The Vital Essentials raw pet food company, owned by Carnivore Meat, is recalling its Vital Essentials Freeze-Dried Beef Nibblets Entrée for Dogs because the product has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.

The recall is being issued following the Michigan Department of Agriculture’s collection of a retail sample which tested positive for Salmonella.

The affected product was distributed nationally and through online retailers. Affected products can be identified by lot number #13753.

THE PROBLEM WITH SALMONELLA

Salmonella can affect animals eating the products, and there is a risk to humans from handling contaminated pet products, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the products 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.

WHAT CONSUMERS SHOULD DO

Consumers who have purchased Vital Essentials Freeze-Dried Beef Nibblets Entrée for Dogs in a 1 lb bag are urged to return the effected product to the place of purchase for a refund. Consumers with questions may call the company at 920-370-6542 for additional information.

Problems with the recalled product should also be reported to the FDA.