We want to be able to trust that the food and treats we give our dogs are safe, but the history of dog food and treats recalls is frightening. From a euthanasia drug contamination to Salmonella contamination, it’s clear that substances or toxins can end up in our dogs’ food.
Indeed, in the last two weeks alone, there have been eight recalls involving dog food and treats.
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If you feed your dog commercial dog food and treats, check the FDA recalls online frequently for the latest updates. American Veterinary Medical Foundation and Petful are also great resources. If your dog has any of the symptoms listed below, get him to the veterinarian immediately.
Here’s a list of the latest recalls and what you need to know.
Smokehouse Pet Products’ “Beefy Munchies” Treats
When: 2/15/2018
Why: Salmonella contamination
Possible impact to the dog:
Salmonella can affect animals eating the products, and there is a risk to humans from handling contaminated pet products.
Dog symptoms include:
- Lethargy
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Vomiting
- Decreased appetite
- Abdominal pain
What you need to do:
Discontinue use of the product. You can return the unused portion to the place of purchase for a full refund.
Where to get more information:
Contact Smokehouse Pet Products, Inc. at 1-877-699-7387.
Select Dog Food From J.M. Smucker Company: Gravy Train, Kibbles ’n Bits, Skippy and Ol’ Roy
When: 2/15/2018
Why: Low levels of pentobarbital (a euthanasia drug)
Possible Impact to the dog:
Pentobarbital is used as a euthanasia drug. Possible symptoms of pentobarbital toxicity include:
- Ataxia (the loss of full control of bodily movements)
- Nystagmus (uncontrolled movement of the eyes)
- Panting
- Whining
What you need to do: Contact the company at 800-828-9980 or online at its website.
Where to get more information: For list of specific products go to The J.M. Smucker Company website.
ZooLogics Duck with Vegetable Meals and Chicken with Vegetable Meals
When: 2/13/2018
Why: Salmonella and/or Listeria contamination
Possible Impact to the dog:
Symptoms for Listeria include:
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Fever
- Muscle soreness
- Stiff neck
- Lack of coordination
- Skin infections
What you need to do: The company has had a pattern of contamination in its food, including this recent recall affecting a number of products. If you had this product in your home, clean your refrigerator. Clean and disinfect all bowls, utensils, food prep surfaces, pet bedding, toys, floors, and any other surfaces that the food or pet may have had contact with. To prevent other animals from being exposed, make sure to pick up your dog’s poop.
Where to get more information: Head over to the FDA for more information
Redbarn’s Bully Stick
When: 2/9/2018
Why: Salmonella contamination
Possible Impact to the dog:
Symptoms include:
- Lethargy
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Vomiting
- Decreased appetite
- Abdominal pain
What you need to do: Redbarn pulled its 7-inch, three pack bully sticks. It comes in a 2.4 ounce green plastic bag and is marked with an expiration date of 112120ABC stamped on the side. The product UPC is #7 85184 25105 8. If you have this product, return them to the place of purchase for a full refund.
Where to get more information: Contact the company via email at info@redbarninc.com or by phone at 1-800-775-3849, M-F, 8am-5pm PST.
Raw for Paws Ground Turkey Pet Food
When:2/8/2018
Why: Salmonella contamination
Possible Impact to the dog
Symptoms include:
- Lethargy
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Vomiting
- Decreased appetite
- Abdominal pain
What you need to do:vSelect Raws for Paws food has been recalled. If you have given your dog Raws for Paws, discontinue use and call company to see if your product is part of the recall.
Where to get more information: Contact Raws for Paws at 612-465-0372.