A Texas company is recalling a single lot — 248 cases — of its
Doggie Wishbone pet treats because they may be contaminated with
Salmonella.
Merrick Pet Care of Amarillo said
the problem was identified through routine sampling by the Food and Drug
Administration. The 248 cases in the recalled lot were shipped to
distributors in 10 states.
In an FDA news release late
Monday, the company did not name the states but said distributors and
retailers “have been notified and have activated their recall
procedures.”
No illnesses have been reported.
The
recalled treats — described as “all natural beef tendons” on various
websites, are marked ITEM # 29050, UPC # 2280829050, Lot 11031, with a
“Best By” date of 30 Jan 2013. No other Merrick Pet Care products or
brands are involved in the recall.
There is
risk to humans from handling contaminated pet products. People handling
the dog chews can become infected with Salmonella, especially if they
have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the or
any surfaces exposed to these products. Consumers should dispose of
these products by securing them in a covered trash receptacle.
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.
Consumers who
purchased the Doggie Wishbone with the lot code 11031 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 from 8
a.m. to 5 p.m. CST Monday through Friday.