oncilla (Leopardus pardinoides) Case Study

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MBZF Grant 250537810
Mammal

Continent: North America

Country: Panama

Grant Amount: $4,100

Awarded Date: June 17, 2025

Olga Samaniego

ECOGRAFE Panam Project


La Riviera

David

Chiriqui

0427

Panama

Tel: 507 7305300

Mob: 50769758344

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Implementing vaccination and deworming day for semi-feral dogs for conservation of tiger cats in Panamanian coffee agroecosystems.

This case study demonstrates how preventive veterinary actions reduced disease and predation risks to vulnerable small felids in Renacimiento, Panama. Six vaccination and deworming campaigns treated 173 free-roaming dogs, integrating research, community workshops, and institutional collaboration. The initiative generated scientific data, national recognition at ENADES 2025, and leveraged additional funding, strengthening long-term, One Health–based conservation outcomes through cross-sector partnerships and student-led research efforts and education.

The primary species targeted for conservation is the oncilla, or Leopardus pardinoides, whose population status is unknown because it is a recently described species. The only known fact is that its distribution areas have been restricted in Panama, and its habitat, the cloud forest ecosystem, has been impacted by feral and semi-feral dogs. This type of fauna transmits parasites and viral diseases that cause a decrease in their populations. Through six vaccination and deworming campaigns conducted from June to November, a total of 346 vaccines were administered, including rabies vaccines, achieving complete two-dose coverage for 173 free-roaming and semiferal dogs, as well as the treatment of 10 domestic cats. Dogs were vaccinated against rabies, canine distemper, adenovirus type 2, parainfluenza, parvovirus, and leptospirosis (Leptospira canicola and L. icterohaemorrhagiae), using live attenuated vaccines (Nobivac®). In addition, fenbendazole was administered as an antiparasitic treatment, dosed according to individual body weight, to reduce internal parasite loads relevant to wildlife and human health.With the support of licensed veterinarians, blood samples were collected from a subset of dogs for follow-up analyses of additional pathogens. These samples are currently under laboratory analysis and will contribute to a better understanding of disease dynamics at the wildlife–domestic animal interface. Several campaigns were conducted in collaboration with the Ministry of Health (MINSA), strengthening interinstitutional coordination and community trust in the implemented health actions.The project also strengthened scientific research, academic training, and national dissemination efforts. Under the ECOGRAFE Panamá project, student researchers Melany Pinzón and Edgar Gonzales actively participated in data collection and analysis on feral and semiferal fauna and their impacts on native wildlife. The results were presented at ENADES 2025 (National Sustainable Development Meeting), where the project received national recognition through the Rodrigo Tarté Ponce Award for Sustainability, highlighting its relevance to sustainable development and conservation.Additionally, community workshops on responsible pet ownership in wildlife areas were conducted, engaging local students and community members. These activities strengthened local awareness, encouraged community participation, and generated valuable data for ongoing research on feral and semiferal fauna and their impacts on native wildlife, with particular emphasis on small wild felids.

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MBZF Grant 250537810 - located in Panama, North America