IMPORTANT – New Treat Danger, Over 600 dogs Dead

We wanted to give you an update on the recent deadly treat issue.

You may have heard in the news that over 580 dogs have died and over 3,600 (so far) are ill with links to jerky treats made in China, as per federal animal health officials. They have also identified that this problem affects cats – with more than a ten deaths.

Dogs affected have been of all ages, sizes and breeds. They believe the illness occurs after eating chicken, duck and sweet potato jerky treats made in China. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) officials are trying to determine the specific brands of treats affected and the causative agent.

I received a letter from the FDA asking for my help. They want veterinarians that examine and treat a pet they believed are ill due to jerky treats – to send any detailed information including blood and urine test results.

Signs of illness can include gastrointestinal upset in 60% of the affected pets and about 30% show signs of kidney failure or urinary problems.

For more information about possible symptoms – please read:

• Acute Renal (Kidney) Failure in Dogs
• Acute Renal (Kidney) Failure in Cats
• Dietary Related Gastrointestinal Disorder in Dogs
• Dietary Related Gastrointestinal Disorder in Cats
• Signs in your pet may include vomiting, diarrhea (with or without blood), lack of appetite, increased thirst, increased urinations, lethargy, and/or weakness.
• Officials from the FDA are seeking help form pet owners and veterinarians to help figure out what and why this is happening. According to the FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine, testing for contaminants have not identified the causes for the illness.
• If you have had a recall, and you are concerned, please contact your veterinarian. I have a link to report a problem in your dog here. See link at the top will take you to FDA page where you can report a possible problem.
• Here is a list of recent recalls:
• HEALTH ALERT – Pet Product Recalls by FDA
• As daunting as it may seem, people are working very hard to isolate these issues, and resolve them quickly.
• For details on this newest recall – go to New Dog Food and Treat Recalls.
  New Dog Food and Treat Recalls.
• This is just a reminder for you to check the list frequently. I’d recommend that you review it each time you buy new pet food or treats just to be safe.