I thought it would be a good idea to give everyone some information on some of the jerky treats imported fromChinathat are associated with the problem. They go by a number of names, including tender’s strips, chips, wraps, twists and more. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and American Veterinary Association (AVMA) first issued warnings about these treats in September 2007, saying that more than 70 complaints had been received, involving 95 dogs who experienced illnesses that owners suspected were linked to these treats.
The FDA issued another warning in December 2008 and again in November 2011 after reports increased. By 2012, over 1,300 complaints had been received, including reports that dogs had died. The Canadian Veterinary Medical Association also began receiving reports of illness in 2011.
MSNBC reported in March 2012 that internal FDA documents it obtained showed the brands of chicken jerky most often cited in priority 1 cases (those the FDA considers most reliable) are Waggin’ Train, Canyon Creek Ranch and Milo’s Kitchen. Other brands often named by consumers include Kingdom Pets and Smokehouse.
Recently, other dried treats imported from China became suspect as well, including duck jerky and dehydrated sweet potato treats.
All of these treats have been associated with a type of kidney failure in dogs called acquired Fanconi syndrome. Recovery can take up to six months, and some dogs have died or been left with chronic kidney disease. Affected dogs may show any or all of the following signs.
Decreased appetite
Lethargy
Vomiting and diarrhea, sometimes with blood
Increased drinking and urination
Blood tests may show increased creatinine and BUN (signs of kidney failure), low potassium, mildly increased liver enzymes, and acidosis.
Glucose and granular cast may be found in urine.
If your dog experiences any of these symptoms after eating treats imported from China, stop feeding it the treats immediately. If signs are severe or persist for more than 24 hours, take your dog to the vet for tests and treatment. Save the bag of treats in case they are needed for testing in the future. You and your vet should file a report with the FDA.
According to the FDA Web site, “To date, scientists have not been able to determine a definitive cause for the reported illnesses”
The message is that pet owners must exercise extreme caution when buying treats for their pets. It is not easy to determine where treats are made. Not all treats that say Made inUSAare sourced there.
For More Information: www.fda.gov/Animal Veterinary/SafetyHealth/ProductSafetyinformation/ucm295445.htm
Your local pet food and treat supplier will information on where their treats are sourced.