Senado Federal veterinarian dies after dog attack

Vitória Valle de Oliveira Pinha, a 36-year-old outsourced veterinarian, died following an attack by a Belgian Malinois at the Brazilian Senate Federal's kennel on August 18, 2026.

The incident occurred while Pinha was performing her duties, reportedly while providing food to the animal. The dog, part of the Senate's Cinotecnia Service used for security and detection tasks, bit her in the neck, causing a severe arterial injury and exposing part of her spine. Pinha suffered a cardiorespiratory arrest and was rushed to the Hospital de Base in critical condition, where she underwent surgery but later passed away.

The Civil Police of the Federal District have opened an investigation, currently classifying the event as a workplace accident. The Senate Federal has stated that the dog has been removed from operational duties and will undergo medical examinations. The institution confirmed the animal's vaccinations were up to date and is providing support to the victim's family.