeral in Taboao da Serra and staying there ever since.
Even when relatives tried to take him home, the loyal canine repeatedly returned to his owner’s resting place.
Loyal dog sparks new law in Brazil
Bob lived at the cemetery for around 10 years, comforting mourners and becoming a familiar presence for those who visited the site.
State representative Eduardo Nobrega wrote on Facebook, “This law recognizes the bond between families and their pets, ensures dignity at the moment of farewell, helps prevent improper disposal, and expands access to a legal and fairer alternative,” he said.
“It is not an exaggeration. It is not nonsense. It is love. And now it is also law.”
After being hit by a vehicle in 2021, Bob was buried alongside his owner, the same bond that ultimately helped shape the new legislation.
His story has drawn comparisons to Hachiko, the famously loyal Japanese dog who waited for his owner every day at Tokyo’s Shibuya Station long after the professor’s death, cementing his legacy as a global symbol of devotion.
