Recent news reports have alerted pet owners and veterinarians that as of September 24, 2013, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has received approximately 3000 reports of illness, involving more than 3600 dogs, 10 cats, and including more than 580 deaths as a result of animals having consumed jerky treats. Most of the treats were made in China with strips of chicken, duck, sweet potatoes and/or dried fruit. However, because manufacturers are not required to list country of origin for each ingredient, the FDA is alerting consumers to be aware that negative side effects could develop after their pet consumes any jerky treat.

Signs and Symptoms

If consumption of a tainted treat is suspected, the FDA is urging pet owners and veterinarians to contact their state's FDA Consumer Complaint Coordinator. Common symptoms associated with this outbreak include decreased appetite, decreased activity, vomiting, diarrhea, increased thirst, and increased urination within hours of an animal eating the jerky treats. If these signs and symptoms are witnessed soon after treat consumption, the FDA urges owners to stop giving treats immediately and place the suspicious treats in a sealed bag for analysis.

Contact the Veterinary Hospital

In recent correspondence to veterinarians, the FDA has provided information as to what is required for local laboratories to properly test treats and also how to investigate a suspicious illness/death in association with the treats. Please call our hospital if you have questions.