Yep, potential for salmonella. Again. (Or should I say still?)
FDA report here.
Merrick Pet Foods recall information here.
Treats are "Beef Fillet Squares for Dogs (Texas Hold’Ems)".
Specific information follows.
Link to photo of packaging (Thanks high unitas!) here.
Products recalled:
--ITEM # 60016 LOT # 10084TL7 BEST BY MARCH 24, 2012 "Texas Hold'ems" and
--ITEM # 60016 LOT # 10127 BEST BY MAY 6, 2012 "Texas Hold'ems"
TREATS WERE SHIPPED THROUGHOUT THE U.S.
The potential exists for both humans and animals exposed to suffer from salmonella.
Salmonella can affect animals and there is risk to humans from handling contaminated pet products. People handling the treats can become infected with Salmonella, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the chews or any surfaces exposed to these products. Consumers should dispose of these products in a safe manner by securing them in a covered trash receptacle. --Per Merrick Pet Foods
I, however, recommend keeping the treats and packaging until it is clear that any consumption or exposure has not produced the disease JUST IN CASE you need to make a claim. Put the treats in a plastic bag and put them somewhere that they cannot be reached by children or pets.
If your pet has been eating this specific treat of either lot/Best by date, stop feeding these immediately. If they are showing symptoms (see below) please take the treat AND the pet to the veterinarian immediately. Do NOT leave the treats at the vet, rather insist that the veterinarian file a complaint with the FDA on the matter.
Human and Pet Symptoms:
... Salmonella can affect animals and there is risk to humans from handling contaminated pet products. People handling the treats can become infected with Salmonella, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the chews or any surfaces exposed to these products. Consumers should dispose of these products in a safe manner by securing them in a covered trash receptacle.
Healthy people infected with Salmonella should monitor themselves for some or all of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. Rarely, Salmonella can result in more serious ailments, including arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, and urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with this product should contact their healthcare providers immediately.
Pets with Salmonella infections may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, and vomiting. Some pets will have only decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. Infected but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian immediately. --FDA Release
Return and further contact information:
Consumers who have purchased 10 ounce packages of "Texas Hold’ems" are urged to return the unused portion to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 1-800-664-7387 M-F 8:00 – 5:00 CDT. --Merrick Pet Foods
Please be well, everyone.