Russian authorities have initiated a criminal investigation into the distribution of a canine vaccine linked to the deaths of numerous dogs. The Prosecutor General’s Office revealed that inspectors found a forged quality certificate for the vaccine, although the specific product and manufacturer remain unnamed.
Reports indicate that the investigation is focusing on the Moscow-based pharmaceutical company Vetbiochim, which produces the widely used Multican-8 vaccine. Since August, at least 169 dogs, primarily in the Yaroslavl region, have died after receiving doses of this vaccine, which was found to contain a live virus deadly to dogs.
Vetbiochim began recalling several batches of Multican-8 in late August following reports of dog illnesses and fatalities. In response to the investigation, the company stated it is fully cooperating with authorities and conducting an internal audit to determine how the contaminated vaccine and fraudulent documents were permitted. They emphasized their commitment to transparency and accountability, aiming for a thorough investigation to ensure those responsible face consequences.
