Gordo, a 13-year-old dog, has finally found a family after nearly a decade at a São Paulo adoption center, marking a historic moment in the city's animal adoption efforts. This event took place on the pre-Carnival Sunday, reinforcing the message of compassion and the importance of adopting older pets. Gordo was the longest resident at the Coordenadoria de Saúde e Proteção ao Animal Doméstico (Cosap), having been abandoned and taken in back in 2016 when he was reported as being aggressive, though this behavior was likely a result of fear and abandonment.

His prolonged stay at the center saw him becoming a symbol for animal adoption initiatives, participating in all adoption events and even serving as a mascot for the 'Semana Animal' in 2023. The adoption team expressed that Gordo's story highlights the often-overlooked issue of elderly pets needing homes, as he was one of the 290 pets available for adoption, with a notable number being seniors. The emotional weight of this adoption resonates within the animal welfare community and serves as a reminder of the commitment necessary to care for older animals.

The adoption of Gordo demonstrates a collective effort from the community and the municipal authorities to promote animal welfare and encourage the adoption of long-term residents. It ultimately raises awareness on the needs of senior pets and fosters a culture of compassion toward animals in need, motivating potential adopters to consider older dogs and sweetheart animals waiting for their forever homes.