Why are jerky treats making dogs sick? The FDA needs your help finding an answer
The FDA issues alerts to notify pet lovers about mandatory and voluntary recalls. Although they have NOT recalled jerky treats for dogs, there is no shortage of sick pets continue and the FDA has not determined a cause. As of Sept. 24, 2013, the FDA has received approximately 3,000 reports of pet illnesses that may be related to consumption of the jerky treats. The reports involve more than 3,600 dogs, 10 cats and include more than 580 deaths. Here’s the latest FDA info about these treats, which affect consumers in multiple states.
Type of warning: Advisory
FDA Advisory Announcement Date: Oct. 22, 2013.
Products: Treats sold as jerky tenders or strips made of chicken, duck, sweet potatoes and/or dried fruit. In most cases, China is the origin of these products. MSNBC notes several consumer reports linked to three brands that have factories in China: Waggin’ Train (above) and Canyon Creek Ranch by Nestle Purina, as well as Milo’s Kitchen Home-style Dog Treats by Del Monte. Check the label on your dog’s treat bag. Several U.S. companies purchase meat, vegetables or ingredients from China.
Reason for advisory: Potential contamination of Salmonella — bacteria that can affect animals eating the products. The FDA also is testing for contaminants such as metals, pesticides, antibiotics, and other chemicals and poisonous compounds.There also is risk to humans from handling contaminated products, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the products or any exposed surfaces.
Manufacture date: Ongoing. The FDA initially received reports of sick pets in 2007. They have not been able to determine the cause of these illnesses and deaths.
Distribution areas: Global. Jerky treats are sold by various pet specialty retailers, and online.
What to do:
>> Read the label: Discard any treats made in China.
>> Monitor your pets: According to the FDA, symptoms include decreased appetite, decreased activity, vomiting, diarrhea (sometimes with blood or mucus), increased water consumption and/or increased urination. Severe cases are diagnosed with pancreatitis, gastrointestinal bleeding, and kidney failure or the resemblance of a rare kidney related illness called Fanconi syndrome.
>> Help the FDA investigate these illnesses: Visit the Safety Reporting Portal (www.safetyreporting.hhs.gov) or your local FDA Consumer Complaint Coordinator (www.fda.gov/Safety/ReportaProblem/ConsumerComplaintCoordinators/default.htm). You can also contact the pet food/treats company (see packaging for contact).