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September 30, 1999

CANADIANS ISSUE WARNING ABOUT DOG TREATS

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has warned consumers not to purchase or use certain dog treats because they may pose a threat to human health. In a September 24, 1999, release, CFIA warned consumers not to purchase Farm Meats Canada, Ltd. pig ear dog treats because they have been linked to recent cases of human illness caused by Salmonella bacteria. The dog treats are made by Farm Meats Canada, Ltd., Alberta, and were distributed across Canada.

In another release dated September 25, 1999, CFIA warned consumers that Euro-Can pig ears, pig skins, pork lungs, and beef and pork bone dog treats might contain Salmonella bacteria. These dog treats are made by Euro-Can Pet Products, Ontario, and were distributed across Canada.

The Canadian warnings advise pet owners to dispose of these products in a safe manner. People may risk bacterial infection by handling the treats directly or by contact with pets that have used the treats. Elderly people, young children, and people with weakened immune systems are particularly at risk from exposure. These people should completely avoid handling the pet treats. Anyone who may have handled the treats should wash their hands with warm water and soap.

Both Farm Meats Canada and Euro-Can are voluntarily recalling the products from the market in Canada. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) officials believe that these pet treats have been imported into the U.S. and are taking appropriate action to protect the public health.


Issued by:
FDA, Center for Veterinary Medicine,
Communications Staff, HFV-12
7519 Standish Place, Rockville, MD 20855
Telephone: (240) 276-9300 FAX: (240) 276-9115
Internet Web Site: http://www.fda.gov/cvm

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