Netflix’s “Dogs” brings us on heartfelt adventures with man’s best friend. Each episode of the heartwarming docuseries focuses on a personal journey in the lives of people and their canine friends, sharing the bond between animals and their caregivers. The series, helmed by award-winning filmmakers, shows us that the love between man and animal is an experience that connects us universally.
In season 2 episode 4 of Netflix’s “Dogs,” a priest in Gravatá, Brazil shares his love for animals with his congregation. The influence of his message spreads throughout the city, building a grassroots network with other compassionate individuals to help save stray dogs.
Leading with Compassion in Netflix’s ‘Dogs’
The youngest of nine siblings, Father João Paulo Araujo Gomes grew up in Recife, Brazil. He tells us how his mother took him to church when he was a child. He would watch the priest lead service and soon developed a wish to do the same. When Father João grew up, he was ordained and sent to the parish of Santana in Gravatá. Father João describes the city as beautiful and bustling, but immediately became aware of a serious problem. Like in many areas of Brazil, there are many stray dogs fighting for survival on the streets. Without homes and caretakers, the dogs face a great deal of hardship and suffering.
The city lacks public policies that can help the animals and instead focuses on elimination. Father João is unable to understand how the caretakers of Earth can allow animals to suffer. The congregation begins to provide for the animals, offering food and water on the outside of the parish building. Stray dogs come and go, stopping for food or water on a hot day. Father João begins his mission by offering the dogs housing in the place he knows best — his church. He invites the dogs into services with the hopes that they will meet their new human companions.
During services, Father João reminds his parishioners of the importance of caring for animals. He celebrates the dogs, some of whom have disabilities or permanent injuries. To Father João, these are the dogs’ gifts and make them unique. A local veterinarian, Dr. Lucas, works alongside the priest to help the animals. Dr. Lucas offers medical care to the injured or ill. Together, the duo bring attention to the cause, posting adoption profiles on social media sites.
A Mission of Unconditional Love
Father João’s influence spreads across the city, mobilizing a movement to rescue and find homes for stray dogs. Others join the cause, working to care for the animals and create adoption profiles for the pups. Although the task is difficult, they know the importance of the work. Father João’s heart for the animals is evident. Finding the dogs a home is the greatest act of love, one that binds us to our canine companions.
The undying compassion shown by Father João reveals to us that in loving our animal companions, we can more deeply love one another. In this season 2 episode 4 of Netflix’s “Dogs,” we see an astounding act of unconditional love in Father Joao’s mission. There are many ways to help animals in need. Animal shelters are often overworked and understaffed and are in need of assistance. You can volunteer at an animal shelter, foster adoptable dogs, or donate to rescue organizations. Remember to adopt or rescue a canine companion, as many unwanted dogs in shelters face the risk of euthanasia. Always spay or neuter your dog. You can find more ways to help here.
