Dog Food Recall - Check Your Labels!

A Gaston dog food plant has temporarily halted production due to an outbreak of salmonella that was traced back to the plant. Diamond Pet Foods, which owns the plant, has recalled several varieties of food. Other companies which also use the plant have voluntarily made recalls as well. If you have any of the following brands in your home, please visit www.DiamondPetRecall.com and the FDA bulletin to check your lot dates:

• Chicken Soup for the Pet Lover’s Soul 
• Country Value
• Diamond
• Diamond Naturals
• Premium Edge
• Professional
• 4Health
• Taste of the Wild
• Apex (distributed only in the state of South Carolina)
• Kirkland Signature
• Kirkland Signature Nature’s Domain
• Canidae
  

• Natural Balance
• Wellpet Complete Health
• Wellness Complete Health
• Solid Gold

So far, fourteen individuals in nine states have been infected with salmonella. No animal cases have yet been reported. Pet food contamination is a serious concern for both you and your pet, as humans can become infected after handling food or treats. If you have any of these foods, please stop giving them to your pet right away.

The symptoms of salmonella poisoning in humans and animals include lethargy, stomach pain and cramping, fever, and diarrhea.  Click here for more information on salmonella poisoning in humans, and here for animals. The majority of humans and pets will be able to recover from salmonella poisoning on their own, though a few cases are serious and even fatal. Those most at risk for a more serious outcome are the elderly, infants, and those with impaired immune systems. If you or your pet has become ill after coming into contact with these products, call your doctor or vet.

For more information, a complete list of recalled products, or a product replacement or refund, you can visit www.DiamondPetRecall.com or call toll-free 1-800-442-0402, 8AM-6PM Monday-Friday.

Pet food recalls are not uncommon. It's a good idea to keep up to date on recalls, and the FDA's recalls website is a good resource.

In order to avoid salmonella infection, only buy food that is within the expiration date and in good condition (properly sealed, no dings in cans, etc). Use good hygiene and common sense when dispensing food - wash your hands, wash out the food bowls after use, and make sure the preparation area is clean. Store wet foods promptly in the fridge and keep dry foods in a dry, cool container with a lid. To avoid cross-contamination, keep your pets away from food preparation areas and out of the trash. (source)