This morning the FDA has issued proposed new rules for pet food and treat production. There will be a comment period of 120 days and then another sixty days to put the new rules into place. So, for at least another six months, you are going to need to be vigilant.
One of a pet’s favorite treats is jerky. It appears to be one of the biggest pet food illness culprits. Since 2007, 3,600 dogs and 10 cats have suffered from jerky pet treat illnesses. Approximately 580 of those pets have died.
RECOMMENDATIONS
A. Do not feed your pet treats or foods made in China. Also, consider asking your pet food vendor where they are purchasing the products to make the food since some companies purchase Chinese products and then manufacture the treat or food in the U.S. The FDA has conducted over 1,000 tests and is working with the Chinese, but still is having trouble isolating the exact cause.
B. Also, if you place your food or treats in a container, do not dispose of the name of the product, date of production or lot number until the food or treats have been completely consumed. You may need to refer to this information.
THE BIGGEST CULPRIT SO FAR…
Jerky tenders or strips made of chicken, duck, sweet potatoes and/or dried fruit have been involved.
SYMPTOMS
Within hours, some pets have exhibited:
– decreased appetite
– decreased activity
– vomiting
– diarrhea (sometimes with blood or mucus)
– increased water consumption and/or increased urination
MORE SEVERE CASES HAVE INCLUDED
– kidney failure
– gastrointestinal bleeding
OTHER SYMPTOMS HAVE BEEN
– collapse
– convulsions
– skin issues
The FDA is recommending that you be cautious concerning giving your pet jerky treats. If you decide to continue and your pet becomes ill:
1. stop giving the treats immediately
2. consider visiting your vet
3. save packaging and treats which will be needed for testing
4. contact the FDA and veterinarian. It is important to document these illnesses
DOGFOOD RECALL ADVISOR
Go here to see the most current listing of recalls and also to sign-up to receive notifications via e-mail.
http://www.dogfoodadvisor.com/dog-food-recalls/
FDA OVERVIEW WHY JERKY TREATS ARE MAKING PETS SICK
http://www.fda.gov/forconsumers/consumerupdates/ucm371413.htm
NBC COVERAGE OF FDA ANNOUNCEMENT OF NEW RULES
http://www.nbcnews.com/health/fda-proposes-strict-new-safety-rules-animal-food-8C11462915
