Our question this week was:

Are Pig ears a problem? I recently heard about a recall on them and my dog loves them.

Joe M. Indianapolis, IN


Answer

Hi – thanks for your email. I recently got a press release from the FDA about this:

BJ's Wholesale Club, Inc. is recalling its 25-count packages of "Berkley & Jensen" Full-Cut Pig Ears dog treats with no lot number and only the expiration advisory "BEST IF USED BY 2009" (without referencing a specific month) because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella, an organism which can cause serious infections in dogs, and, if there is cross contamination, young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems.

Confirmatory testing is ongoing but until the testing is final, consumers should immediately stop feeding the treats to their pets.
Salmonella can potentially be transferred to people handling these dog treats, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the product or any surfaces exposed to these products. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis and arthritis. Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with this product should contact their healthcare providers.

Dogs that become ill from Salmonella generally will have a fever and diarrhea that may contain blood or mucus. Affected animals may seem more tired that usual, and may have vomiting. Some dogs do not have diarrhea, but will have decreased appetite, fever and excess salivation. If your dog has consumed the recalled product and is exhibiting these signs, please contact your veterinarian.
The potential for contamination was noted after testing revealed the potential presence of Salmonella in a 25-count package of "Berkley & Jensen" Full-Cut Pig Ears dog treats.

There have been no confirmed illnesses to date. These products have been removed from sale while the problem is being investigated.
BJ's members who purchased "Berkley & Jensen" Full-Cut Pig Ears dog treats between January 1, 2006 through March 8, 2007 should discontinue use of the product and may return the unused portion to any BJ's Wholesale Club for a full refund.

Consumers who have further questions may contact BJ's toll free Member Care line at 1-800-BJS-CLUB.

An article that might be helpful to you is on our Petplace.com is Salmonellosis in Dogs.


Best of luck!



Dr. Jon






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