Eduardo Caioado, a 17-year-old animal enthusiast from Anápolis, Brazil, has dedicated himself to rescuing abandoned animals in his neighborhood since the tender age of nine. Recently, with the support of his family, Eduardo turned his passion into reality by establishing the EduPaçoca Institute, his very own animal shelter.
Expressing his altruistic vision, Eduardo shared with Boredpanda, “I want to make the world a better place. I believe that the miracles people seek are found in the daily deeds we perform, whether it’s feeding a stray puppy or writing letters to the elderly.”
Eduardo achieved his long-held dream of founding the institute just a month ago. He rented a house with the help of sponsors, and despite covering the 30 kilometers to the shelter daily, he finds the experience to be exactly what he had hoped for. He emphasized, “I’m not asking for a deposit for a puppy; I’m searching for a home. I want them to know that even if they are not adopted, they will be with me until the day they die.”
The inspiration for the sanctuary struck Eduardo in March when he noticed an increasing number of homeless dogs while feeding them. Taking action, he gathered 10 dogs that chose to join him. Living in a cold climate, Eduardo recognized the dire conditions these animals faced, as many abandoned pets succumb to hypothermia or other illnesses due to the lack of local regulations supporting animals in need.
The EduPaçoca Institute stands out for its recreational nursery, where rescued dogs engage in various activities to prepare them for adoption. Eduardo envisions the institute as more than just a safe haven, aiming for the dogs to be happy and healthy in a recreational childcare setting. He is committed to providing special care for their damaged hearts, as many arrive scared, hurt, and insecure.
Eduardo expressed, “I realized they had similar feelings to us over those years of feeding animals on the streets.” To create a positive atmosphere, he introduced a nursery filled with colors, toys, entertainment, activities, music, dancing, theme parties, and birthdays.
Currently housing 22 dogs and four cats, Eduardo’s shelter is small but impactful. Despite facing challenges in deciding whom to accommodate due to space limitations, he finds fulfillment in witnessing the joy, trust, and appreciation in the eyes of the animals he can assist.
While EduPaçoca Institute is a dream come true for Eduardo, he acknowledges the massive undertaking and remains confident in his ability to continue this meaningful work. Help spread the word about Eduardo’s inspiring journey by sharing this story with your friends!
