Feline Urinary Issues

From the Life's Abundance April 2010 Newsletter:

"Peeing outside the litter box, otherwise known as feline inappropriate elimination, is one of the most frustrating and common behavioral problems some cat lovers must endure. Feline inappropriate elimination refers to the location of the deed, and it is considered inappropriate by most cat owners because peeing on the bed, the rug, the curtains, the tile, the laundry or anywhere outside of the litter box is not considered appropriate!"

In this video, Dr. Sarah talks about idiopathic interstitial cystitis, one of the most common medical causes of feline inappropriate elimination.


"Courtesy of Life's Abundance"

Voluntary Recall of Advanced Cetyl M Joint Action Formula for Dogs

Premium4Pets makes every effort to post FDA and Company product recalls for dogs and cats.


"Response Products Voluntarily Recalls Advanced Cetyl M Joint Action Formula for Dogs Because of Possible Salmonella Health Risk



Contact:

Trisha Hanson

1-877-266-9757



FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - April 12, 2010 - Response Products, Broken Bow, NE is voluntarily recalling Cetyl M for Dogs, lot numbers 1210903 and 0128010, due to a possible Salmonella contamination from the hydrolyzed vegetable protein component provided by Basic Foods of Las Vegas, NV. Tests conducted by Basic Foods to detect Salmonella produced negative results; however, Response Products has determined to recall the above-referenced lots.



People who handle 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.



Cetyl M for Dogs was distributed nation-wide through direct sales, retail stores, veterinarians and online retailers.



The above-referenced lots of Cetyl M for Dogs were distributed in either a 120-count bottle (shipped between January 8, 2010 and April 2, 2010) or a 360-count bottle (shipped between February 11, 2010 and April 2, 2010). The affected lot numbers are as follows: #1210903 and 0128010. The lot number can be found directly above the bar code on the label. These lots were sent out in the time periods as set out above. This product is in tablet-form, is approximately the size of a dime and is light brown in coloring.



To date, Response Products has received no reports of illness associated with the use of this product. Response Products recently learned that the FDA and Basic Foods of Las Vegas, NV, the producer of one of the components of the affected product’s vegetable beef flavoring, hydrolyzed vegetable protein, had detected Salmonella in Basic Food’s facility and had issued a recall on said component. The manufacturer of the vegetable beef flavoring used in Cetyl M for Dogs, tested the hydrolyzed vegetable beef protein for Salmonella and the results were negative. However, due to the concern regarding Salmonella in Basic Foods’ facility, it decided to recall two lots (only one lot affected our product) of said vegetable beef flavoring. The finished product manufacturer of Cetyl M for Dogs had tests performed on both the raw materials used to make our product and also the finished product, and all tested negative for Salmonella, however, it has issued a voluntary recall on two lots (see lot numbers listed above) of Cetyl M for Dogs.



Response Products requires that testing for Salmonella and other harmful pathogens is completed during the manufacturing process. Even though the testing performed at each level of the process showed negative results for Salmonella, in an effort to produce the highest quality product for our customers, Response Products ceased distributing the dog product in the above-referenced lots and is issuing a voluntary recall on its Cetyl M for Dogs in the affected lot numbers. In addition to the testing listed above, Response Products sent samples from said lots, as well as from lot produced after those lots, to an independent laboratory, and all samples received a negative result for Salmonella.

Response Products continues to investigate the cause of the problem and continues to be committed to producing a high-quality, effective product for dogs.


Consumers who have purchased the listed lots of Cetyl M for Dogs are urged to contact Response Products or the place of purchase for further direction. Consumers may contact Response Products at 1-877-266-9757, Monday through Friday, from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm CST."

http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm208421.htm

Cats and Lilies - A NO NO

Thanks to this post by the FDA:


"Cats are curious creatures by nature. They love to play, jump, and roam around the house, but sometimes their inquisitive personalities get the best of them. As the plastic eggs filled with candy and the baskets of colorful plastic grass leave the store and enter your home, it’s important to remember that these items can be dangerous for our feline friends.



It’s also important to remember that while lilies, a common household plant, are lovely to see and smell, they are still a safety threat for our cats. The entire lily plant (leaf, pollen, and flower) is considered to be toxic for cats. If you have lilies in your home this Easter, make sure that you’re cat doesn’t eat any part of the plants.


Symptoms of lily toxicity in cats include lethargy (decreased activity), vomiting, and loss of appetite. These symptoms worsen as the kidney damage progresses, leading to death. Early veterinary treatment is critical. If you suspect that your cat has eaten any part of a lily or its pollen, call your veterinarian immediately.

Holidays are times to celebrate with friends and family. Your feline friends want to celebrate with you. Please do your part to “cat-proof” your home in order to keep them safe this holiday season. "

http://www.fda.gov/AnimalVeterinary/ResourcesforYou/AnimalHealthLiteracy/ucm206751.htm


As a cat owner myself this information is invaluable. The more knowledge you have the better off you and your feline can be.  I know now to keep these holiday plants away from my BabyCat.

Probiotics and Your Pet

From the Life's Abundance March 2010 Newsletter, Dr. Jane (product formulator) explains probiotics in our food:

"Our exclusive formulas contain multiple types of direct fed microbials, all of which are guaranteed to be viable after cooking so they can take up “residence” in the GALT (Gut Associated Lymphoid Tissue) . To protect these beneficial bacteria, we micro-encapsulate the direct fed microbials prior to cooking our foods. This process ensures that they will survive in order to establish and maintain healthy digestive system cultures."

Click here for more information about our Lifes Abundance Dog Food

Probiotics have gained much attention in the media (you know those commercials). It is said they or "direct fed microbials" can support good health.

To read more about the health and benefits associated with "good bacteria", please read a special message from Dr. Jane Bicks by clicking below.

Pet Emergency - What to Do

Dr. Sarah's tips on pet emergencies and what to do.

Not a subject we like to think about but always a good one to be prepared.

You are scared and so is your pet.  Being prepared can keep you calmer and in turn keep your pet clamer.

This video will explain what can be an emergency and what to do about it.  Please print a copy of our 2 documents so you have them on hand.
"Courtesy of Life's Abundance"

Keep your pet’s veterinarian and emergency 24 hour facility phone number in one place and let everyone in the family know where these numbers are.


Ger precise directions to the facility and be sure to know the route before hand and keep these with the emergency contact numbers.


Keep their medical/vaccination records with the numbers as well.

If time permits, call ahead to the facility to let them know you are coming and describe what is happening.


If your pet ate something he/she shouldn’t have bring it with you.

Drive carefully
_______________________________________
Other Tips:

Keep an inventory of the basic first aid supplies

Maintain a list of basic first aid supplies:

Wound care: gauze, non stick bandages, adhesive tape

Poisoning supplies: milk of magnesia, activated charcoal, hydrogen peroxide. Always contact your veterinarian or poison control center before inducing vomiting or treating an animal for poison.

Muzzle – do not use if your pet is vomiting

Leash

Backboard or support device (table leaf, ironing board, etc.)



Dr. Sarah: “Reasons to seek immediate care for your companion animal include:”

-profuse, bloody diarrhea or continuous vomiting

-abdominal swelling, restless behavior or retching (especially in large breed dogs)

-an inability to urinate (any species)

-consumption of poison, such as rat bait or antifreeze

-trauma, such as a car accident or injuries sustained from another animal (like a deep bite wound, etc.)

-breathing problems, such as shortness of breath, extending head or neck to breathe, or wheezing

-seizures, convulsions or fainting

-eye problems, such as foreign objects in the eye, loss of vision, squinting or sudden appearance of cloudiness in the eye


Stay Calm and Don’t Panic


If you would like you can print a copy to keep on hand by clicking here for Pet Emergency Tips as well as Your Pet - Signs of Shock, Requires Immediate Vet Care

Expansion on Nature's Variety Pet Food Recall

http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm203612.htm
Click the FDA link above for full details.  We like to post all pet products recalled by companies.

From the FDA Recall News:

"Nature's Variety Expands Nationwide Voluntary Recall to Include All Raw Frozen Chicken Diets with Any "Best If Used By" Date On or Before 2/5/11


Contact:

Jeff Dezen/JDPR

864/233/3766 ext. 11

jeffd@jdpr.com



FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- Lincoln, NE, March 8, 2010 – 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. Salmonella can affect animals and there is risk to humans from handling contaminated pet products. People handling pet food can become infected with Salmonella, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the product 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 become lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, or vomiting. Some pets may experience only a decreased appetite, fever, or abdominal pain. If your pet has consumed any of the affected products and is experiencing any of these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.



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.



About Nature's Variety

Nature's Variety specializes in natural, holistic dog and cat food. The line of premium products was developed by families who have been practicing sustainable agriculture for more than 140 years, raising quality livestock and growing crops in America's heartland. Nature's Variety offers the purest forms of pet nutrition – including a wide variety of protein choices in every pet food form (raw frozen diets, dry kibble diets, canned diets, and treats). For more information about Nature's Variety, visit http://www.naturesvariety.com/. "

______________________________________________________________________________

Dog Exercise Ideas in Winter

Yes for most of us it is winter which means cold. For those of us that don’t like this weather our idea of spending outside is less than desirable. This though can spill over to our canines who don’t get to go outside and exercise like in spring and summer

From the Trilogy/HealthyPetNet Blog Update:
“For optimum mental and physical health, many veterinarians recommend that dogs receive 45 minutes to an hour of daily, consistent exercise and enrichment, broken up into shorter intervals.”

“Even if we want the best for our canine companions, winter presents challenges that make it difficult to keep up a regular exercise routine for our dogs. If you are wondering how to keep your dog active, watch this video. In it, Dr. Sarah gives tips and advice from venturing outside to transforming your indoor space into a canine activity center.”

Dogs have the same energy in the summer as they do in the winter.

So what to do with all that pent up energy? Here are some awesome tips from Dr. Sarah:

Short periods of outdoor activity is great fun (weather permitting).
Remember a dog’s temperature can drop quickly when they stop exercising.
Try to keep your dog dry to lower risk of hypothermia.
Snow can cover the smells a dog uses to navigate so it is wise to keep your canine on a leash so he or she doesn’t lose his way. No leash mean your dog can chase an animal she or he may see. Many times if there is frozen pond, it can pose a dangerous situation to your dog.
Winter means darker earlier so try a reflective collar or one that blinks.
Ice, salt and sand can lead to irritated paws so wash your baby’s paws with warm water when he or she comes inside.
Try to train your dog to wear canine boots (start off with baby socks)

If outdoor fun is not an option – try indoor fun.
Clear a space and try a racing game!
Do you have an indoor track near you that will allow dogs?
If you are living in a small space – try bubbles. Dogs love to chase bubbles. Make sure to get the pet safe version).
Another great idea is find it! Get a favorite toy or treat and put it in plain sight and tell them to find it. Once they learn the game, you can make it progressively more difficult

Please watch the video for all the details!  This video will sure you give you ideas to help your cabin fever and your dog's pent up energy
"Courtesy of Life's Abundance"

Recall: Raw Dog and Cat Food, Nature's Variety

Although our blog does not sell or endorse raw food for pets, we like to post all FDA related recalls for cat and dog food, treats and products. Please feel free forward to a friend who may feed this brand.

Nature’s Variety Issues Nationwide Voluntary Recall On Raw Frozen Chicken Diets With A "Best If Used By" Date Of 11/10/10


Company Contact: 
Jeff Dezen/JDPR
864-233-3376


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – February 11, 2010 – 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.

Lifes Abundance Weight Loss Dog Food Sample Now Available

We are happy to now offer a "try before you buy" free sample offer for our healthy weight loss formula for adult dogs! Please click below

http://www.premium4pets.net/paypal1.htm 


Of course, vet formulated with wholesome nutritious ingredients to help your best friend lose weight while maintaining optimum health.




Compared to the original Lifes Abundance Dog Food formula,
 Weight Loss Formula contains:

• 28% less fat and over 400 fewer calories per serving to help reduce and maintain a healthy weight, as well as an active and energetic lifestyle.
  
• Higher protein levels to aid metabolism and promote a lean, energetic body.
  
• More Omega fatty acids for healthier skin and shinier coats.
  
• Enhanced with L-Carnitine to support a healthy metabolism and weight management.
  

Overweight or Fat Dog, Is Mine?

If you have started your own New Year Resolution, why not include your canine(s). A buddy system seems to work better than by yourself anyway.


In America it seems obesity is a big problem. It is for dogs as well.

Dr. Sarah, HealthyPetNet: "When dogs carry too much weight they place an extra strain on all their organs, and they can be at an increased risk for diabetes, arthritis, high blood pressure and pancreatitis. Unsurprisingly, excess weight gain can interfere with a pet's quality of life and actually shorten their life span."


"Fortunately, dogs respond very well to simple weight-loss programs. By increasing your pet's exercise and reducing the amount of calories he or she eats, you can help reduce your pet’s weight and the risk of health problems associated with obesity."

Is my Dog Fat or overweight? How do I deal with it if he or she is?


In this short video, Dr. Sarah shows you how to learn if your dog is carrying too much weight, and gives advice on how to help your dog shed unwanted pounds.
"Courtesy of Life's Abundance"

FDA Health Alert for Dog Treats, Merrick Beef Filet Squares

We try to keep up to date with all FDA recalls or alerts pertaining to dog/cat food and treats:


FDA NEWS RELEASE
For Immediate Release: January 14, 2010,  Media Inquiries: Ira Allen 301-796-5349, ira.allen@fda.hhs.gov

Consumer Inquiries: 888-INFO-FDA

FDA Health Alert for Merrick Beef Filet Squares Dog Treats Packaged and Distributed by Merrick Pet Care

Products may be contaminated with Salmonella

The U. S. Food and Drug Administration is warning consumers not to use Merrick Beef Filet Squares for dogs distributed by Merrick Pet Care with a package date of “Best By 111911” because the product may be contaminated with Salmonella.

The product was distributed nationwide through retail stores and Internet sales.


Although no illnesses associated with these products have been reported, the FDA is advising consumers in possession of these products not to handle or feed them to their pets.


In December 2009, the FDA conducted routine testing of Merrick Beef Filet Squares and detected a positive finding for Salmonella. A follow-up inspection found deficiencies in the packaging and manufacturing processes.

Salmonella can affect both humans and animals. People handling dry 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 experience only 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 product or is experiencing any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately.



The affected Merrick Beef Filet Squares were packaged in a 10-ounce green, red and tan re-sealable plastic bag. The "best by" date is imprinted on the top portion of the bag, which is torn off when the bag is opened. The FDA recommends that consumers who are unable to determine the "best by" date discontinue use of the product.


Consumers can report complaints about FDA-regulated pet food and pet treat products by calling the consumer complaint coordinator in their area. Please see http://www.fda.gov/AnimalVeterinary/SafetyHealth/ReportaProblem/ucm182403.htm  for additional information.

Holiday Safety Tips for Your Pets

From the Life's Abundance December 2009 News Center:

"If you're like most people, you are currently in the middle of another incredibly busy holiday season. With the hustle and bustle of planning, traveling, baking, shopping, get-togethers with friends and family, there seems to be no end to the to-do list … or the holiday stress. Unfortunately, during all of the running around, we sometimes forget about the needs of our four-legged furry family members.

Companion animals can be overwhelmed by visitors, the smells coming from the kitchen, and the curious colors and textures of holiday decorations in the home. This can mean unique hazards for our pets. In fact, every year thousands of pets are seriously injured or sickened by dangers that could have been easily prevented. In most of these cases, pet parents are simply unaware of the risks associated with holiday food, treats and decorations. And that's why we’re so pleased to bring you the following presentation."

"Courtesy of Life's Abundance"

Product Recall - Pet Carousel, Inc

"Pet Carousel Conducts Nationwide Recall of Beef Hoof Products and Pig Ears Because of Salmonella Risk


Company Contact:  Pet Carousel, Inc  800-231-3572

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – December 9, 2009 – Sanger, CA-- Pet Carousel has initiated a recall of all Pig Ears and all varieties of Beef Hoof pet treats because the products may be contaminated with Salmonella. The problem was discovered after FDA testing found positive results for Salmonella in pig ears and beef hoof products.

These products were recalled because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella. 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.

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 following products have been recalled: The affected pig ear products were packaged under the brand names Doggie Delight, Pork Tasteez and Pet Carousel

Item No.:


18100-P Bulk

18016-P 10-pk red mesh bag

18120-P 20-pk red mesh bag.




The affected beef hooves were packaged under the brand names Choo Hooves, Dentley’s, Doggie Delight, and Pet Carousel

Item No.:



1506-K 5 lb. bulk

1507-K 10 lb. bulk

1520-K 20 lb. bulk

12125-T 10-pk vinyl bag

12110-T 10-pk, vinyl bag

12111-T 10-pk, vinyl bag

12122-T 10 lb., bulk

1503-K 3-pk, vinyl bag

1510-K 10-pk ,vinyl bag

1405-S 5 lb., bulk

1408-S 10-pk, vinyl bag

1410-S 10 lb., bulk

1420-S 20 lb., bulk

90058-H Cheese/& Bacon Stuffed Hoof, bulk

90056-H Peanut Butter Stuffed Hoof, bulk

17005-R Rope toy with Hooves.


The products were distributed nationwide in both bulk and retail packaging for sale in pet food and retail chain stores throughout the country. All sizes and all lots of these pork ears purchased on or after 08/16/2009 and all beef hoof products in all varieties purchased on or after 09/16/2009 made by Pet Carousel are included in this alert.



Pet Carousel has completed notifying its consignees and requested the consignees return affected products and remove them from retail sales. Out of an abundance of caution and concern for public safety, Pet Carousel is issuing this press release to inform consumers of potential risks and to ensure that all affected product has either been returned or otherwise removed from use.

Consumers who have purchased the products described above should cease use and return the product to their place of purchase. Additionally, consumers with questions may contact Pet Carousel at 800-231-3572 from 8:00am to 4:00pm PST."

For the complete story, please visit the FDA website below:
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm193736.htm