Deadly Dog Treats from China: Facts

Story:

Toxic Jerky Treats from China linked to more than 1,000 Dog Deaths.

Analysis:

These messages, in several versions, warn pet owners that the Jerky Treats from China have been toxic and are linked to more than 1,000 Dog Deaths recently. It is a fact, but does not convey complete information.

Picture about Deadly Dog Treats from China — Deadly Dog Treats from China

In May 2014, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued an update on their investigation into pet illnesses and deaths in animals which ate jerky pet treats. According to the FDA, as of May 1, more than 1000 dogs have died due to the toxic treats since 2007, and there have been almost 5000 complaints of pet illnesses related to them. The symptoms reported in these diseased pets included gastrointestinal or liver disease, and kidney and urinary disease. However, FDA is still not sure of the exact cause for these reported illnesses and deaths, but pointed that most of these cases occurred after the pets ate chicken, duck or sweet potato jerky treats that are imported from China. The FDA also warned that products stamped “Made in the USA” can also contain harmful ingredients sourced from China or other countries.

In 2012, many products, including jerky treats sold under the Waggin’ Train, Milo’s Kitchen and Canyon Creek brands, were recalled after evidence of up to six drugs was found in treats made in China. Following all these concerns, FDA is asking animal guardians and veterinarians to provide them information on animals suspected of falling ill after eating tainted treats. For the information of pet owners, HumaneSociety.org maintains a list of recalled pet food and treats.

In response to these issues, Chinese authorities agreed to conduct additional screenings and follow up with the jerky treat manufacturers. Nonetheless, the U.S. national pet retailer Petco has taken a decision to stop carrying cat and dog treats from China in all its stores by the end of 2014.

In between these concerns, we advise you to be careful with what you feed your dogs and also cats. The signs to watch are decreased appetite, diarrhea, vomiting, or increased urination. More importantly, FDA cautioned pet owners that jerky treats are not necessary for a balanced diet, and encourages consulting veterinarians, both before feeding treats and if they observe any symptoms in their pets.