Update:
CBS News reports that Dog Goods USA is recalling pig ears sold under the Chef Toby Pig Ear Treats brand due to possible salmonella contamination, saying it acted after being contacted by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
This is the third recent recall on pig ear treats.
Update:
The FDA has issued a warning for all pet owners. As of July 31, 2019, the CDC reports there are 127 cases of human infection tied to exposure to pig ear treats with Salmonella.
They are recommending that people avoid purchasing or feeding any pig ear pet treats at this time. This is an ongoing investigation.
Update:
27 states are now confirmed to be involved in the salmonella outbreak caused by pig ear dog treats. Hundreds of people have become ill.
CNN reports that among infections linked to the dog treats, 93 people have been reported ill in at least 27 states, including 48 cases reported since July 3, the CDC said.
We pulled together a list of alternatives to pig ear treats for dog owners if you're looking for other ways to keep your dog busy.
The original story was posted on July 8, 2019.
Do you feed your dog pig ears as a treat? Hopefully, this news doesn't ruin your dog's summer. The FDA is investigating a suspected link between pig ear treats and human cases of salmonellosis.
The FDA released a statement that shares some scary facts.
- CDC reports that there are 45 cases of human infection with Salmonella in 13 states. Twelve people have been hospitalized.
- On July 3, Pet Supplies Plus issued an advisory to consumers that the firm is recalling bulk pig ear products supplied to all locations by several different vendors. Bulk pig ears were distributed to Pet Supplies Plus stores in AL, AR, CA, CO, CT, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, MA, MD, MI, MN, MO, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA, WI and WV.
- Salmonella can affect both human and animal health. People with symptoms of Salmonella infection should consult their healthcare providers. Consult a veterinarian if your pet has symptoms of Salmonella infection.
This is an ongoing investigation by the FDA. Of the 45 cases across at least 13 states, many cases reported exposure to pig ear treats. The FDA is making consumers aware of the issue so pet owners can choose whether to remove pig ear treats from their homes or take steps to potentially prevent Salmonella infection.
Always wash your hands when handling dog treats like pig ears.
The FDA advises monitoring your pet while they have the treat, picking up the treat when they are done, keeping treats away from small children, cleaning the areas where the treat came into contact, washing hands, and not allowing your pet lick you, your family members, or surfaces in your home.
#FDA, #CDC & State partners are investigating a suspected link between pig ear pet treats & related cases of Salmonella in humans. FDA is alerting consumers so they can choose whether to discard pig ear treats and/or take steps to prevent Salmonella: https://t.co/DaG2dukKHZ pic.twitter.com/067XIMWFje
— U.S. FDA (@US_FDA) July 3, 2019
What are the symptoms in humans and pets?
Humans: diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps.
Pets: vomiting, diarrhea (which may be bloody), fever, loss of appetite and decreased activity level.
Salmonella is a bacterium that can cause illness and death in humans and animals, especially those who are very young, very old, or have weak immune systems.
There have been so many recalls with pet food it's always better to be cautious when it comes to treats. Pig ear dog treats should likely be avoided until the coast is clear. A salmonella outbreak is no joke. 45 cases of salmonella is reason enough to pay attention to the ways mentioned in this post about how to avoid getting sick.
The FDA and centers for disease control and prevention are working together on this case to make sure we're safe and our pets are safe.
Do you feed your dog pig ear treats? Please let us know in the comments.
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