Blog Archives

Dog Treat Recall – Buster’s Natural 6 Beef Trachea

Please read on to find out more information of this recall due to salmonella:

February 11, 2015 — Pet International of Miami, Florida is recalling 1500 units of its 6″ Beef Trachea Pet Treat because it may be contaminated with Salmonella.

Bustera Natural Beef Trachea Pet Treat Recall

What’s Being Recalled?

The potentially affected product will pertain to a particular lot number, and are specific to a particular size of the pouch it’s sold in. Anyone having these products should verify the following:

  • Buster’s Natural Pet Supply Beef Trachea Treat
  • Lot Code: 8501450
  • Size: 6″ Beef Trachea / 12 Pack Plastic Pouch
  • UPC Code: 8501450

No illnesses have been reported to date. The company is still warning consumers that if any of the above information is on the package you have, do not feed it to any animals.

It may be hazardous and should be disposed of immediately.

Where Was It Distributed?

The affected product was distributed to retail stores in the following Colorado Cities: Conifer and Lakewood.

What Caused This Recall?

The recall was as the result of a routine sampling program by the Colorado Department of Agriculture and analyzed by FDA, obtained from Buster’s Natural Pet Supply in Conifer, CO. and found to be positive for Salmonella.

The sampled product had a Buster’s label but was manufactured by Pet International.

Buster’s Natural Pet Supply recalled the entire product from the two stores that the distributor sells it. Pet International Inc. continues their investigation as to what caused the problem.

About Salmonella

Salmonella can affect animals (i.e. dogs) eating the products and there is risk to humans from handling contaminated pet products, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the products 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. Dogs with Salmonella infections may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, and vomiting.

Some pets (like dogs) 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 dog has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.

What to Do?

If you have this product, use gloves and put in a double bag and throw it away as soon as possible.

Do not touch the product in any way. However, if you do, it’s recommended to wash your hands immediately with an antibacterial soap.

Consumers who have purchased 6″ Beef Trachea with Buster’s Natural Pet Supply Label on it and are wishing to be refunded because of the recall, can take the product back to where it was purchased (with receipt).

A special form will be provided to be filled out as well. Both the form and the receipt are needed for the refund.

Consumers with any questions about the recall product may contact the company by phone at 305-591-3338 Monday through Friday 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM EST or via e-mail at sergioh@petint.com.

U.S. citizens can report complaints about FDA-regulated pet food products by calling the consumer complaint coordinator in your area.

Or go to http://www.fda.gov/petfoodcomplaints.

Canadians can report any health or safety incidents related to the use of this product by filling out the Consumer Product Incident Report Form.

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Dog Food Recall – J.J. Fuds Raw Pet Food

Please read on about this recall of the food which may contain Listeria Monocytogenes:

January 23, 2015 — J.J. Fuds of Valparaiso, Indiana is recalling a select lot of J.J. Fuds Chicken Tender Chunks Pet Food because it may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.

J J Fuds Recall Product LabelThe following product has been recalled:

  • J. J. Fuds Premium Natural Blends Chicken Tender Chunks
  • All 5 lb. bags
  • UPC #: 654592-345935
  • Lot Code Date: 5/5/14

The product can be identified by the batch code (manufactured date) and UPC code printed on the back of the individual plastic bag or on the master case label.

This product is a frozen raw poultry product (see Safe Handling Instructions on package) and has a shelf life of one year if kept frozen.

Where Was the Product Sold?

The recalled product was distributed regionally to wholesale and retail customers in the following states:

  • Indiana
  • Illinois
  • Michigan
  • Minnesota
  • Wisconsin

About Listeria

Listeria is a bacteria that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems.

Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, Listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.

Animals’ ill with Listeria will display symptoms similar to the ones listed above for humans.

People who have concerns about whether their pet has Listeria should contact their veterinarian.

JJ Fuds Dog Food Recall Case Label

What Caused the Recall?

The recall was a result of a routine sampling program by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development resulting in a positive test for Listeria monocytogenes.

The company has not received any reports of dogs experiencing nausea and diarrhea that may be associated with these specific products.

The company has received no reports of human illness as a result of these products.

J.J. Fuds, Inc. will immediately start working with distributors and retailers to properly dispose of any affected product left on freezer shelves.

The company will also be working with distributors and retailers to recall this product from pet owners to ensure the proper disposal of any affected product that has been purchased.

J.J.Fuds is issuing this action out of an abundance of caution and sincerely regrets any inconvenience to pet owners as a result of this announcement.

What to Do?

The recalled product should not be sold or fed to pets.

Pet owners who have the affected product at home should return to retailer for a refund and proper disposal.

For further information or questions regarding this recall, consumers are asked to contact the company at jjfuds.com or call 888-435-5873 Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 4 PM CT.

U.S. citizens can report complaints about FDA-regulated pet food products by calling the consumer complaint coordinator in your area.

Or go to http://www.fda.gov/petfoodcomplaints.

Canadians can report any health or safety incidents related to the use of this product by filling out the Consumer Product Incident Report Form.

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Delivered to You by Email

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Dog Treat Recall – Jump Your Bones Treats

Please read on about this recall due to salmonella:

Contact:
Consumer:
(888) 249-6755

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – December 31, 2014 – Jump Your Bones, Inc. of Boca Raton, Florida is voluntarily recalling Jump Your Bones brand name Roo Bites (Cubes) because it has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella. No pet or consumer illnesses from this product have been reported to date.

Salmonella can affect animals eating the products and there is risk to humans from handling contaminated pet products, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the products or any surfaces exposed to these products.

Healthy people infected with Salmonella should monitor themselves for 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.

The affected lots of Jump Your Bones Pet Treats were distributed to retail pet food stores nationwide and through pet food retailers/distributors.

The affected products are sold in Boutique Bags and online stores. The products affected by this recall are only identified with the following UPC codes:

63633010041 for 80g. / 2.82oz. including samples of .32 oz.

This recall is being made with the knowledge of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Consumers who have purchased the above product of Jump Your Bones, Inc. pet treats are urged to stop feeding them and return product to place of purchase for a full refund or dispose of them immediately. For further information about the recall please call (888) 249-6755 from Monday – Friday 9am – 5PM EST.

Pet Food Recall – EVO Cat Food and Ferret Food

The recall is in regards to not enough vitamins and an excess of minerals.  Please read below:

 

Contact:
Consumer:
1-855-206-8297

Media:
Jason Taylor at 513-622-1017

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – November 24, 2014 – Fremont, Nebraska – Natura Pet Products has initiated a limited, voluntary recall of certain dry cat and dry ferret food lots produced in its Fremont, Nebraska facility. Due to a formulation error, these products contain insufficient levels of vitamins and excess minerals.

Pets can become ill if they lack vitamins for prolonged periods. Early signs of vitamin deficiency may include decreased appetite, lethargy, vomiting and weight loss. If treated promptly, vitamin deficiency can be successfully reversed. The presence of excess minerals in these products poses no health concern.

There have been no reports of animal health concerns to date, but these lots do not meet our quality standards and should not be consumed by pets. No other EVO® products or lots are affected by this issue.

The affected product and lot codes are:

PRODUCT SIZE UPC EXP DATE LOT CODE
EVO® Grain Free Turkey & Chicken Formula dry cat & kitten food 15.4 LB 5148 541400 02/19/2016 4300A700D2
EVO® Grain Free Turkey & Chicken Formula dry cat & kitten food 2.2 LB 5148 541402 02/20/2016 4301A700A4
EVO® Grain Free Turkey & Chicken Formula dry cat & kitten food 2.2 LB 5148 541402 02/20/2016 4301A700B4
EVO® Grain Free Turkey & Chicken Formula dry cat & kitten food 2.2 LB 5148 541402 02/20/2016 4301A700C4
EVO® Grain Free Ferret Food 6.6 LB 5148 542101 02/19/2016 4300A700D3

The problem was discovered during the investigation of an ingredient inventory discrepancy. Only these 5 lots are affected. These lots were distributed through independent retailers in CA, GA, MI, MN, NV, PA, TX, VT and Canada, as well as online. No other Natura products are affected.

Retailers have been contacted and are instructed to immediately withdraw these lots from store shelves. Consumers who purchased the product should discontinue feeding the product immediately and discard as normal household waste. We apologize for the inconvenience caused by this incident. We are taking immediate corrective action as a result of our investigation.

For more information, consumers can reach Natura Consumer Relations at 1-855-206-8297, Monday through Friday 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM EST or visit www.evopet.com.

Pet Food Recall – Bravo Dog and Cat Food

Here is a recall for Bravo Dog and Cat food, please read on:

 

Bravo® Issues Nationwide Recall of Pet Food for Dogs and Cats

 

Contact:
Consumer:
(866) 922-9222

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – May 14, 2014 – Manchester, CT – Bravo is recalling select lots and product(s) of Bravo Pet Food because they have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.

Listeria monocytogenes is an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, Listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.

However, healthy cats and dogs rarely become sick from Listeria. Animals ill with Listeria will display symptoms similar to the ones listed above for humans. People who have concerns about whether their pet has Listeria should contact their veterinarian.

The recalled product was distributed nationwide to distributors, retail stores, internet retailers and directly to consumers. The product can be identified by the batch ID code (best used by date) printed on the side of the plastic tube or on a label on the box.

The recalled products are as follows:

1) These products are being recalled because they may have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.

PRODUCT: RAW FOOD DIET BRAVO! BEEF BLEND FOR DOGS AND CATS (Made in New Zealand)
All 2lb., 5lb., and 10lb. tubes
Product Numbers: 52-102, 52-105, 52-110
Best Used By Date: 10/10/15 or earlier

PRODUCT: RAW FOOD DIET BRAVO! BEEF BLEND FOR DOGS AND CATS (Made in New Zealand)
All 2lb., 5lb., and 10lb. tubes
Product Numbers: 52-102, 52-105, 52-110
Best Used By Date: 10/10/15 or earlier

2) These products are being recalled out of an abundance of caution because while they did not test positive for pathogens, they were manufactured in the same manufacturing facility or on the same day as products that did test positive.

PRODUCT: RAW FOOD DIET BRAVO! LAMB BLEND FOR DOGS AND CATS (Made in New Zealand)
All 2lb., 5lb., and 10lb. tubes
Product Numbers: 42-102, 42-105, 42-110
Best Used By Date: 10/10/15 or earlier

PRODUCT: RAW FOOD DIET BRAVO! LAMB BASIC FOR DOGS AND CATS (Made in New Zealand)
2lb. tubes
Product Number: 42-202
Best Used By Date: 10/10/15 or earlier

PRODUCT: RAW FOOD DIET BRAVO! BEEF & BEEF HEART FOR DOGS AND CATS (Made in New Zealand)
5lb. tubes
Product Number: 53-130
Best Used By Date: 10/10/15 or earlier

PRODUCT: RAW FOOD DIET BRAVO! 100% PURE & NATURAL PREMIUM GRASS-FED BUFFALO FOR DOGS AND CATS (Manufactured by: Bravo! Manchester, CT)
NET WT 2LBS (32 OZ) .91KG (Tubes)
Product Number: 72-222
Best Used By Date: 1/7/16

PRODUCT: BRAVO! TURKEY BALANCE FORMULA (Manufactured by: Bravo! Manchester, CT)
NET WT 2 LBS (32 OZ) .09KG, Chub (tube)
Product Number: 31-402
Best Used By Dates: 1/7/16 and 2/11/16

NET WT 5 LBS (80 OZ) 2.3KG, Chub (tube)
Product Number: 31-405
Best Used By Dates: 1/7/16 and 2/11/16

PRODUCT: RAW FOOD DIET BRAVO! LAMB BLEND FOR DOGS AND CATS (Manufactured by: Bravo! Manchester, CT)
5 LBS (80 OZ) 2.3KG, Chub (tube)
Product Number: 42-105
Best Used By Date: 2/11/16

This voluntary recall has been issued because the FDA has reported an independent lab detected the bacteria in a sample during a recent review. The company has received a limited number of reports of dogs experiencing nausea and diarrhea that may be associated with these specific products. The company has received no reports of human illness as a result of these products.

Bravo discontinued all manufacturing in New Zealand on October 10, 2013. Bravo will immediately start working with distributors and retailers to properly dispose of any affected product left on freezer shelves. The company will also be announcing the recall to pet owners to ensure they dispose of any affected product that has been purchased.

Bravo is issuing this action out of an abundance of caution and sincerely regrets any inconvenience to pet owners as a result of this announcement.

The recalled product should not be sold or fed to pets. Pet owners who have the affected product at home should dispose of this product in a safe manner (example, a securely covered trash receptacle). They can return to the store where purchased and submit the Product Recall Claim Form available on the Bravo website http://www.bravopetfoods.com for a full refund or store credit. More information on the Bravo recall can also be found at www.bravopetfoods.com, or call toll free (866) 922-9222.

FDA Finds Harmful Bacteria In Some Raw Pet Food Samples

This is a short post today.  I will link to the article.  It is an interesting read.  Take the time to read and comment on the article on the site if you wish.  Draw your own conclusions and see where you stand with this issue.

Here is the article.

Why Pet Nutrition Matters

I thought I would share an interesting article my vet sent to me:

The First Step in Preventative Care

With more than half of all dogs and cats overweight or obese, pets are increasingly at risk for a number of chronic health problems, according to the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA). An appropriate, balanced diet can make a significant difference for a pet’s overall health, reducing the risk for chronic health conditions including heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, and other types of chronic pain.

Nutrition counseling and weight management are an essential part of every veterinary wellness exam. Just like humans, dogs and cats have unique wellness needs. A one-size-fits-all approach to dietary management overlooks important aspect of nutrition counseling. Today’s veterinarian makes dietary recommendations based on a pet’s specific needs, such as weight loss, organ function, mobility restrictions, or a chronic pain condition. A veterinary nutrition evaluation will also take into account a pet’s medical history, food preferences, and current activity level.

For some health conditions, dietary management can completely resolve the problem, no medication or surgery required. For example, consider the case of Max, a dog who was overweight and suffered from disc-related back pain. Max had been on chronic pain medication, including muscle relaxers, but was still unable to be active. Dietary management helped Max safely lose weight and today he romps in the neighborhood dog park like he was never in pain. The lesson here is simple: nutrition and dietary management matters.

Dietary management should start as soon as pet owners introduce a new pet into their family. Puppies and kittens have unique nutrition requirements in order to grow into healthy adult pets. For example, large-breed puppies should be fed a large-breed puppy food; this food helps these puppies safely grow slowly over time. Rapid weight gain should be avoided as it can strain the musculoskeletal system and increase the risk for skeletal and joint problems, including hip dysplasia.

In addition to considering which pet food to use, the AAHA also reminds pet owners to keep a close eye on their pets’ treats. Treats can be a sneaky source of calories and sabotage a pet’s weight management diet. Positive praise is just as effective and calorie free.

An extra few pounds may seem insignificant to us, but those pounds can adversely affect a pet’s health. Veterinary care that proactively monitors a pet’s weight and diet is the best way to keep pets healthy and active throughout their lives.

How to Pick the Right Food for Your Pet

With an almost overwhelming number of food choices in today’s pet superstores, choosing the right food for your pet can be a challenge. Your veterinarian can help. Ask your veterinarian the following:

•    How much food should I feed my pet each day?
•    Should I feed my pet once or twice per day?
•    Does my pet need a special dietary food to address a health problem?

Don’t wait until your pet is sick or overweight to ask these questions; a proactive approach will keep your pet healthy and active for life.

Sources:

American Animal Hospital Association, “Nutrition: The First Step in Preventative Care.”

Non-Profit Provides “Food Stamps” For Pets

I am still waiting on publishing a product review as I like my little tester (Isis) to test out the stuff for about a month before I give it a thumbs up or thumbs down.  I came across this video/article that warmed my heart.

The economy has been rough lately and a lot of people may be on public assistance.  A non-profit agency has started a program for those who are on public assistance for themselves, they can now apply for “food stamps” for their pets.  The Pet Food Stamps non-profit agency has teamed up with Pet Flow to send people and pets in need, their dog or cats food.

The family that cares for the pet must apply for this program and if they are accepted, they will have the food delivered to their door.

I thought it would be good to share here because you never know who may need this program.  If you have a friend or family member that is struggling, this might be something to help them breathe and not stress as much, or it might even help someone not have to give their pet away because they can no longer handle paying for food for their pet.

Please take a look at the video and read the article, and please pass on this information to anyone you know who may need it.  I think it is a wonderful program that may save a pet’s life.

http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-18563_162-57581800/non-profit-provides-food-stamps-for-pets/

 

Dog Treats Recall – Kasel EXPANDS To Include More Products

This is an updated table of the products that are being voluntarily recalled for salmonella.  I am posting the whole article so that you may be able to see if any products you feed your dog are on it:

February 21, 2013 – The Food and Drug Administration has today announced that Kasel Associated Industries is expanding its recent recall to include other products and retail sales sources.

Caution SignKasel has already issued previous recall notices for specific products manufactured between April 20 and September 19, 2012 due to potential contamination with Salmonella bacteria.

According to the FDA…

The move comes after the Colorado Department of Agriculture tested a retail sample of a Kasel pet treat product and found it to be positive for Salmonella

In a follow-up inspection at the firm, the FDA found that all of the finished pet treat product samples and 48 out of 87 environmental samples collected tested positive for Salmonella.

More than ten different species of Salmonella were found in both the firm’s products and manufacturing facility, indicating multiple sources of contamination.

While there are no reports of human illness, FDA has received a small number of complaints of illness in dogs who were exposed to the treats.

Because of the multiple positive tests for Salmonella as well as the production practices and conditions observed at the facility during the inspection, the FDA has concluded…

“…there is a reasonable probability that pet treat products manufactured in the facility from April 20, 2012 through September 19, 2012 are contaminated with Salmonella.”

Where Were the Products Sold?

The Kasel-manufactured products are sold at various retailers including…

  • Target
  • Petco
  • Sam’s Club
  • Costco
  • Menards

Most of the products have a two-year shelf life.

All of the products were made in the U.S. This action is not related to FDA’s ongoing investigation of jerky pet treats made in China.

What’s Being Recalled?

To see a larger image, please visit the actual FDA bulletin.

Kasel Recall Product and Lot Table

What to Do?

Both people and animals can contract Salmonellosis from handling or eating contaminated products.

People handling dry pet treats should thoroughly wash their hands after having contact with the treats as well as any surfaces exposed to these products.

Consumers who have any of these products, or who are unsure of the manufacturing date of their pet treats, should dispose of them in ways that people and animals, including wild animals, cannot access them, such as placing them in a securely lidded garbage can.

You can report complaints about FDA-regulated pet food products by calling the consumer complaint coordinator in your area.

Or go to http://www.fda.gov/petfoodcomplaints.

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Overweight Cats (Or Pets In General)

Obesity doesn’t just affect us humans, our furry friends can also be affected.  This article that my vet shared with me is very useful and helpful in fighting those extra pounds that our pets may have:

Rather than provide wholesome nutrition in the form of species appropriate, meat-based food, the pet food industry continues to load our pets up with genetically modified corn and soy grown in depleted, toxic soil; massive amounts of fiber; and artificial enhancers (colorings, flavorings, texturizers, the list goes on and on!). Pet food always has been and remains a product of human food processing leftovers. Given what most people eat these days, this is NOT a good thing!

So…of course our pets are fat! They are starving to death on their “complete and balanced” food. When junk food is left out all the time, our pets will continue to eat, desperately searching for the fundamental nutrients that just aren’t there. Pet food companies know how to make foods that will keep our pets alive in some semblance of “normal” — but their normal is nothing like the optimal health our pets can have if they’re fed real, honest-to-goodness FOOD!

I was walking with a friend this afternoon, and we were talking about health in general, and how for us, exercise, sleep, and good nutrition are the three legs of the stool upon which our whole lives are built. This certainly goes for our pets, too. When will we wake up and see what has been done–to us and to our pets–by Big Agribusiness, Big Pharma, and all the rest that are out for their own gain, at our expense.

If you want to make a stand against the big-money interests and for our pets, please join us at Pet Parents Action Group, an international advocacy group that is educating people about the dangers of over-vaccination and commercial pet food. There is power in knowledge, and in numbers! Do this for your pet and for yourself!

For more information on nutrition, please browse our Nutrition Category. And definitely read our article on Vaccination before you let your veterinarian give your pet another shot!

For another view of this topic, please read this article.

Source: littlebigcat.com