Merrick Expands Recall of Dog Treats

Merrick Pet Care of Amarillo, Texas has expanded its voluntary recall of its “Beef Filet Squares for Dogs” to now include 83 cases of another product called “Texas Hold ’ems” due to the possibility of contamination with Salmonella bacteria.

Merrick Pet Care, Inc. of Amarillo, Texas is extending its July 2, 2010 recall of 10 oz “Beef Filet Squares for Dogs (Texas Hold ’ems)” pet treat (ITEM # 60016 LOT # 10084TL7 BEST BY MARCH 24, 2012) to also include 83 cases of “Texas Hold ’ems” (ITEM # 60016 LOT # 10127 BEST BY MAY 6, 2012) because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella. Salmonella can affect animals and there is risk to humans from handling contaminated pet products. People handling the treats can become infected with Salmonella, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the chews or any surfaces exposed to these products. Consumers should dispose of these products in a safe manner by securing them in a covered trash receptacle.

Complete details regarding this recall are available within the actual FDA News Release dated August 3, 2010.

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.

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