Who was Pepe Mujica?
José "Pepe" Mujica was the president of Uruguay from 2010 to 2015 and gained worldwide fame for his austere and ethical stance. Dubbed "the world's poorest president," he lived on just 10% of his salary, donating the rest to social projects, and returned to his humble farm after his term. In every gesture, Mujica taught the importance of simplicity, respect for nature, and love for others—including, of course, our four-legged best friends.
Pepe shared a vision of care and love for animals, much like Pope Francis did in his lifetime.
Meet Manuela: The Three-Legged Dog
Manuela arrived at the Rincón del Cerro farm after being rescued from an accident that cost her her left hind leg. Despite this limitation, she radiated energy and affection. Mujica recounted in several interviews how—upon seeing her limp for the first time—he felt immediate compassion and decided to offer her a home where she could live in peace.
- Name with a story: Named in honor of a Uruguayan friend who loved dogs, Manuela quickly became part of the family.
- Remarkable adaptation: Within days, she learned to hop over small steps and ran around the farm with unshakable joy.
- Strong personality: Curious and protective, she accompanied Pepe in his daily tasks, always attentive to his every move.
Surprising Facts About Their Bond
- Shared silence: Pepe Mujica revealed that, in moments of political indecision, sitting on the porch with Manuela lying at his feet was enough to find inner clarity.
- Routine of affection: Every morning, before walking through the fields, he would dedicate a long hug and a few minutes of gentle brushing.
- Mutual inspiration: In speeches, Pepe cited Manuela’s loyalty as an example of unconditional love, reminding us that pets love us without leaving room for vanity.
- Silent support: During a health crisis in 2018, Manuela remained by the former president’s bedside, as if she knew he needed comfort.
Why Is This Love So Special?
- Empathy without judgment: Manuela asked for nothing more than a little affection and, in return, offered constant companionship.
- Emotional connection: Dogs and humans create neurochemical bonds that release oxytocin, the affection hormone. For Mujica, this meant daily moments of well-being and tranquility.
- Example of humility: Even when hounded by the press, Pepe never hesitated to speak fondly of his dog, showing that everyone deserves a voice—even those who cannot speak.
Life Lessons for Pet Owners
- Cherish every moment: Just as Mujica treasured every moment with Manuela, set aside quality time with your pet—walk without rushing, play without pressure.
- Adopt, don’t shop: Rescuing an animal comes with challenges but also unique rewards. Manuela’s story proves that every life matters, even the most fragile ones.
- Adapted care: Learn to provide mobility and comfort for pets with physical limitations; ramps, soft mats, and physical therapy can make all the difference.
- Celebrate their memory: When a pet passes, turn grief into tribute: create a photo album, write a letter, or plant a tree in their honor.
Physical and Emotional Health
Living with a pet brings proven benefits: reduced stress, improved blood pressure, encouragement for physical activity, and a strengthened sense of purpose. For three-legged pets like Manuela, extra care—massages, light exercise, and regular vet visits—also nurtures our active compassion and ingenuity for adaptations.
Challenges and Triumphs
- Coping with loss: Manuela’s death in March 2025 at age 14 left a profound void in Mujica’s life. He shared an emotional post on social media, remembering how "every limping step of hers was a step of courage."
- Rebuilding routine without her: After decades of companionship, Mujica had to find new ways to fill the time he once dedicated to his dog, showing that resilience is also learned in absence.
The Death of Pepe Mujica
José "Pepe" Mujica passed away on May 13, 2025, at his farm in Rincón del Cerro, near Montevideo. His body was cremated on May 16, 2025, following his wish not to occupy excessive space and to maintain his simple life even after death. To honor Manuela—his faithful three-legged dog who died in 2018—Mujica expressly requested that his ashes be placed beside hers, under the oak tree they had shared in so many moments of peace and reflection at the farm.
Understand That...
The story of Pepe Mujica and Manuela is an invitation to honor the love that transforms, whether in constant presence or the silence of absence. We learn that:
- Greatness lies in the simplicity of a caress.
- Unconditional love does not demand perfection—only presence.
- The memory of those who have passed can be the starting point for new acts of care and empathy.
👉 If this story touched your heart, share it on social media, leave a comment about what your pet has taught you, and explore more articles on Adore Pets to keep celebrating (and remembering) those who make every day worthwhile!
What People Search About Pepe Mujica
What breed was Pepe Mujica’s dog Manuela?
Manuela was a mixed-breed street rescue with no defined breed. Despite this, her unique personality and ability to overcome the loss of a hind leg won over the former president and the world.
Did Pepe Mujica and Pope Francis meet?
Yes. José "Pepe" Mujica had a private audience with Pope Francis at the Vatican on June 1, 2013, lasting about 45 minutes. The meeting marked a dialogue between two leaders known for their emphasis on simplicity and compassion.
Was José Pepe Mujica an atheist?
Mujica publicly stated that he did not consider himself Catholic nor follow an organized religion, describing himself more as agnostic. Though he admired the Church and maintained good relations with the Pope, he said he did not believe in its dogmas.
What was the other profession of former Uruguayan president José Pepe Mujica?
Beyond politics, Mujica was a farmer and rural producer. At his Rincón del Cerro farm, he grew flowers and raised cattle, maintaining his simple lifestyle during and after his presidency.
Who is Pepe Mujica’s wife?
Pepe Mujica’s wife is Lucía Topolansky, also a prominent politician—she was a senator and even served as interim vice president of Uruguay. Together, they formed one of the country’s most influential and respected political couples.
Which Uruguayan president was Pepe Mujica?
José Mujica served as the 40th constitutional president of Uruguay, governing from March 1, 2010, to March 1, 2015.
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