**** Update 9/11/19 ****
On September 3rd the FDA announced an expanded voluntary recall for potentially contaminated pigs ears.
The expanded recall now includes "Berkley & Jensen" brand pigs ears sold at BJ's Wholesale Club stores, the treats were sold between September 2018 through August 2019 and were distributed to stores nation wide.
The FDA has a list of all the UPC codes of the potentially contaminated treats, so you can check if your pups treats may be affected.
Nothing beats seeing your pup go crazy with excitement when you bring home new treats for him. And there’s nothing worse than those happy treats making you and/or your pup sick. Unfortunately, that’s exactly what happened with a recent batch of dog treats recalled by the CDC. Here’s what you need to know:
What Treats Were Affected by the CDC Recall?
In early July of 2019, the CDC announced a recall of Rawhide Express pig ears. Specifically, the treats pulled from the market were the 8-pack with a UPC code of 742174995163 or 742174994166 and the individually wrapped ears with a UPC code of 0385384810 or 742174P35107.
Additionally, a recall from June pulled all bulk pig ear treats supplied by Pets Supplies Plus from the market.
Since most pet parents throw away the packaging for treats, you likely won’t have access to these UPC codes. To be on the safe side, the best course of action is to throw out any pig ear treats you’ve purchased and immediately sanitize all areas the pig ears have touched.
Why Are the Treats Being Recalled?
Nearly 100 individuals across over 30 states have been diagnosed with Salmonella related illness after handling the treats. Over 20 of those individuals were hospitalized. There have been reports of dogs experiencing salmonella related illness as well.
Salmonella is a bacterium that can cause severe digestive illness, which can lead to hospitalization, and in some rare cases, death. Humans and dogs experience similar symptoms – vomiting, diarrhea, fever, lethargy, and fatigue.
Documented cases of Salmonella related illnesses have been reported in the following states: Alabama, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Wisconsin and West Virginia.
What Should You Do if You’re Affected by the Recall?
Immediately dispose of all affected treats and sanitize the areas they have come in contact with. Wash your hands thoroughly with warm soap and water. If you experience any signs of illness, see your doctor or go to the nearest hospital. If your pet experiences any symptoms, take him to his vet or a local emergency vet.
