Fort Dodge Animal Health, a Kansas-based rabies vaccine manufacturer, has voluntarily recalled about 330,000 rabies vaccine doses sold nationwide after a dog vaccinated with a dose from the batch became rabid.
Fort Dodge Animal Health spokeswoman Kelly Goss said its still unknown why the dog contracted rabies. In the best interest of pet owners and animals, the company decided to voluntarily recall the product, according to Goss.
The company mailed notices to veterinarians on May 25 and will reimburse them for revaccination, Goss said. Doctors are notifying pet owners to bring in animals for free shots.
The company began selling the recalled batch in January 2005, according to Fort Dodge. How many vets bought the problem lot is unclear.
Animals at the greatest risk are outdoor pets and those such as kittens and puppies. Notified pet owners are advised to act quickly to have their animal revaccinated or call their veterinarian.
Fort Dodge Animal Health recalled rabies vaccine Rabvac 3 TF, serial number 873113A. Veterinarians are expected to notify owners whose pets were vaccinated with the problem batch.
Additionally, rabies vaccination certificates list the product manufacturer and serial number.
Posted: June 15, 2006, 5:00 a.m. EST