Pet Supplies Plus, a leading retailer in pet supplies plus products, has announced a voluntary recall of its bulk pig ear treats due to potential Salmonella contamination. This action is being taken following investigations by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) into contaminated pig ear pet treats and their connection to human Salmonella infections.
Understanding the Pet Supplies Plus Pig Ear Recall
The Reason for the Recall: Salmonella Contamination
The recall was initiated after testing by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development revealed the presence of Salmonella in bulk pig ear products at one Pet Supplies Plus store. Salmonella is a bacteria that can cause illness in both animals and humans. Pet Supplies Plus is proactively recalling these products to ensure the safety of pets and their owners.
Products Affected: Bulk Pig Ears
This recall specifically involves bulk pig ears sold at Pet Supplies Plus stores. These pig ears were available in open bins. Importantly, prepackaged, branded pig ears sold at Pet Supplies Plus are not included in this voluntary recall. Consumers should only be concerned if they have purchased bulk pig ears from open bins at Pet Supplies Plus locations.
Where Were the Recalled Products Sold?
The recalled bulk pig ears were distributed to Pet Supplies Plus stores across 33 states: AL, AR, CA, CO, CT, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, MA, MD, MI, MN, MO, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA, WI, and WV. Customers in these states who purchased bulk pig ears from Pet Supplies Plus should take note of this announcement.
Health Risks Associated with Salmonella
Risks to Pets
Pets, particularly dogs, that consume pig ears contaminated with Salmonella may experience symptoms such as lethargy, diarrhea (which may be bloody), fever, and vomiting. Some pets might only show milder signs like decreased appetite, fever, and abdominal pain. Even pets that appear healthy but are infected with Salmonella can still be carriers and spread the bacteria to other animals and humans. If your pet has eaten recalled pig ears and exhibits these symptoms, it is crucial to contact your veterinarian immediately.
Risks to Humans
Humans can be at risk of Salmonella infection from handling contaminated pet products, especially if they do not wash their hands thoroughly afterward or after touching surfaces that have come into contact with these products. Symptoms of Salmonella infection in humans can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea (possibly bloody), abdominal cramping, and fever. In rare cases, Salmonella can lead to more serious conditions like arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, and urinary tract issues. Individuals experiencing these symptoms after contact with recalled pig ears should seek medical attention from their healthcare provider.
What Should Pet Owners Do?
Discontinue Use and Discard
Pet Supplies Plus urges customers who have purchased bulk pig ears to immediately stop giving them to their pets. The recalled product should be discarded in a secure trash receptacle to prevent access by pets or wildlife.
Monitor Your Pet’s Health
If your pet has consumed bulk pig ears purchased from Pet Supplies Plus, monitor them closely for any signs of Salmonella infection. If you observe symptoms like those mentioned above, contact your veterinarian for advice and treatment.
Contact Pet Supplies Plus for Questions
Customers with any questions regarding this recall can contact the Pet Supplies Plus Neighbor Service team at 734-793-6564, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. EST (excluding holidays). Pet Supplies Plus is committed to the safety of pets and their owners and is taking this precautionary measure to address the potential health risk associated with the bulk pig ears.
Pet Supplies Plus is working closely with the FDA and continuing to investigate the source of the Salmonella contamination to prevent future occurrences and maintain the highest standards of safety for all pet supplies plus products they offer.
