Sadly, for one pet parent in Missouri, their dog became ill after knawing on the offending chew, called Pig Ears for Pet Treats that was contaminated with Salmonella. The product being recalled is made by the Keys Manufacturing Co. Inc. of Paris, Ill.
Salmonella can affect animals, and there is a risk to people from handling contaminated pet products. The bacteria can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, elderly people, and those with weakened immune systems. Symptoms include fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Pets with salmonellosis may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, and vomiting. Worst case scenario, your pet could die from salmonellosis.
On a side note, I can’t decide, what is more revolting: a pig ear contaminated with Salmonella or eating Key’s Flavored Pig Ears available in “low fat” mouth-watering flavors such as Vanilla, and Mint.
The FDA released this notice today:
Keys Manufacturing Company, Inc. Recalls Pig Ears for Pet Treats Because Of Possible Salmonella Health Risk
Contact: Company 217-465-4001FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – May 3, 2011 – Keys Manufacturing Company, Inc. of Paris, IL is recalling Pig Ears for Pet Treats because it has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella. Salmonella can affect animals, and there is a risk to humans from handling contaminated pet products. People handling the dry pet food and 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.
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.
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.
Pig Ears for Pet Treats was distributed via truck to distributors in the following states: Pennsylvania, Virginia, Missouri, Iowa, Ohio, Illinois, Florida, Kentucky, Michigan, Arkansas, Indiana, Louisiana, Texas, and Minnesota.
The product was distributed in 100 count cases packed in cardboard boxes shipped between Sept. 27-Oct. 6, 2010; Nov. 1-Nov. 29, 2010; and Jan. 3-Jan. 25, 2011.
One illness to a dog in Missouri has been reported to date.
The recall is a result of a reported illness by a dog in Missouri. Subsequently, the company has been working with the FDA to identify any products that might contain the bacteria and the company and the FDA is continuing the investigation to determine what caused the problem.
Consumers who have purchased Pig Ears for Pet Treats are urged to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company to find the nearest retailer at 1-217-465-4001 or by email at keysmfg@wbnorriselectric.com.
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