Picture this: the sun-kissed streets of São José do Rio Preto, where a special breed of furry friends roams freely, capturing the hearts of locals. These are the “caramelos,” the lovable mutts with no defined breed but overflowing with personality. It’s as if they embody the spirit of Brazil itself, carefree and charming, with a knack for winning over anyone they encounter.
As you stroll through the city, you can’t help but notice these caramel-colored canines scattered across the landscape. Their presence is undeniable, their appeal widespread. Thaís Regina dos Santos, a local entrepreneur, remarks on their prevalence, noting, “It’s a color that stands out a lot. It’s hard to explain why, right? There are spotted ones, black and white, but ‘caramelo’ is very common.”
One such local celebrity is Bóris, a street-wise pup under the loving care of Lourdes Correia. Despite his rough exterior, Bóris is a beloved member of the community, charming everyone he meets. As Alba Cumba, a veterinarian, points out, while mutts like Bóris may evade certain genetic illnesses due to their mixed heritage, they still require proper care and attention to thrive.
Venturing to Mirassol, we meet Natália Sanches and her fiancé, who share their home with two caramel-colored companions, Clóvis and Cleide. These siblings, rescued from the streets, may look alike but possess distinct personalities. Cleide, the drama queen of the duo, once went missing for four days, sending her family into a panic. Now, she sports a collar with her name and contact information, ensuring she never strays too far from home again.
In another corner of the city resides Marello, a carefree wanderer who found a permanent home with Maria Célia and her son after a chance encounter. Marello’s outgoing nature and penchant for making new friends, like his buddy Adailton Alves da Silva at the bus stop, have made him a beloved fixture in the neighborhood. Despite his occasional escapades, Marello’s charm and charisma win over everyone he encounters.
These caramel-colored companions, with their gentle demeanor and unwavering loyalty, have become synonymous with affection and companionship in the community. As young Enzo Ricardo eloquently puts it, “Ah, they represent Brazil, don’t they?” Indeed, these mutts embody the essence of Brazilian warmth, resilience, and the innate ability to capture the hearts of all who cross their path.
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