The FDA is investigating the Salmonella pig ear dog treat outbreak that has sickened at least 45 people in 13 states. The pathogen is Salmonella enterica serotype I 4,[5],12:i:-. Twelve people have been hospitalized. Some bulk pig ears have been recalled, but no illnesses have been directly linked to those particular dog treats.
Pig ear treat samples collected from bulk bins in retail locations by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development tested positive for several strains of Salmonella bacteria, but not the specific strain connected to this outbreak. They found Salmonella London, Salmonella Typhimurium, Salmonella Newport, and Salmonella Infantis on the pig ears. The FDA and CDC are trying to discover if any cases of human illnesses are linked to the Salmonella strains found in the tested treats.
Salmonella bacteria can make both people and animals sick. Animals may not show symptoms, but can be carriers of the pathogen and spread the illness to humans. The FDA advises that if you choose to feed pig ears to your pets, you should follow these steps:
- Monitor your Peet while they have the treat
- Pick up the treat when they are done with it
- Keep these treats away from small children
- Clean the area and surfaces that the treat contacted
- Wash your hands well after handling the treat
- Don’t let your pet lick you, family members, or surfaces in your home.
The symptoms of a Salmonella infection inhuman include fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea that may be bloody. Animals may exhibit symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, fever, loss of appetite, and decreased activity level.
You can contact food safety attorney Fred Pritzker for help by calling 1-888-377-8900.
Once the pathogen gets established in your pet’s gastrointestinal tract, it can continually shed the pathogen and the contamination will spread. The FDA requires that all animal foods should be safe to eat and contain no harmful substances.
You can report complaints about pet food contacts to the FDA. Fill out the information required on the Safety Reporting Portal.
