Russia orders destruction of dog vaccine linked to pet deaths

Russian veterinary regulator Rosselkhoznadzor has ordered the destruction of a batch of the widely used Multican-8 dog vaccine after discovering a live Aujeszky's disease virus in samples. The regulator confirmed a link between the vaccine and a series of pet deaths reported across Russia since August.

Batch 20, produced by Moscow-based Vetbiokhim, contained 60,000 doses. Reports of severe adverse reactions and animal deaths have emerged from Moscow, St. Petersburg, and at least eight other regions, including Krasnodar, Yaroslavl, and Belgorod. The State Duma reported receiving approximately 300 complaints regarding pet deaths related to the vaccine.

While Vetbiokhim initially suggested potential sabotage by third parties, investigators found evidence of serious production violations instead. The company faces potential license revocation. Vetbiokhim has reportedly entered into compensation agreements with affected owners, offering between 200,000 and 300,000 rubles per case, contingent upon signing non-disclosure agreements.