Expanded Merrick Recall

Hey Everyone!

I know it seems like there are an awful lot of recalls lately and I don't want our blog to be just gloom and doom, but I do feel like it's important to pass along these recalls for the safety of your pets and those of your friends and neighbors. I do want to note that we don't carry any of the recently recalled products, we just feel that as part of the pet community, it's our duty to help disseminate this information. This article was originally posted by Pet Sit USA, you can view it here


Merrick Pet Foods is extending a recent recall, due to salmonella, announced last month.

Merrick Pet Care, Inc. of Amarillo, Texas is extending its July 2, 2010 recall of 10oz “Beef Filet Squares for Dogs (Texas Hold’Ems)” pet treat (ITEM # 60016 LOT # 10084TL7 BEST BY MARCH 24, 2012) to also include 83 cases of “Texas Hold’ems” (ITEM # 60016 LOT # 10127 BEST BY MAY 6, 2012) because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella. Salmonella can affect animals and there is risk to humans from handling contaminated pet products. People handling the 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. Consumers should dispose of these products in a safe manner by securing them in a covered trash receptacle.

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 immediately.

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 immediately.

The Beef Filet Squares (Texas Hold ‘Ems) were shipped to distributors and retailers throughout the US. These individuals have been notified and have activated their recall procedures.

The treats are sold in 10oz plastic bags marked with “Lot # 10127 Best By May 6, 2012” on the top of the bag and on a sticker applied to the bottom.

No illnesses have been reported to date for either lot of product. A sample tested positive for Salmonella.

Consumers who have purchased 10 ounce packages of “Texas Hold’ems” are urged to return the unused portion to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 1-800-664-7387 M-F 8:00 – 5:00 CDT.

Merrick does have the announcement on their website: Merrick Pet Care Recalls Texas Hold’ems 10 oz. Bag (Item# 60016 Lot 10127 Best By May 6, 2010) Because of Possible Salmonella Health Risk.

Iams Feline Renal Formula Recall

P&G is recalling some prescription cat food due to possible salmonella contamination:

CINCINNATI, July 25 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — The Procter & Gamble Company (P&G) (NYSE:  PG), is voluntarily recalling two specific lots of its prescription renal dry cat food as a precautionary measure, as it has the potential to be contaminated with salmonella.
Iams Veterinary Formulas Feline Renal 5.5 lbs
Lot Code: 01384174B4
UPC Code: 0 19014 21405 1

Iams Veterinary Formulas Feline Renal 5.5 lbs
Lot Code: 01384174B2
UPC Code: 0 19014 21405 1
This product is available by prescription through veterinary clinics throughout the U.S.
For further information or a product refund call P&G toll-free at 877-894-4458 (Monday – Friday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM EST).
[...]
No illnesses have been reported.  A FDA analysis identified a positive result on the lot codes listed above.  Lot codes can be found in the lower right corner on the back of the bag.

Recalls making us sick, or are we sick of recalls?

Today a front page article in the Washington Post indicates a new study shows that the US is experiencing "Recall Fatigue"

"One recent study found that 12 percent of Americans who knew they had recalled food at home ate it anyway. After Hasbro recalled the iconic Easy Bake Oven in 2007 because about two dozen children had gotten fingers stuck in the door, the toymaker received 249 more reports of injuries over the following six months. One 5-year-old girl was so seriously burned that doctors had to partially amputate a finger."

As Gina points out over on the Pet Connection Blog, this seems like a "Dump and Run" to me. What is a "Dump and Run" you ask? Well, a "Dump and Run" recall is a recall that is issued very late on a Friday, as in Friday evening, so that the recall gets minimal press coverage. This one was even worse, because they did it before a 3 day holiday weekend. Merrick issued a recall last Friday on it's Beef Fillet Squares. The recall details are here in a previous post. There has been a lot of speculation on both sides this week. Did they know about this earlier or was this unintentional? Hard to tell.

There seems to be two contributors to this "Recall Fatigue". One is this type of corporate behavior. I'm not really making the claim the Merrick's behavior was ill repute, but enough companies have done this to warrant the question. There are plenty of good examples out there of how to execute a recall.

The second is QA. Taking shortcuts across your production line is not a very good way to minimize the amount of QA failures you have. Not cleaning your equipment between production runs - like how does salmonella reach a product that is baked and never is an original source of salmonella in the first place? It has to be either the production line or the packaging equipment that was not properly cleaned in between runs or never cleaned at all. Companies are being forced to to more amounts of QA testing these days, but they really aren't making the necessary production processes or methods to prevent test results from showing the problems. Hiding, retesting because you believe the results are false positive, and trying to minimize recall impacts by "Dump and Run" tactics are all shortcuts that do not address the problem.

Corporate responsibility has got to start to look at taking the high road, because yes, I am sick of all of the recalls myself, I am sick of sorting through them all, but that doesn't mean I don't need to read or act on them. I want them to stop happening in the first place. The "cheap way out" is no longer going to cut it as our global food economy starts to become more transparent. Hiding, misinformation and misdirection may have been the way of the past, but it will be the way of the dodo bird before too long. The longer companies engage in these tactics the faster you are planning your own funeral. There are too many choices and things are becoming too transparent to make this your corporate strategy.

Pet Food Recall: Iams canned cat food

Iams is recalling Iams ProActive Health canned Cat and Kitten Food due to low levels of thiamine

This recall is limited to only Iams canned cat food distributed in North America. No other Iams pet food is involved.

Early signs of thiamine deficiency may include loss of appetite, salivation, vomiting and weight loss. In advanced cases, signs may include ventroflexion (downward curving) of the neck, wobbly gait, falling, circling and seizures. Contact your veterinarian immediately if your cat is displaying any of these signs. If treated promptly, thiamine deficiency is typically reversible.

Consumers who have purchased canned cat food with these codes should discard it. For further information or a product refund, call P&G toll-free at 877-340-8826 (Monday – Friday, 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM EST).

The following Iams canned cat foods are included:

Product Name:
Iams ProActive Health canned Cat and Kitten Food – all varieties of 3 oz & 5.5 oz cans

Date on Bottom of Can:
09/2011 to 06/2012

If you want to read the news release on the Iams Recall click here.

Expanded Nature's Variety Recall

Nature’s Variety has expanded its voluntary recall of Chicken Formula Raw Frozen Diets for dogs and cats to include the “Best If Used By” dates of 10/29/10 and 11/9/10 because these products may be contaminated with Salmonella. (The original recall notice from February 11, 2010 can be read here.)

The recall includes the following products with a “Best If Used By” date of 10/29/10 or 11/9/10:
• UPC#7 69949 60131 9 – Chicken Formula 0.75 lb trial sized medallions
• UPC#7 69949 60130 2 – Chicken Formula 3 lb medallions
• UPC#7 69949 60120 3 – Chicken Formula 6 lb patties
• UPC#7 69949 60121 0 – Chicken Formula 2 lb single chubs

In an abundance of caution, Nature’s Variety has also chosen to expand this voluntary recall to include all Chicken Formula and Organic Chicken Formula Raw Frozen Diets for dogs and cats with any “Best If Used By” date on or before 2/5/11. Nature’s Variety has elected to clear the market of raw frozen chicken diets as it implements a state-of-the-art new food safety process called High Pressure Pasteurization for use on all Nature’s Variety Raw Frozen Diets.

The products included in the expanded recall are any Chicken Formula or Organic Chicken Formula Raw Frozen Diet with a “Best If Used By” date on or before 2/5/11, including:
• UPC#7 69949 60131 9 – Chicken Formula 0.75 lb trial sized medallions
• UPC#7 69949 60130 2 – Chicken Formula 3 lb medallions
• UPC#7 69949 60120 3 – Chicken Formula 6 lb patties
• UPC#7 69949 60121 0 – Chicken Formula 2 lb single chubs
• UPC#7 69949 50121 3 – Chicken Formula 12 lb case of chubs
• UPC#7 69949 60137 1 – Organic Chicken Formula 3 lb medallions
• UPC#7 69949 60127 2 – Organic Chicken Formula 6 lb patties

The “Best If Used By” date is located on the back of the package above the safe handling instructions. The affected product was distributed through retail stores and internet sales in the United States and Canada.
No other Raw Frozen Diets are involved in this expansion other than chicken, and no other Nature’s Variety products are involved.

Nature’s Variety now uses High Pressure Pasteurization on their Raw Frozen Diets as a unique process to kill pathogenic bacteria through high-pressure, water-based technology. Having incorporated this state-of-the-art technology on a portion of their raw product offerings in late 2009, Nature’s Variety was able to confidently implement the process universally on all Raw Frozen Diets after the 2/11/10 recall in order to enhance food safety. Nature’s Variety also utilizes a test and hold protocol to ensure that all High Pressure Pasteurized Raw Frozen Diets test negative for harmful bacteria before being released for sale.

“Nature’s Variety believes replacing all raw frozen chicken products on the market with new raw frozen chicken products that use High Pressure Pasteurization is an important and responsible step in order to reinforce consumer confidence and trust,” stated Reed Howlett, CEO of Nature’s Variety. “By recalling all raw frozen chicken products with ‘Best If Used By’ dates on or before 2/5/11, we can provide our pet parents with new raw frozen chicken products that have been processed through High Pressure Pasteurization. Adopting High Pressure Pasteurization is an important step to ensure that our products meet the strictest quality and food safety standards.”

Howlett stated, “Our commitment to consumers in the future is the same as it’s been in the past – to offer Raw Frozen Diets made from the highest quality ingredients, made in our own plant in the Midwest, by people who care deeply about pet nutrition, health, and happiness.”

If you are a consumer and have purchased one of these products, please return the unopened product to your retailer for a full refund or replacement. If your package has been opened, please dispose of the raw food in a safe manner by securing it in a covered trash receptacle. Then, bring your receipt (or the empty package in a sealed bag) to your local retailer for a full refund or replacement.

Consumers with additional questions can call the Nature’s Variety dedicated Customer Care line 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 800-374-3142. For additional resources about High Pressure Pasteurization or other Nature’s Variety food safety protocols, visit www.naturesvariety.com.

(You can read the full text of the Nature’s Variety alert here.)

Nature's Variety Recall

LINCOLN, Neb., Feb. 11 /PRNewswire/ —

Nature’s Variety has initiated a voluntary recall of their Chicken Formula Raw Frozen Diet for dogs and cats with a “Best If Used By” date of 11/10/10 because these products may be contaminated with Salmonella.  The only products affected are limited to chicken medallions, patties, and chubs with a “Best If Used By” date of 11/10/10.  No other Nature’s Variety products are affected.

The affected products are limited to the Nature’s Variety Chicken Formula Raw Frozen Diet packaged in the following forms:

• 3 lb chicken medallions (UPC# 7 69949 60130 2) with a “Best If Used By” date of 11/10/10
• 6 lb chicken patties (UPC# 7 69949 60120 3) with a “Best If Used By” date of 11/10/10
• 2 lb chicken chubs (UPC# 7 69949 60121 0) with a “Best If Used By” date of 11/10/10

The “Best If Used By” date is located on the back of the package above the safe handling instructions.  The affected product was distributed through retail stores and internet sales in the United States, and in limited distribution in Canada.

If you are a consumer and have purchased one of the affected products, please return the unopened product to your retailer for a full refund or replacement.  If your package has been opened, please dispose of the raw food in a safe manner by securing it in a covered trash receptacle.  Then, bring your receipt (or the empty package in a sealed bag) to your local retailer for a full refund or replacement.

Nature’s Variety became aware of a potential problem after receiving a consumer complaint. Subsequent testing indicated that the lot code related to the consumer complaint tested negative for Salmonella.  However, additional subsequent testing found the “Best If Used By” date of 11/10/10 to be contaminated with Salmonella.

No pet or human illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this lot code.
Reed Howlett, Nature’s Variety CEO, stated, “Because pet health and safety are our top priority, Nature’s Variety takes every step necessary to ensure the quality and safety of our products.  In addition to our industry best manufacturing practices, and in an abundance of caution, all Nature’s Variety raw frozen products now will undergo a ‘test and hold’ period before being released for sale.”

Salmonella can affect both humans and animals. Even though no illnesses have been reported, consumers should follow the Safe Handling Guidelines published on the Nature’s Variety package when disposing of the affected product.  People handling raw frozen pet foods may become infected with Salmonella, especially if they have not followed the safe handling guidelines set forth by the company.

Healthy people infected with Salmonella may experience some or all of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping, or fever. Although rare, Salmonella can result in more serious ailments including arterial infections, endocarditis (inflammation of the lining of the heart), arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, or urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with the affected product should contact their health care provider.

Pets with Salmonella infections may become lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, or vomiting. Some pets may experience only a decreased appetite, fever, or abdominal pain. Infected, but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed any of the affected products and is experiencing any of these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.

Consumers with additional questions can call our dedicated Customer Care line 24 hours a day,
7 days a week at 800-374-3142.  Or, consumers can email Nature’s Variety directly by visiting naturesvariety.com.

See Nature’s Variety for more information.

FDA Health Alert for Certain Pet Treats Made by Pet Carousel Products

The FDA made an announcement for a recall of Pet Carousel pig ears. The pig ears we carry are not affected by this recall, as they are not manufactured by Carousel. 

To: Health Commissioners, Environmental Health Directors, Nursing Directors, ODA Food Safety
Specialists, and Other Interested Parties
Subject: Recall Announcement (ODA/ODH) 2009-85a1
Date: November 6, 2009

FDA Health Alert for Certain Pet Treats Made by Pet Carousel Products may be contaminated
with Salmonella

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is issuing this health alert to warn consumers not to use Pig Ears
and Beef Hooves pet treats manufactured by Pet Carousel because the products may be contaminated
with Salmonella. The products were distributed nationwide in both bulk and retail packaging for sale in
pet food and retail chain stores. Pet Carousel is based in Sanger, Calif.

The products were manufactured under conditions that facilitate cross-contamination within batches or
lots. Although no illnesses associated with these products have been reported, the FDA is advising
consumers in possession of these products to not handle or feed them to their pets.

The affected pig ear products were packaged under the brand names Doggie Delight and Pet Carousel.
The affected beef hooves were packaged under the brand names Choo Hooves, Dentley’s, Doggie Delight,
and Pet Carousel. All sizes and all lots of these products made by Pet Carousel are included in this alert.
During September 2009, the FDA conducted routine testing of pig ears made by Pet Carousel. The test
results detected a positive reading for Salmonella. This prompted an FDA inspection of Pet Carousel’s
manufacturing facilities. During the inspection, the agency collected additional pet treat samples. Further
analysis found Salmonella present in beef hooves, pig ears and in the manufacturing environment.

Salmonella can affect both humans and animals. People handling dry pet food and/or pet treats can
become infected with Salmonella, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having
contact with the treats or any surfaces exposed to these products. Consumers should dispose of these
products in a safe manner by securing them in a covered trash receptacle.

Healthy people infected with Salmonella may experience some or all of the following symptoms: nausea,
vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. Although rare, Salmonella can
result in more serious ailments including arterial infections, endocarditis (inflammation of the lining of the
heart), arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, and urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these
signs after having contact with this product should contact their health care provider immediately.

Pets with Salmonella infections may become lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever and
vomiting. Some pets may only experience a 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 any
of the affected products or is experiencing any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian
immediately.

The FDA will continue to investigate this matter to determine the source of the Salmonella contamination
and offer updates as appropriate. Consumers can report complaints about FDA-regulated pet food and
pet treat products by calling the consumer complaint coordinator in their area. You can locate the nearest
consumer complaint coordinator at:
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/ReportaProblem/ConsumerComplaintCoordinators/default.htm

No products sold at Bigwag are manufactured by Carousel Pet Products.

Pet Food Recall - NUTRO Dry Cat Food

I know we primarily post "Dog Stuff" here, but we have a kitty too, and wanted to make sure everyone out there sees this who might be affected:

Franklin, Tennessee (May 21, 2009) — Today, Nutro Products announced a voluntary recall of select varieties of NUTRO® NATURAL CHOICE® COMPLETE CARE® Dry Cat Foods and NUTRO® MAX® Cat Dry Foods with “Best If Used By Dates” between May 12, 2010 and August 22, 2010. The cat food is being voluntarily recalled in the United States and ten additional countries. This recall is due to incorrect levels of zinc and potassium in our finished product resulting from a production error by a US-based premix supplier.

Two mineral premixes were affected. One premix contained excessive levels of zinc and under-supplemented potassium. The second premix under-supplemented potassium. Both zinc and potassium are essential nutrients for cats and are added as nutritional supplements to NUTRO® dry cat food.

This issue was identified during an audit of our documentation from the supplier. An extensive review confirmed that only these two premixes were affected. This recall does not affect any NUTRO® dog food products, wet dog or cat food, or dog and cat treats.

Affected product was distributed to retail customers in all 50 states, as well as to customers in Canada, Mexico, Japan, Korea, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, New Zealand, and Israel. We are working with all of our distributors and retail customers, in both the US and internationally, to ensure that the recalled products are not on store shelves. These products should not be sold or distributed further.

Consumers who have purchased affected product should immediately discontinue feeding the product to their cats, and switch to another product with a balanced nutritional profile. While we have received no consumer complaints related to this issue, cat owners should monitor their cat for symptoms, including a reduction in appetite or refusal of food, weight loss, vomiting or diarrhea. If your cat is experiencing health issues or is pregnant, please contact your veterinarian.

Consumers who have purchased product affected by this voluntary recall should return it to their retailer for a full refund or exchange for another NUTRO® dry cat food product. Cat owners who have more questions about the recall should call 1-8... between the hours 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM CST

You can read the entire press release here, as well as the listing of all foods affected.

Mars Petcare expands their recall

Mars Petcare expands their recall

Franklin, Tennessee (November 25, 2008) —Today, Mars Petcare US announced an
extension of a previously announced voluntary recall of dry cat and dog food
products manufactured at its Allentown, Pennsylvania facility with “Best By”
dates between August 11, 2009 – October 3, 2009. The pet food is being
voluntarily recalled because of potential contamination with Salmonella. This
voluntary recall affects product sold at BJ’s Wholesale Club, ShopRite
Supermarkets, and Wal-mart locations in Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts,
Maryland, Maine, North Carolina, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio,
Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Virginia, Vermont, and West Virginia.
Salmonella
can cause serious infections in dogs and cats, and, if there is cross
contamination caused by handling of the pet food, in people as well, especially
children, the aged, and people with compromised immune systems. Healthy people
potentially infected with Salmonella should monitor themselves for some or all
of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea,
abdominal cramping and fever. On rare occasions, 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. Animals can be carriers with no visible
symptoms and potentially infect other animals or humans. If your pet has
consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your
veterinarian.
This action is an extension of the voluntary recall issued on
October 27, 2008 of all sizes of SPECIAL KITTY® Gourmet Blend dry cat food
produced at the Allentown facility on August 11, 2008. We recently learned that
an additional sample of SPECIAL KITTY® made on September 25, 2008 at the
Allentown facility tested positive for Salmonella. There have been no reported
cases of human or pet illness caused by Salmonella associated with products
produced at this facility. Mars Petcare US is taking an additional precautionary
action to protect pets and their owners by extending the October 27, 2008
voluntary recall to include all dry pet food product produced at the facility
with “Best By” dates between August 11, 2009 and October 3, 2009.
Salmonella
can cause serious infections in dogs and cats, and, if there is cross
contamination caused by handling of the pet food, in people as well, especially
children, the aged, and people with compromised immune systems. Healthy people
potentially infected with Salmonella should monitor themselves for some or all
of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea,
abdominal cramping and fever. On rare occasions, 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. Animals can be carriers with no visible
symptoms and potentially infect other animals or humans. If your pet has
consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your
veterinarian.
This action is an extension of the voluntary recall issued on
October 27, 2008 of all sizes of SPECIAL KITTY® Gourmet Blend dry cat food
produced at the Allentown facility on August 11, 2008. We recently learned that
an additional sample of SPECIAL KITTY® made on September 25, 2008 at the
Allentown facility tested positive for Salmonella. There have been no reported
cases of human or pet illness caused by Salmonella associated with products
produced at this facility. Mars Petcare US is taking an additional precautionary
action to protect pets and their owners by extending the October 27, 2008
voluntary recall to include all dry pet food product produced at the facility
with “Best By” dates between August 11, 2009 and October 3, 2009.
The
following products are being recalled. (The UPC code is listed below the
item.)
Berkley & Jensen Bistro Blend Premium Cat Food 21.6#00000
20052
Berkley & Jensen Small Bites & Bones Dog Food 52#00000
14958
Ol’ Roy Puppy Complete Premium Dog Food 4#81131 79078
Ol’ Roy Puppy
Complete Premium Dog Food 20#81131 79080
Ol’ Roy Complete Nutrition Premium
Dog Food 4#81131 17550
Ol’ Roy Complete Nutrition Premium Dog Food 4.4#81131
69377
Ol’ Roy Complete Nutrition Premium Dog Food 8#05388 67144
Ol’ Roy
Complete Nutrition Premium Dog Food 20#81131 17549
Ol’ Roy Complete Nutrition
Premium Dog Food 22#05388 60342
Ol’ Roy Complete Nutrition Premium Dog Food
44.1#81131 17551
Ol’ Roy Complete Nutrition Premium Dog Food 50#78742
01022
Ol’ Roy High Performance Premium Dog Food 20#05388 60345
Ol’ Roy
High Performance Premium Dog Food 50#78742 05815
Ol’ Roy Meaty Chunks &
Gravy Premium Dog Food 22#81131 69630
Ol’ Roy Meaty Chunks & Gravy
Premium Dog Food 50#81131 69631
ShopRite Crunchy Bites, Bones and Healthy
Squares Dog Food 20#41190 04521
Special Kitty Original Premium Cat Food
3.5#81131 17557
Special Kitty Original Premium Cat Food 7#81131
17562
Special Kitty Original Premium Cat Food 18#81131 17559
Special Kitty
Gourmet Blend Premium Cat Food 3.5#81131 17546
Special Kitty Gourmet Blend
Premium Cat Food 7#81131 17547
Special Kitty Gourmet Blend Premium Cat Food
18#81131 17548
Special Kitty Kitten Premium Cat Food 3.5#81131
17553
Special Kitty Kitten Premium Cat Food 7#81131 17554

Read Mars' article here

Special Kitty Dry Cat Food Recall

Salmonella contamination from Mars Petcare…

FRANKLIN, Tenn. — October 27, 2008 — Mars Petcare US today announced a voluntary recall of a limited number of bags of SPECIAL KITTY® Gourmet Blend dry cat food sold at Wal-Mart locations in Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, North Carolina, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Virginia, Vermont, and West Virginia. The pet food is being voluntarily recalled following a positive test result indicating a potential contamination with Salmonella.

Pet owners with questions about the recall can call 1-877-568-4463 or visit www.petcare.mars.com.

Recalled Pet Food

Product: SPECIAL KITTY® Gourmet Blend Dry Cat Food
Best If Used By Date: AUG 11 09
Best By Date Location: Back of bag
Production Lot Code: 50 XXXX X (Found on back of bag just after “Best If Used By” date. Consumers should look for “50″ as the first two digits of the second line.)

Hartz Mountain recalls Rawhide

The FDA announced Hartz-Mountain is voluntarily recalling a small batch of chicken basted rawhide strips due to salmonella contamination.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- October 20, 2008 -- The Hartz Mountain Corporation, Secaucus, NJ is voluntarily recalling one specific lot of Hartz Chicken-Basted Rawhide Chips due to concerns that one or more bags within the lot are potentially contaminated with Salmonella. Hartz is fully cooperating with the US Food and Drug Administration in this voluntary recall.

To see the FDA post, visit here.

Solid Gold Tiny Tots Recall

Solid Gold announced a recall of their Tiny Tots treats due to mold contamination:

Tiny Tots Dog Treat Voluntary Product Withdrawl

October 13, 2008

Due to some instances of mold growth in a single batch of Tiny Tots, we have decided to voluntarily withdraw the entire production run from the market. We would like to assure our customers that there have been no reported serious health effects on dogs that have consumed Tiny Tots from this batch.

If you have a bag of Tiny Tots with a Best Before date of April 2009, please return it to your retail store for a full refund. No other batches of Tiny Tots or any of our other jerky treats are affected.

Solid Gold is committed to producing the healthiest food, treats, and supplements for your pet. As always, if you have any questions or concerns please contact us at 800-364-4863 or online at dane@solidgoldhealth.com.

If you would like to see their post on their website, visit here.

Nutro in the news

Nutro Pet food has been in the news as causing vomiting and diarrhea. There is a list of consumer complaints located here: Consumer Affairs Nutro complaints

There is an article related to the problems experienced here: http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2008/04/pet_food_recalls93.html?imw=Y

This hit close to home, as we had one customer at least already that was in our store last week looking for a safe alternative, since they were feeding Nutro to their pet, and they were having the same reaction. I don't know if there is any permanent damage done by the food, but apparently the vomiting and diarrhea stopped immediately after they quit feeding Nutro to their pet.

We currently feed "Taste Of The Wild" to our dogs. We switched them over from Solid Gold, another great dog food, mostly because they love the taste more than Solid Gold, and Taste Of The Wild is a grain free food. We only carry premium dog foods, and I can't recall any recent issues with anything we do carry, but in case there was a problem with something we sold in our store, I would highly recommend signing up for our newsletter, as we would immediately post an alert for all of our customers. We try and stay on top of everything thats going on.

One Year Anniversary of the Pet Food Recall

Hey Folks!

As we near the one year anniversary of the horrible pet food recalls from last year, I would like to take this opportunity to let people comment on any experiences they may have had, as well as give any opinions on what could be done different. Currently, absolutely nothing has changed legislatively, and all FDA recalls are voluntary with self regulation. Why has nothing changed in the last year to help protect our pets from future outbreaks like what happened?

I have read in other blogs that what happened in the US in 2007 happened before in China in 2004. Obviously these companies do not care about anything other than short term profits. The Chinese governement protects their companies from lawsuites. What safety protocols should be in place, and how do we enforce them? Are we prepared to sit by and do nothing, opening the door to similiar events in the near future?

As a consumer, you have a vote. I don't buy any food or treat made outside the United States. Apparently, these companies are not only still selling products, but are raising the prices to offset lawsuits from last year. YOU are paying for their mistakes. YOU are paying for the lawsuites against these companies. How does that make you feel?

These companies want you to sit by, idely buying their products because they spend millions of dollars to help you forget. Chime in, I want to hear from you! How has the recall affected you, and are you satisfied with what was done about it?

PRESENCE OF SALMONELLA BACTERIA IN ROLL OVER PORK TENDERS PREMIUM DOG TREAT

PRESENCE OF SALMONELLA BACTERIA IN ROLL OVER PORK TENDERS PREMIUM DOG TREAT
OTTAWA, March 13, 2008 - The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and Rollover Premium Pet Food Ltd. are warning consumers not to purchase or use the Roll Over Pork Tenders Premium Dog Treat described below. This product may be contaminated with the bacteria responsible for salmonellosis in humans.

The affected Roll Over Pork Tenders Premium Dog Treat was sold in 50 g packages bearing

UPC 0 60766 88138 1. All lots up to and including 07 MAR 10 are affected by this alert.

Roll Over Pork Tenders Premium Dog Treat was distributed nationally.

There has been one illness reported associated with this product.

People may risk bacterial infection by handling the treats directly or by contact with pets who have used the treats. Anyone who may have handled the treats should wash their hands with warm water and soap. Consumers should dispose of these treats in the trash.

Common symptoms of Salmonella infection are nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and diarrhea, although more serious consequences are possible, especially in young children, the elderly, and in people with weakened immune systems.

Rollover Premium Pet Food Ltd., High River, Alberta, is voluntarily recalling the affected product from the marketplace. The CFIA is monitoring the effectiveness of the recall.

For more information, consumers and industry can call one of the following numbers:

Rollover Premium Pet Food Ltd.
403-652-4300 or 1-800-616-9267
info@rolloverpetfood.com

CFIA at 1-800-442-2342 / TTY 1-800-465-7735 (8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern time, Monday to Friday).

For information on Salmonella, visit the Food Facts web page at http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/fssa/concen/causee.shtml.

For information on receiving recalls by e-mail, or for other food safety facts, visit our web site at www.inspection.gc.ca.

The Hartz Mountain Corporation Recalls Vitamin Care for Cats

The Hartz Mountain Corporation Recalls Vitamin Care for Cats Because of Possible Health Risk

Contact:
Mr. John Mullane
(914) 391-0943

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE — March 7, 2008 — The Hartz Mountain Corporation is voluntarily recalling a second specific lot of Hartz Vitamin Care for Cats due to concerns that bottles within the lot may have been potentially contaminated with Salmonella. Hartz is fully cooperating with the US Food and Drug Administration in this voluntary recall. Hartz recalled a specific lot code of Hartz Vitamin Care for Cats last November due to similar concerns. Both lot codes were manufactured for Hartz by UFAC (USA) Inc. in 2007, and were removed from distribution last November. However, bottles from the second lot had been shipped to customers prior to their having been removed from distribution.

Salmonella is an organism which can cause serious infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems, all of whom are at particular risk from exposure and should avoid handling these products.

Salmonella symptoms may include fever, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and nausea in both cats and humans. Anyone experiencing the symptoms of Salmonella infection should seek immediate medical attention. Owners of cats exhibiting these symptoms should also seek veterinary assistance.

The product involved is 739 bottles of Hartz Vitamin Care for Cats, lot code SZ 22771, UPC number 32700-97701. While normal testing conducted by Hartz and UFAC has not revealed the presence of Salmonella in any Hartz products, recent sampling conducted by the FDA did detect the presence of Salmonella.

Although the company has not received any reports of animals or humans becoming ill as a result of coming into contact with this product, Hartz is taking immediate steps to recover this product from consumers. Cat owners should check the lot code on their bottles, and, if the code is not visible, or if the bottle has lot code SZ 22771 or lot code SZ-16371 imprinted thereon, they should immediately discontinue use of the product and discard it in a proper manner.

Consumers can contact Hartz at 1-800-275-1414 with any questions they may have and to obtain reimbursement for purchased product.

You’ll find the release on the FDA website.