Vaccine maker recalls rabies doses

Wasn't sure where to post this, so I posted it here because it's about dogs.

Vaccine maker recalls rabies doses
Veterinarians to notify pet owners about shots
STELLA M. HOPKINS
[email protected]

A leading rabies vaccine manufacturer has voluntarily recalled about 330,000 doses sold nationwide after a vaccinated dog contracted the deadly disease.

"They don't know why ... the animal contracted rabies," said Kelly Goss, a spokeswoman for Fort Dodge Animal Health, based in Overland Park, Kan., and a division of health care giant Wyeth. "In the best interest of pet owners and animals, we made a decision to voluntarily recall that product."

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.

Fort Dodge began selling the recalled batch in January 2005. Goss didn't know how many vets bought the problem lot. Fort Dodge tested batches of vaccine with serial numbers issued around that of the affected lot and found no problems, she said.

Animals at greatest risk are outdoor pets and those such as puppies and kittens, who received the recalled medication as their first and only vaccination, said Dr. Steve Marks of the N.C. State University College of Veterinary Medicine in Raleigh.

"If that initial vaccination did not work, then they're ... at risk for rabies," he said.

Notified pet owners should act quickly to have their animal revaccinated, Marks said, but he cautioned against panic.

"Just call your veterinarian if you're in doubt," he said.

What This Means to Pet Owners

Fort Dodge Animal Health recalled rabies vaccine Rabvac 3 TF, serial number 873113A. Your vet should notify you if your pet was vaccinated with the problem batch. You can also check the rabies certificate that you should have received, which lists the manufacturer and serial number.

Source: http://www.charlotte.com/mld/charlot...s/14786163.htm

Snuggles hasn't had one recently thank God!!!! Her last one was before then. That is terrible for all the dogs that have had one though. :eek:

Molli and Sammy haven't had a rabies shot since Sam was 12 weeks.. which I think was in November. I hope no other dog gets rabies. :(

oh my gosh!
Gracie got her rabies shot a little over a month ago. i think we're safe!

I know the company is offering free re-vaccinations for anyone's dog who received the recalled vaccine, but I would urge anyone who has used that vaccine to titre before re-vaccinating. If the dogs have an appropriate level of antibodies still built up, it really isn't an issue, and too much of a good thing can sometimes be VERY bad.