Amazingly yummy organic apple treats for dogs!

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FDA Reports Almost 600 Dog Deaths Linked to Jerky Treats

Despite testing hundreds of samples and inspecting facilities in China, investigators still can't identify the source of the problem.

According to a new report from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, there are still plenty of reasons to be careful about giving your dog those jerky treats that they so dearly love. Earlier this year, Joe's Jerky Treats and Dogswell announced recalls of their treats made in China because of contamination with salmonella and antibiotic residue. On Tuesday, the FDA released a progress report stating that reports of illness or death due to jerky treats have declined sharply since the product recalls, but it's still investigating, and it says vets and pet owners should still be cautious.

The FDA reported more than 3,000 complaints about illness linked to chicken, duck, or sweet potato jerky treats, including almost 600 deaths since 2007. The problems include gastrointestinal and kidney problems, including Fanconi syndrome.

Bernadette Dunham, director of the FDA's Center for Veterinary Medicine, says that "This is one of the most elusive and mysterious outbreaks we've encountered." The FDA reports that it has tested 1,200 samples and inspected facilities in China, but it still can't find the source of the problems. Dunham says that "Our beloved four-legged companions deserve our best effort, and we are giving it," and that the FDA wants to hear from veterinarians and consumers about any symptoms that might be connected to jerky treats.

So what do you look for if you're afraid that your beloved pet might have gotten a bad treat? A fact sheet released by the FDA says that the most common symptoms include decreased appetite, low energy, increased water consumption, urination, diarrhea, or vomiting within a few hours of eating a jerky treat. Even though reports are declining, for now it might be a good idea to look for alternative tasty rewards for your four-legged friend.

Via Food and Drug Administration Website

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Dogswell Recalls Chicken and Duck Jerky Treats Made in China

Heads-up, dog people: The treats contain residue of an antibiotic that's not approved for use in the United States.

Dogswell is voluntarily withdrawing certain Dogswell and Catswell jerky treats made with chicken or duck with a “Best Before” date of Jan. 28, 2015, or any earlier date. 

The culprit is one we've seen before: trace amounts of an antibiotic residue that has not been approved for use in the United States, though it is important to note that this antibiotic is accepted for use in other countries, including the European Union.

The New York State Department of Agriculture & Markets discovered the residue during routine testing of a sample of Dogswell Happy Hips Chicken Breast Jerky. The department notified the company during the week of July 22, and the company voluntarily recalled Chicken Breast and Duck Breast jerky under the following brands: Breathies, Happy Heart, Happy Hips, Mellow Mut, Shape Up, Veggie Life, Vitality, and Vitakitty. 

This recall covers brands that are labeled with a “Best Before” date of Jan. 28, 2015, or any earlier date. The company says the jerky treats were made in China.

The company stresses that the rest of its products are safe, that no animals have become sick, and that there is no evidence that products containing trace amounts of this antibiotic pose a health risk for pets.

  Interestingly, the company explains why it uses products made in China, which is ground zero in the ongoing chicken jerky treat debacle. It says that most Dogswell products are made in the U.S., but "some" are made in China. Why? The company explains:

"China is a country where dark meat is more popular due to its inherent fat and flavor. Dogswell believes it is less wasteful to obtain our white meat in China where it is abundant, rather than sourcing it domestically, where white meat is less available and held at a premium. Not only do we care about your pet's health by sourcing only the healthiest meat available, we also practice sustainability by reducing as much waste as possible."

The company also explains its treatment of chickens: "Cage-free chickens are kept in barns where they can roam, scratch and perch as they please. Our chickens eat a natural diet, have plenty of room to roam, and live and grow free of stress."

For more information, and to received a full refund for an affected product, you can call Dogswell at 1-888-559-8833. Visit the website here.

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Oh Hell No: Dog Treats Are Being Made from Meat of an Endangered Whale

A Japanese company sells dog snacks made from North American fin whales hunted in Iceland.

As if we weren't worrying enough already about the scary byproducts and dead pets that go into dog food, a Japanese food company gives us another thing to fret over, and this one should make you outraged: Whale meat in dog treats. 

Michinoku Farm, a Tokyo-based company, is selling on its website "whale chews" made from endangered North American fin whales. They're described as a "low calorie, low fat, high protein" snack. The whales are hunted in Iceland, and the meat is sent to Japan. The company also sells treats made from Mongolian horses and kangaroos. 

That's not the only ick factor: It's a status thing. 

"The most likely reason for shops to sell the whale meat dog treat is to target affluent Japanese who want to show off their wealth with something different," said Nanami Kurasawa, executive director of Japanese conservation group IKAN, according to the Express.

Since 2006, conservation groups report, Iceland has killed 496 minke whales and 280 endangered fin whales, and it has exported more than 2,800 tons of whale products to Japan. This unnecessary foray into pet food is rankling animal rights groups. 

Susan Millward, executive director of the Animal Welfare Institute, told the Express: “Turning an endangered whale species into pet snacks is deplorable and seems to be nothing more than a desperate attempt to keep a cruel and unnecessary industry alive at any cost.”

IKAN's Kurasawa is appealing to the integrity of his countrymen to not purchase the treats. 

“What the Japanese public must ask ourselves is, ‘Just because it’s cheap, do our morals allow turning endangered species, which don't belong to Japan, into dog treats and selling them online?’"

"I, for one, think this is a disgrace,” he said. 

Commercial whaling is, of course, banned internationally. How are Iceland and Japan able to skirt the rules? That hasn't been a problem: They simply ignore the ban.

Via the Express

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Product Review: Orijen Dog Treats

“Your dog is a carnivore.” This is a very sensible statement from the back of the Orijen package. Dogs are designed to thrive on whole pray such as game, fish and fowl. In a natural state, dogs are equipped to hunt and scavenge meat, and do not naturally consume grains, fruits, vegetables or other food sources except what might be in the digestive tracts of their prey.

Orijen treats are made with 100% meat, poultry or fish, freeze dried in the company’s own kitchens (never outsourced), without cooking and without preservatives. The only preservative is that it is dried, which helps it last long enough for the retailers to get it, put it on the shelf, and sell it to shoppers.

We tested the Alberta Wild Boar flavor, which contains boar meat and boar from boar raised free-range on Alberta, Canada’s fertile woodland farms. Sounds healthy and tasty, doesn’t it? The treats smell natural without smelling strong.

Our test dogs found the treats to be delicious. I used them to drill recalls on an older puppy who isn’t so good at coming when called. We were at a lake, and she was off the leash. I put her in a sit before I let her go, and gave her one of these treats. Then she was free to roam. I called her and gave her another one, and that’s all it took. Every time I prepared to do another recall, I would open the resealable zip-top bag (which keeps the treats fresh) and get one out. Then I would turn around and take a breath to call her. But there she’d be, at my feet, having heard the bag open. Ha! She could hear that bag open at 100 paces. Can you imagine how tasty a treat has to be to tear a puppy away from the wonders of a lake? All that sand, mud, dead fish to roll on, water to splash on, turkeys to chase, high grass to explore …. she came a’running when she heard that bag.

The retailer indicates that there are about 40 pieces in a 2 ounce bag. However, I think this is a conservative number. I have been feeding these treats for a few days, and I still have 40 pieces in the bag. I would have estimated 55 – 60 pieces. But it’s good to know that they’re not overestimating. You’ll get at least 40 pieces in your bag. These are great for training treats because they can be eaten by small or large dogs in a single bite, which helps you hold the dog’s focus (any treat that the dog has to stop and chew up, dropping pieces on the floor, can interrupt your momentum, especially when teaching something new).

I like that they don’t leave my hands stinky and messy. I mean, hot dogs are very motivating to dogs, but yuck! Who wants that sticky mess on your hands? Kibble just isn’t very interesting, at least to my dogs. So these are perfect. I’m going to get some to give to my trainer friends.

These treats are all meat, no fillers. That’s how our dogs want to eat, how they’re equipped to survive. These treats are dried, but still a little soft.

Available at: Chewy.com. We love Chewy because they have an auto-ship feature so you can get your treats delivered on a regular schedule, and never run out again.

Price: 2 oz bag (40 pieces): $7.99, 3.5 oz bag (80 pieces): $12.99

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Recall Alert! Nearly 50 Types of Kasel Dog Treats May Be Tainted with Salmonella

Check the labels below to make sure you aren't serving your dog treats with a side of salmonella.

Kasel Associated Industries of Denver, CO, announced a huge voluntary recall this week, incorporating ALL products manufactured at its Denver plant from April 20 through September 19 of last year. 

The reason? Possible Salmonella contamination. However, Kasel says it has not received any reports of illness in connection with the products.  

The Kasel brands being recalled include Boots & Barkley, BIXBI, Nature’s Deli, Colorado Naturals, Petco, and Best Bully Sticks. The specific products number nearly 50, including all manner of dog treats, including bully sticks, chicken jerky, pigs ears, beef ribs, beef knuckles, lamb jerky, pork femur, buffalo hearts, pig snouts, lobster tails, knee caps, beef liver, hearts of lamb, pork jerky, chicken-stuffed femur bone, smoked-beef femur bone, and more -- the list is long. 

If you have have products from any of these brands on your shelves, check the FDA page to identify UPC codes, lot numbers, and best-buy dates for the infected products here.  

According to the FDA, "Pets with Salmonella infections may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, and vomiting. Some pets will have only decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. Infected but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed the recalled product and has any of these signs, please contact your veterinarian."

If you have questions, call Kasel Associated Industries at 1-800-218-4417.

In other recall news, Nature’s Variety has announced a voluntary recall of one batch of Instinct Raw Organic Chicken Formula due to plastic pieces found in bags. The company says the clear plastic pieces present a choking risk to dogs, though it fails to mention the source of the plastic. 

The recall includes the following products with "Best if Used By" date of 10/04/13:

UPC# 7 69949 60137 1 – Instinct Raw Organic Chicken Formula medallions, 3 lbs. bag UPC# 7 69949 70137 8 – Instinct Raw Organic Chicken Formula medallions, 27 lbs. case UPC# 7 69949 60127 2 – Instinct Raw Organic Chicken Formula patties, 6 lbs. bag UPC# 7 69949 70127 9 – Instinct Raw Organic Chicken Formula patties, 36 lbs. caseThe affected products were distributed through retail stores and the Internet in the United States and Canada. The company says no other products were impacted.

If you have questions, call Nature’s Variety Consumer Relations team at 1-888-519-7387.

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Wellness Dry Dog Food and Charlee Bear Dog Treats Announce Recalls

In unrelated recalls, Wellness and Charlee Bear both take products off store shelves over Salmonella fears.

Charlee Bear Products announced the company is voluntarily recalling certain lots of Protein Crunch Bar products due to Salmonella fears. The recall went into affect after a sample tested positive for Salmonella.

The recall affects two flavors in the 5.5-oz package size, which were distributed nationally in September and October 2012.

The first, Chicken Recipe with Carrots, has UPC Code: 8710890000 and includes these lot numbers:

Lot number 19812;  Best by date: 07-16-2015;Lot number 19912; Best by date: 07-17-2015Lot number 20012; Best by date: 07-18-2015Lot number 20212; Best by date: 07-20-2015

The second, Chicken Recipe with Sweet Potatoes, has UPC Code 8710890001 and includes just a single lot number:

Lot number 20112; Best by date: 07-19-2015

To contact the company, call (800) 396-8893 or email info@charleebear.com.

Next up with a recall is Wellpet, which posted on its Wellness Facebook page that a "small amount" of Small Breed Adult Health Dry Dog Food (12 pound) with the Best By date of August 18, 2013, did not meet the company's "high standards."

The company found a higher moisture content in the product, which has the potential to cause mold before its expiration date.

To contact Wellness, call (800) 225-0904.

If you suspect your pet is infected with Salmonella from either of these recalls, watch for the warning signs, via the FDA:

Pets with Salmonella infections may have decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. If left untreated, pets may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever and vomiting. Infected but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.

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Play-Dead-A-Palooza Calls Attention to Tainted Dog Treats

The event aims to educate people about tainted Chinese jerky by setting a record for dogs playing dead.

With the constant onslaught of recalls and warnings about tainted treats from China, giving your pup a tasty snack has come to feel like a game of Russian roulette. If chicken jerky made for humans was suddenly killing off hundreds of people, there would probably be an immediate halt to its import, but the unfortunate fact is that these treats are still available in pet shops throughout the United States. While we've always carefully considered what we put in our dogs' bodies, we know have to take time to read the fine print.

In an effort to raise awareness, Bixbi Pet Products and Recordsetter is holding a Play-Dead-A-Palooza this weekend in Boulder, CO. Trying to warn the public about the dangers of jerky treats from China, the event hopes to set its own record for the most dogs playing dead at the same time (just playing dead -- all dogs involved are alive and well).

With an alarming number of dogs becoming sick or dying after eating Chinese-manufactured chicken jerky treats, it's become an epidemic that warrants more than just a recall. By gathering a record-setting number of dogs in one park to play dead, Play-Dead-A-Palooza hopes to bring attention to a scary situation in a playful way, so that no more humans have to suffer as Terry did when Samson -- her Fox Terrier mix -- died as a result of consuming tainted treats.

Find out more information at the Facebook event page.

Will your dog be playing dead as part of Play-Dead-A-Palooza?

Photo: A cute Chihuahua in the grass by Shutterstock.com

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Make your own healthy, safe chicken jerky treats for your dog!

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Politicos Calls for FDA to Speed Up Investigation of Chicken Jerky Treats from China

Chicken jerky treats from China: A treat to die for, or a treat to die from?

We’ve been writing in recent years about what seem to be the terrible, sometimes deadly, effects of some chicken jerky treats made in China. Our most recent article brought a barrage of your horror stories.

Here’s what the FDA is saying about what to do if you decide to feed your dog these treats:

“FDA is advising consumers who choose to feed their dogs chicken jerky products to watch their dogs closely for any or all of the following signs that may occur within hours to days of feeding the products: decreased appetite; decreased activity; vomiting; diarrhea, sometimes with blood; increased water consumption and/or increased urination. If the dog shows any of these signs, stop feeding the chicken jerky product. Owners should consult their veterinarian if signs are severe or persist for more than 24 hours. Blood tests may indicate kidney failure (increased urea nitrogen and creatinine). Urine tests may indicate Fanconi syndrome (increased glucose). Although most dogs appear to recover, some reports to the FDA have involved dogs that have died.”

That’s serious stuff, and in my view, not worth any dog’s life for a few minutes (or seconds, in Jake’s case) of chewing pleasure.

But most consumers are completely unaware of the potential risks of feeding their dogs these jerky treats. For many, the first time they heard about the possible problems was by reading Dogster. That’s just not good enough. And even our readers can be confused. A cursory look at a bag of these treats might indicate they’re made in the USA, since they’re generally from American companies, but that might just be where they’re packaged, not made. Should we have to examine the fine print on every package to make sure our dogs don’t endure some of the potential effects, or is it time for the FDA to step it up a bit?

(From the Flickr photostream of Oliver Ruhm)

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown thinks it’s high time the FDA moves quickly to protect consumers. The Ohio senator is calling for the FDA to speed up its investigation and withdraw the treats from the market, according to the Cleveland Plain Dealer.

“”I urge you to promptly pursue efforts to find the contaminant in these pet foods, alert customers of the dangers of these products, and make sure the products found harmful are pulled from the retail market,” he wrote in a letter to FDA Commissioner Margaret H. Hamburg.

Cleveland Democratic Rep. Dennis Kucinich also sent a letter to Hamburg last week:

“The FDA must not wait to issue a voluntary recall until it is able to definitively identify a causal agent,” he wrote. “The FDA has clearly established an association between consumption of the chicken jerky and illness and death. It is simply not feasible to expect every dog owner to be aware of a modestly publicized warning from the FDA.”

He put it very well. The investigation into the possible problems with the jerky treats shouldn’t need to be complete for the FDA to have the treats at least temporarily pulled from the market until the results are more conclusive either way.

The treat companies say there’s nothing wrong with their products, and the FDA still doesn’t know why dogs are becoming ill, and suspects some of the problems could be caused by something other than consuming jerky. That’s probably true. The other day Jake had pretty bad diarrhea. If he’d had a jerky treat before that, I’d probably have pointed a finger at the treats. Associations can be damning, but in this case there seems to be enough circumstantial evidence to justify providing an extra layer of consumer safety.

These Ohio politicians are not taking this lightly. Your state’s representatives may be bolster their pleas with their own arguments about putting safety first. Here’s a list of contact information for U.S. senators, which you can sort by state. And here’s a page that provides contact info for your congressperson in the U.S. House of Representatives. You can reach out to FDA Commissioner Hamburg at margaret.hamburg@fda.hhs.gov.

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Gnawin’ Forever Treats

Ainsworth Pet Nutrition sent me samples of the Gnawin’ Forever chew treat and a couple refill insert from (available exclusively from)  Pet Food Direct to do a review on.  I held on to them to use as their b-day pressies. Tonight I opened them to give it a try.   They have an entertaining animated commercial on their youtube page with Chompers the bull dog.

Its really a rather ingenious toy that boasts “upto two hours of chew time”.  Conservatively, I would say Rufus had it devoured in less than 15 minutes.  Clearly Rufus’s mouth is alot bigger than Chompers lol.  I was a little disappointed that it took him such a short time to finish it off, but this is the same dog that can down a large Busy Bone or Jumbone in less than 5 minutes.  Had he not been able to get the whole thing in his mouth and slobber all over it, it probably would have lasted much longer.  A smaller breed dog or one that is less aggressive of a chewer would certainly get significantly more time out of it.

The rubber outer housing twists apart and a chew insert (which smells incredible to the dogs, they wouldn’t leave me alone while I was trying to open the package) can be inserted on the inner peg.  There is a small space between the insert and the post so it spins around much to the delight and frustration to the dog.  You should have seen him trying to figure out how to get ahold of the chew treat inside.

I handed it to Brutus first, but he wasn’t quite sure what to do with it so I gave it to Rufus and he figured it out in no time flat.  He absolutely LOVED it.  In fact he loved it so much he licked the carpet clean well after it was finished and wouldnt let any of the other dogs have it.  He usually isnt possessive of his toys so this one really struck a chord with him.  Look at the intensity…

After Rufus finished his off, I refilled it and gave it back to Brutus and he knew exactly what to do with it after watching his brother.  I set the stop watch on him to see how long it took him to devour it and it took even less time.  He had the whole thing in his mouth and had broken off the first hunk of it in less than 60 seconds.  The entire thing, save some crumbs, was gone in under seven minutes and thirty seconds.

Rufus then stole the empty rubber dumbbell housing back and laid on his pillow and licked the crumbs that were left behind in the grooves for another hour plus… He even tried to take it outside with him when he went to pee for fear one of the other dogs would take it.

They really enjoyed it though and were certainly in blissful delight while they had a go at it.  The housing is available exclusively at petfooddirect.com for $26.99 and comes with 3 inserts, each additional two insert pack is $9.99.  After the initial investment of the housing, it is comparable in price to a large Jumbone or large Busy Bone which it did outlast and they found it a lot more enjoyable.  My only suggestion would be for them to make a BIGGER one for giant breed dogs.

Rufus does have a bit of a sensitive stomach and so far so good… no gas or otherwise, yet.  And yes, that’s Toddlers in Tiara’s you hear in the background.  We (ok, me) got sucked into an all day marathon… don’t judge. The show is like a train wreck you just cant look away from.

***EDITED TO ADD*** It has been over 24 hours and zero gas and all digestive processes were normal!  So they get my sensitive tummy stamp of approval!  Rufus also carried it to bed last night and hasnt let it out of his sight.  I do believe a standing order for refills needs be made.  He’s never shown such interest in a toy before.

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Recall Alert: Single Lot of Merrick Doggie Wishbone Dog Treats

Merrick Doggie Wishbone (beef tendon)

Merrick Pet Care, Inc. is recalling a single lot – about 250 cases – of its Doggie Wishbone dog treats because of potential salmonella contamination. The product is item # 29050, UPC # 2280829050, Lot 11031 Best By 30 Jan 2013

The FDA found the potential salmonella during a routine inspection.

No additional Merrick Pet Care products are involved in this recall.

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Merrick recalls Doggie Wishbone treats due to salmonella

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Frozen chicken treats are perfect right now

Most of the country is baking hot right now; other than perhaps Seattle. As my dogs were flat on the tile floor in front of the fans today I decided to make one of their favorite hot weather treats.

You’ll need a muffin tin, to hold either six or twelve muffins. You will also need some paper liners, some shredded cooked chicken, and water.  Place a paper liner in each hole of the muffin tin. Divide the chicken into six or twelve portions and place it in the liners. (I’m not giving you any set amount because it doesn’t really matter as long as there is some for each treat.) Then cover the chicken with water and place the muffin tin in the freezer.

When the treats are frozen, pop them out of the muffin tin, peel off the paper and give them to your dog. I give them outside because they can be messy.

To make a variation of this treat, I have often added bits of grated carrot, apple slices, or blueberries. A word of warning, though, if you add blueberries the treats will really be messy so be prepared.

I always make these with chicken because I cook it a lot for me and there are usually leftovers. However I don’t see any reason why you can’t use other meats.

Now Xena, the Warrior Cat also likes these treats so I have use a miniature muffin tin for her. Although she likes chicken and often tries to swipe some of the dogs’ treats, when I make hers I often use a little tuna. I don’t give it to her for meals so it’s a special treat when she gets some.

Top: Ready for the freezer.

Bottom: Riker enjoying his treat.

Photos by Liz Palika

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Recall Alert: Keys Manufacturing Co. Pig Ear Dog Treats

Keys Manufacturing Co., of Illinois, is recalling its pig ear dog treats because they may be contaminated with Salmonella. The recall was issued after a dog became ill in Missouri because of the treats.

Pig Ears for Pet Treats were distributed in Pennsylvania, Virginia, Missouri, Iowa, Ohio, Illinois, Florida, Kentucky, Michigan, Arkansas, Indiana, Louisiana, Texas and Minnesota.

Most people probably don’t know the maker of their dog’s pig-ear treats, because they’re usually sold individually from bulk bins. Some helpful information for those seeking to know the origin of their dog’s pig ear treats: The product was distributed in 100 count cases packed in cardboard boxes shipped between Sept. 27-Oct. 6, 2010; Nov. 1-Nov. 29, 2010; and Jan. 3-Jan. 25, 2011. The UPC number is: 7 61094 15000. On two sides of the cardboard box it says: PET TREATS NOT FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION and on the other two sides PET PRODUCTS 100 PCS. SMOKED AND 100 PCS REGULAR. Here’s the company’s warning about Salmonella dangers to pets and people:

People handling dry pet food and/or treats can become infected with Salmonella, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the chews or any surfaces exposed to these products. Healthy people infected with Salmonella should monitor themselves for some or all of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. Rarely, Salmonella can result in more serious ailments, including arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, and urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with this product should contact their healthcare providers.

Pets with Salmonella infections may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, and vomiting. Some pets will have only decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. Infected but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.

Consumers who have purchased Pig Ears for Pet Treats should return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. If you have questions, the company welcomes calls at (217) 465-4001.

View the original article here

Recall Alert: Certain Pig-Ear Dog Treats

Jones Natural Chews Co. is recalling 2,705 boxes of pig-ear treats for dogs because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella. They don’t all come under the Jones label, so read on if you have pig-ear treats in the house, even if they’re not Jones-labeled treats.

Here’s some info from a press release the company has issued:

Jones Natural Chews Pig Ears were distributed in CT, IA, IL, MA, ME, MI, MN, MO, MT, NC, ND, NJ, NM, NY, PA,VA, WA, and WI. They were shipped to distributors and retailers between September 15, 2010 and November 2, 2010, where they were available for purchase.

The recalled packages:

Jones Natural Chews Co Pig Ears 2pk bag with header card–item upc 741956001047 lot 2420

Jones Natural Chews Co Pig Ears bulk 100ct box-box upc 741956001139 lot 2490, 2560, 2630, 2700, 2840, 2910, 2980

Jones Natural Chews Co Pig Ears bulk 50 ct box-box upc 741956001504 lot 2490, 2840

Jones Natural Chews Co Pig Ears bulk 25ct box-box upc 741956001467 lot 2700

Jones Natural Chews Co Pig Ears 1pk shrinkwrapped-item upc 741956001146 lot 2700, 2840, 2420

Jones Natural Chews Co Pig Ears 10pk printed bag-item upc 741956001405 lot 2420, 2560, 2630, 2840

Blain’s Farm & Fleet Pig Ears 10 pieces bag-item upc 741956001405 lot 2560

Country Butcher Dog Chews Pig Ears 1pk shrinkwrapped-item upc 741956001511 lot 2630

Country Butcher Dog Chews Pig Ears 1pk shrinkwrapped-item upc 741956001146 lot 2420

Country Butcher Dog Chews Pig Ears 12pk bag-item upc 741956001245 lot 2910

No illnesses have been reported to date.

The recall was the result of a routine sampling program by Washington State Department of Agriculture, which revealed that the finished products contained the bacteria. The company has no product left in inventory from this batch of pig ears.

Consumers who have purchased any of these pig ears are urged to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 1-877-481-2663.

Salmonella can affect animals and there is risk to humans from handling contaminated pet products. People handling dry pet food and/or treats can become infected with Salmonella, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the chews or any surfaces exposed to these products.

Healthy people infected with Salmonella should monitor themselves for some or all of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. Rarely, Salmonella can result in more serious ailments, including arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, and urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with this product should contact their healthcare providers.

Pets with Salmonella infections may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, and vomiting. Some pets will have only decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. Infected but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.

View the original article here

Fruitables All-Natural Pumpkin & Bluebery Dog Treats, 7-Ounce Pouch

Combining Nature's tastiest Fruits and Vegetables to create the world's finest pet foods... they're Fruitables. These Pumpkin Powered Pet Treats provide a truly amazing sensory experience in each fresh pack. Hints of cinnamon, vanilla, and selected fruits accent a warm pumpkin muffin aroma. Great things happen when you treat your pet with Fruitables! love life together.

Price: $10.99

Click here to buy from Amazon

Merrick Pet Care Recalls Jr. Texas Taffy Pet Treats

Merrick Pet Care is recalling its Jr. Texas Taffy pet treat (Item # 27077, UPC # 02280827077, all Lots up to and including 10364) because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella. So far no illnesses have been reported. A company press release states that so far no illnesses have been reported, but that “Merrick Pet Care has made the decision to recall all Jr. Texas Taffy pet treats in the abundance of caution.”

Anyone who has purchased the Jr. Texas Taffy treats should return the unused portion to the place of purchase for a full refund. (Be sure to wash your hands immediately after handling them.) Read more about Salmonella symptoms here. If you have questions, phone Merrick at 800/664-7387 M-F 8 am – 5 pm CST.

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Wellness Pure Rewards Venison Jerky Dog Treats, 6-Ounce Pouch

Wellness Pure Rewards All-Natural Delicious Venison Jerky Bits for Dogs are the simplest way to treat your pet. We start with 95% pure, high quality meat, poultry or salmon, then add just enough natural stabilizers to package them and keep them moist. These highly flavorful, protein-packed jerky bits are the ideal size for training and treating. Pure and simple, these Pure Rewards, are just as nature intended.

Price: $8.99

Click here to buy from Amazon

Chicken Jerky-Kingdom Pets Healthy Dog Treats, 3lbs

100% Real Chicken Breast Meat

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION:
Crude Protein (Min.)...65.0%,
Crude Fat (Min.)...1.5%,
Crude Fat (Max.)...3.5%,
Crude Fiber (Max.)...1.0%,
Moisture (Max.)... 14.0%

NO Melamine
NO Wheat Gluten
NO Salmonella
NO Artificial Colors
NO Bacteria
NO Pesticides
NO By-products
NO Fillers
NO Hormones
Free Range

Price: $39.99

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