FDA Links Pet Deaths to Jerky Treats

First Posted: Oct 23, 2013 01:43 PM EDT
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Health officials have linked the death of nearly 600 pets and 3,600 pet illnesses to a mysterious outbreak of jerky treats from China.

Many of the cases have come from all breeds of dogs, both ages and sizes, after ingestion of chicken, duck and sweet potato jerky treats. The federal Food and Drug Administration has reported that though the number of reported illnesses coming in has slowed at this time, officials are seeking ongoing help from both veterinarians and pet owners alike to solve this mysterious health hazard.

"To date, testing for contaminants in jerky treats has not revealed a cause for the illnesses. Despite these warnings, we have continued to receive reports of illnesses in both cats and dogs," said Martine Hartogensis, via the FDA's Center for Veterinary Medicine.

However, at this time, FDA officials are still uncertain regarding the source of the problem that led to reports of the illnesses and warnings regarding the possibility of the health issues involving kidney problems in animals who consumed the treats.

An initial report of deaths and illnesses prompted jerky treat recalls from several brands, including Waggin' Train and Canyon Creek Ranch treats made by Nestle Purina PetCare Co. and Milo's Kitchen Chicken Jerky and Chicken Grillers home-style dog treats from Del Monte Corp.

The FDA states that several jerky pet treats were removed from the market starting in January after testing found that they contained "up to six drugs," according to USA Today. Fortunately, the agency notes that it's unlikely that the drugs caused any illnesses, and the rate of illnesses dropped with the availability of fewer products.

Yet a recent update from the organization notes the following for pets and their owners, regarding jerky treats.

"If you do provide them and your pet becomes sick, stop the treats immediately, consider seeing your veterinarian, and save any remaining treats and the packaging for possible testing."

More information for consumers is in an FDA fact sheet, which states that consumers can help the investigation by reporting complaints about treats through www.safetyreporting.hhs.gov or contacting pet food companies.

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