Cuiabá moves zoonoses center and expands animal welfare complex amid canine distemper outbreak

The municipal government of Cuiabá announced it will relocate the Center of Control of Zoonoses to a new, dedicated facility and convert the former site into an expanded Animal Welfare Complex. The decision follows an outbreak of canine distemper that affected 13 dogs, three of which died, while the remaining animals were transferred to accredited veterinary clinics.

Councilor Dídimo Vovô criticized the conditions in a temporary shed where infected dogs were kept, describing a lack of ventilation, electricity and proper isolation. He said, “Presenciamos alguns animais já em estado gravíssimo, animais com cinomose num ambiente fechado, sem condições, sem energia, sem ventilação.” The city council confirmed that power was restored on Monday and that the dogs received water, food and specialized treatment.

Mayor Abilio Brunini explained that the new zoonoses facility will provide a safer environment for managing infectious diseases, adding, “Aquele local vai passar por uma reforma e adequações para que, no futuro, possa ser utilizado como área de expansão do Bem Estar Animal.” The restructuring aims to improve sanitary safety for both animals and the public.