Samarco, in partnership with the NGO Ajuda, which works in behalf of the cause of animals, is carrying out the Dog Vaccination Project. The second phase of the vaccination project starts in Mariana, between June 21 and 26, at the city's Convention Center, from 8 am on, with the participation of veterinarians.

The animals will receive doses of the V8 vaccine, which protects against six types of disease (distemper, canine infectious hepatitis, parvovirus, coronavirus, canine parainfluenza and leptospirosis). To be vaccinated, the animal must be healthy, not presenting fever or diarrhea, with adequate weight and, preferably, previously dewormed. During the appointments, all necessary requirements will be observed, including a clinical evaluation of the dog and complete physical examinations.

In addition to vaccination, the project includes awareness campaigns, as explained by Samarco's environmental analyst, Ana Paula Correa.

“Mariana is among the municipalities covered by the project, with an estimated canine population of around six thousand animals, and our expectation is to vaccinate as many animals as possible. But, in addition to vaccinating the animals, we address among the pet owners and communities some topics such as public health, the importance of dog population control, animal care, non-abandonment and mistreatment”, she said.

The vaccine doses were acquired by Samarco, who also bore the entire cost of consumables, specialized labor, structure to receive the animals and the community, and the supply of vehicles for transport.

The project

In the first phase, vaccination took place in public shelters, Zoonoses and community shelter centers, local NGOs and also among people who have a large number of animals under their temporary care. The action complies with the protocols established by the health authorities in combating Covid-19.

The project will be carried out in 39 municipalities in Minas Gerais, in the territories neighboring the company´s operations - Mariana, Ouro Preto, Catas Altas and Santa Bárbara - as well as other localities along the Doce River that were impacted by the collapse of the Fundão dam. The initiative is one of the conditions provided for in the Corrective Operation License (LOC), a document issued in December 2020 which was necessary for the resumption of the company's activities.