Merrick Expands Dog Treats Recall

Merrick Pet Care of Amarillo, Texas has now expanded its recall to include all lots of its 10 oz “Beef Filet Squares for Dogs” and “Texas Hold’ems” pet treats.

Both of these products have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella bacteria.

Complete details regarding this recall are available within the actual FDA News Release dated August 16, 2010.

No product-related illness has been reported to date.

However, dog food recalls involving Salmonella contamination are potentially serious matters… for both humans and pets. People who handle dry food can easily become infected with the bacteria.

According to the FDA…

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.

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.

So, take precautions… and be sure to tell everyone you know.

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

For questions, contact Merrick Customer Service at 800-664-7387 Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM CDT.

Visit our Dog Food Recalls summary page for a list of links to all the Advisor’s most recent recall reports.