Petco will no longer carry dog and cat treats made in China after the end of this year, the company announced yesterday. The decision, which was prompted by continuing reports of illness associated with the products, makes Petco the first national pet specialty retailer to end sales of the problem treats.
Since 2007, at least 5,600 dogs illnesses and 1,ooo dog deaths have been reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), as of the last report issued on May 1, 2014. The chicken, duck, or sweet potato jerky treats have also sickened 24 cats, and three people.
“We know some pet parents are wary of dog and cat treats made in China, especially Chicken Jerky products, and we’ve heard their concerns,” said Jim Myers, Petco CEO. “As a leader in the industry and the trusted partner for our pet parents, we’re eager to make this transition and to expand our assortment of safe and healthy treats, the majority of which are made right here in the U.S. Very simply, we feel this decision is in the best interest of the pets we all love and, ultimately, for our business.”
Health officials are not certain what it is about the treats that causes illness in pets. After seven years, the FDA has been unable to identify a direct link between illnesses an the products. But there is some association.
“We know the FDA hasn’t yet identified a direct cause for the reported illnesses, but we decided the uncertainty of the situation outweighs the lack of actual proof. It has taken some time and careful thought to get to this point, but we’re proud to make the change and we believe our customers will be pleased with it as well.” Petco customers will still have a big selection of USA-made products as well as products from New Zealand, Australia and South America.
I applaud PETCO for this tremendous gesture and genuine effort to preserve the health of the pets we Americans hold so dear to our hearts. My ‘four-legged children’ are very precious to me, and I can honestly say, this announcement makes me PETCO’s number one fan (and customer). Thank you to the executives of this company for putting pets and their lives ahead of profit.
Amen!