Led by Patricia Nunes and the Second Chance Institute, forceful mobilization pushes for a modern Animal Rights Code and calls for the creation of a State Department for Animal Welfare
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil — In a state long marked by institutional neglect and rising cases of animal abuse, a historic mobilization is underway to rewrite the future of animal protection in Rio de Janeiro. Spearheaded by Patricia Nunes, journalist and president of the Instituto Segunda Chance (Second Chance Institute — Human and Non-Human), the movement seeks to restructure the State Animal Rights Code and demand governmental accountability.
Backed by activists, NGOs, veterinarians, and lawmakers from across the state, the initiative focuses on overhauling Bill №4120/2024, currently under review in the State Assembly. The goal: to establish a legal framework that is technical, humane, and grounded in the real experiences of those who rescue, treat, and mourn animals abandoned by public authorities.
A Voice for the Voiceless: A Turning Point in Maricá
The latest public hearing on June 21, held in Maricá, drew representatives from Niterói, Cabo Frio, Itaperuna, Petrópolis, São Pedro da Aldeia, Rio das Ostras, and the capital. It marked a critical moment for the movement, with powerful testimonies shedding light on a cruel reality: the state has abandoned its responsibility, forcing thousands of independent rescuers to take on roles the government refuses to fulfill.
In a passionate address, Patricia Nunes urged lawmakers to recognize the burden carried by animal advocates and delivered a proposal directly to the office of State Deputy Carlos Minc, who hosted the session. One of the key demands: the creation of a State Department for Animal Rights, something Rio de Janeiro still lacks.
“Thousands of rescuers do the State’s job every single day without any support. I called on legislators to see them — and to act. The absence of this department is not just administrative negligence; it is moral negligence,” Patricia said. “When the government looks away, it authorizes abandonment, normalizes cruelty, and institutionalizes suffering.”
A Stark Reality, in Numbers
Recent data paint a harrowing picture. The Linha Verde (Green Line) tip line received over 13,500 reports of animal abuse in 2024 — an average of 37 per day. According to the Public Security Institute (ISP-RJ), there were 930 official reports of abuse this year, 751 involving cats and dogs, with dozens of confirmed deaths. The Environmental Crimes Unit also received over 2,000 complaints in 2023.
These numbers reflect only the visible portion of a much larger crisis, one that the current legislation has failed to address.
The Second Chance Institute: More Than a Shelter
Founded in 2012 in the Lakes Region of Rio, the Second Chance Institute began as a small animal shelter. Over the years, under Patricia Nunes’ leadership, it evolved into a powerhouse of animal advocacy. To date, the organization has rescued and rehabilitated over 1,200 animals, including dogs, cats, horses, and even wildlife. The institute also engages in community outreach, policy advocacy, and environmental education, serving not only animals but also vulnerable people living alongside them.
“We’re not doing politics — we’re doing justice. Animal dignity is directly tied to human dignity. A well-designed Animal Rights Code can save countless lives,” says Nunes, who is now recognized statewide for her strategic vision in animal protection and her efforts to bridge activism and public policy.
From Outcry to Action: The Road Ahead
The revised version of Bill 4120/2024 is expected to be finalized after the legislative recess and brought to vote in the State Assembly (ALERJ). Advocates have already confirmed their presence at the next round of discussions.
The movement is determined to break with past practices of top-down lawmaking that excluded those on the front lines. The goal is to create a “living code,” built by and for those who care for the animals.
“As long as animal rescuers fail to understand that lives are decided by pens in these chambers, nothing will change,” Nunes affirmed. “And while even one animal lies injured and without aid, no city can call itself humane.”
The group also issued a direct appeal to Governor Cláudio Castro, urging him to sanction the bill once approved, and to show empathy and political will.
“This is about public health, safety, social care, love, and respect for life,” said Patricia. “We expect the governor to side with the people, the protectors, and the animals.”
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