Some of you may have already run across this news story, but the FDA peanut butter recall now affects those of us in the pet community as well. Dog treats are included among the items being recalled. Keep an eye on this page for the latest information:
http://www.fda.gov/oc/opacom/hottopics/salmonellatyph.html
A plant owned by Peanut Corporation of America (PCA) which manufactures peanut butter and peanut paste has been implicated in a Salmonella outbreak. PCA sells peanut butter and peanut paste to institutions and food manufacturers. Those manufacturers use the peanut butter or peanut paste in processed or packaged foods like crackers, cookies, cakes , ice cream, or peanut-flavored pet treats and food.
If you scroll down on the FDA page, you'll see that PetSmart Grreat Choice Dog Biscuit products are on the list. The list is being updated regularly, so if you use the Search Combined List of Recalled Products link at the top of the page it's easier to find pet-related products that are affected. If you receive donated treats at your shelter or rescue, keep an eye out for any peanut butter-flavored ones and compare the brands to the FDA list.
Because PCA doesn't sell peanut butter directly to consumers, jarred peanut butters are not affected by the recall. So if you fill kongs with peanut butter for your dogs, it shouldn't be a problem.
According to the ASPCA, most healthy dogs are relatively resistant to Salmonella bacteria, but puppies, elderly dogs, or those with compromised immune systems could get sick. Symptoms of illness include vomiting, diarrhea, fever, lethargy, and nausea (which often causes drooling or panting).
If you suspect any signs of illness, of course, you'll want to contact your vet ASAP. Here's to all the critters in rescue staying healthy and safe!
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