Merrick Pet Care of Amarillo, Texas, is voluntarily recalling some of their beef dog treat varieties because they may have elevated levels of a naturally occurring beef thyroid hormone. There has been one consumer complaint to the FDA of a dog’s health that was temporarily affected while eating Merrick Backcountry Great Plains Real Beef Jerky. The dog’s health improved and full yrecovered after its owners stopped giving it the treat. No similar reports have been received to date.
The recalled products are Castor & Pollux Good Buddy Prime Patties Real Beef Recipe in 4 ounce packages, with UPC number 780872510806 and best before dates from 5/1/2017 – 9/1/2019. Also recalled is Castor & Pollux Good Buddy Sausage Cuts Real Beef Recipe in 5 ounce packages, with UPC number 780872510745 and best before date range 5/1/2017 – 9/1/2019. Merrick Backcountry Great Plains Real Beef Jerky in 4.5 ounce packages is recalled, with UPC number 022808786160 and best before dates 5/1/2017 – 9/1/2019. In addition, Merrick Backcountry Great Plains Real Beef Sausage Cuts 5 ounce are recalled, with UPC number 022808786047 and best before dates 5/1/2017 – 9/1/2019. Finally, Merrick Backcountry Great Plains Real Steak Patties in 4 ounce packages is recalled. The UPC number on that product is 022808786078, and the best before date range is 5/1/2017 – 9/1/2019.
The production code is on the lower back of the treat bag. No other production codes, sizes, or varieties of these products are affected by this recall. The products were sold throughout the U.S. through pet specialty, grocery, and online retailers, with some distribution in Canada.
Symptoms of dogs that consume high levels of beef thyroid hormone include increased thirst and urination, weight loss, increased heart rate, and restlessness. Symptoms may resolve when consumption decreases. If a dog consumes thyroid hormones for a long period of time, they may suffer from vomiting, diarrhea, and rapid or labored breathing.
If you purchased these products, do not give them to your pet. Return them to the place of purchase, or throw them away in a sealed package so other animals can’t get at them.
