FDA PRESS RELEASE

http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm217999.htm 

United Pet Group Voluntarily Expands Recall of Nutritional Supplements For Dogs to Include Additional Tablet and Powdered-Form Products for Dogs and Cats Because of Possible Salmonella Health Risk

Consumers Contact:
(877) 399-5226

Media Contact:
Carey Phelps (770) 360-5292

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – July 2, 2010 – United Pet Group, Cincinnati, Ohio is voluntarily expanding its recent recall of its Pro-Pet Adult Daily Vitamin Supplement tablets for Dogs to include additional pet nutritional supplement products for dogs and cats due to possible Salmonella contamination. The list of recalled products is provided below. The Food and Drug Administration is aware of this recall.

The recalled products are sold nationally at various retailers. The products include various United Pet Group Pro-Pet and Excel branded products for dogs and cats, and certain other private label brands of the same products. All of the affected products are in tablet and powdered form. These products are being removed from retail stores and consumers should immediately stop feeding these supplements to their pets. The affected products are those with expiration dates that include and are between “01/2013″ and “06/2013.” Products with expiration dates earlier than 01/2013 or later than 06/2013 are not included in this recall. The expiration date can be found imprinted vertically on the right side of the product label.

Laboratory testing has revealed that some lots of some of these products may be contaminated with Salmonella. The company is recalling the additional products out of an abundance of caution.

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.

People who handle these products can become infected with Salmonella, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with them 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 the product should contact their healthcare providers.

Consumers who have purchased the affected products are urged to contact United Pet Group or the place of purchase for further direction. Consumers may contact United Pet Group at 1-877-399-5226, Monday through Friday, from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm EST.

TABLE OF RECALLED PRODUCTS

Label Sku	UPC	Label Description	Expiry
353	825141273447	Doctors Foster and Smith Brewers Yeast Mega-Tabs with Garlic and Essential Fatty Acids 180 Tablets	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
5619	18065056191	5619 Nature’s Miracle Pet Mess Easy Clean-up Net WT 12oz	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
1152092	800443076576	Petco Breath Tabs for Dogs Liver Flavor 50 TabletsPetco Breath Tabs for Dogs Liver Flavor 50 Tablets	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
33805	825141059485	Doctors foster and Smith Dis-Taste Small Dog Tablets 250 Tablets	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
33806	825141008629	Doctors Foster and Smith Ext Strength Dis-Taste Tablets 180 Tablets	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
33807	825141063680	Doctors Foster and Smith Ext Strength Dis-Taste Tablets 500 Tablets	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
35908	825141095629	Doctors Foster and Smith Fresh Breath Tablets for Dogs 100 Tablets	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
36763	825141291250	Doctors Foster and Smith Cran Health Support Normal Urinary Tract Health 60 Tablets	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
673110 bottle 1094181 box	800443037065	Petco Ear Powder For Dogs 1oz (28g) Box Label	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
72157	825141055043	Doctors Foster and Smith Brewers Yeast Tablets for Dogs and Cats 750 Tablets	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
9305	825141003921	Doctors Foster and Smith Ear Powder Net WT 1oz (28g)	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
9306	825141005154	Doctors Foster and Smith Ear Powder Net WT 4oz (113g)	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
J707	26851007074	Excel 3 in 1 Ear Powder Ear Care Net WT 1oz(28g)	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
J7110	26851071105	Excel Glucosamine Joint Care 120 Tasty Chew Tabs	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
J7113	26851071136	Excel Glucosamine with MSM Joint Care 120 Tasty Chew Tabs	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
J720	26851007203	Excel Deter Coprophagia Treatment Behavioral Aid 60 Tasty Chew Tabs	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
J724	26851007241	Excel Deter Coprophagia Treatment Behavioral Aid 500 Tasty Chew Tabs	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
J7311	26851073116	Excel Gas Preventative Digestive Aid Digestive Care 60 Tasty Chew Tabs	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
J7315	26851073154	Excel Calm-Quil Calming Tablets Behavior Aid 60 Tasty Chew Tabs	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
J74016	26851074014	DDS Dental Breath Mints Breath Control 40 Tablets	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
K1723	26851017233	DDS Dental Breath Tabs Breath Control 200 Tablets	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
K1775	26851017752	Pro-Pet Brewers Yeast Daily Supplement 250 Chew Tablets	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
K701	26851007012	Excel Calcium Daily Supplement 125 Tasty Chew Tabs	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
K746	26851007463	Excel Calcium Daily Supplement 500 Tasty Chew tabs	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
K776/PR	26851007760	PR Excel Brewers Yeast with Garlic Skin and Coat 150 Tasty Chew Tabs	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
K777/1	26851007777	Excel Brewers Yeast with Garlic Skin and Coat Care 600 Tasty Chew Tabs	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
K778	26851007784	Excel Brewers Yeast with Garlic Skin and Coat Care 1000 Tasty Chew Tabs	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
K785	26851007852	Excel Brewers Yeast with Garlic Skin and Coat Care Mega Tabs 216 Tasty Chew Tabs	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
N1701	26851017011	Pro-Pet Senior Daily Vitamin Supplement 100 Tasty Tablets	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
N700TR	26851007005	Excel Pupply Multi Vitamin 100 Tasty Chew Tabs Time Release	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
N7301	26851073017	Excel Small Breed Multi Vitamin 45 Tasty Chew Tabs	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
N7309	26851073093	Excel Lutein Vision Maintenance Eye Care 60 Tasty Chew Tabs	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
N845TR	26851008453	Excel Adult Multi Vitamin 60 Tasty Chew Tabs	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
P-78030	26851780304	Excel Advantage Adult Multi Vitamin 60 Tasty Chew Tabs	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
P-78031	26851780311	Excel Advantage Puppy Multi Vitamin 60 Tasty Chew Tabs	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
P-78032	26851780328	Excel Advantage Senior Multi Vitamin 60 Tasty Chew Tabs	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
P-78033	26851780335	Excel Advantage Skin and Coat Essentials 60 Tasty Chew Tabs	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
P-78034	26851780342	Excel Advantage Glucosamine Plus 60 Tasty Chew Tabs	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
P-78035	26851780359	Excel Advantage Glucosamine Advanced Strength 60 Tasty Chew Tabs	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
P-78065	26851780656	Excel Adult Multivitamin 120 Tasty Chew Tabs	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
P-78066	26851780663	Excel Senior Multi Vitamin 120 Tasty Chew Tabs	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
P-82530	26851825302	Pro-Pet Glucosamine Joint Care 60 Chew Tablets	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
P-82531	26851825319	Pro-Pet Stool-Eating Preventative(Corprophagia Treatment) 60 Tasty Chew Tabs	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
P-82534	26851825340	Pro-Pet Anti-Stress Calming Tabs 60 Chew Tablets	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
P-82562	26851825623	Pro-Pet Glucosamine Plus Joint Care 100 Chew Tablets	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
P-82618	26851826187	Pro-Pet Breath Tabs 40 Tablets	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
P-82619	26851826194	Pro-Pet Breath Mints 200 Tablets	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
P-82654	26851826545	Pro-Pet Gas Relief Digestive Aid 40 Chew Tablets	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
P-82656	26851826569	Pro-Pet Glucosamine Advanced Joint Powder Net WT 10oz(283g)	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
P-82658	26851826583	Pro-Pet Daily Vitamin Supplement Powder Net WT 10oz (283g)	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
P-83062	26851830627	Pro-Pet Puppy and Small Breed Daily Vitamin Supplement 100 Chew Tablets	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
P-83065	26851830658	Pro-Pet Glucosamine Advanced Joint Care 60 Chew Tablets	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
P-N78012	26851780120	Excel Joint Ensure Moderate Care 60 Tasty Chew Tabs	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
P-N78013	26851780137	Excel Joint Ensure Advanced Care 60 Tasty Chew Tabs	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
P-N78014	26851780144	Excel Flare-Away Joint Tabs 60 Tasty Chew Tabs	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13

http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm217999.htm

FDA PRESS RELEASE

http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm217826.htm  

  

Feline’s Pride Issues Nationwide Recall of its Natural Chicken Formula Cat Food Due to Salmonella Contamination

 

Contact:
Shelby Gomas, 
Tel: 1-716-580-3096

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - July 1, 2010 - Buffalo, NY – Feline’s Pride is announcing a voluntary recall of Feline’s Pride Raw food with ground bone for cats and kittens, Natural Chicken Formula, Net Wt. 2.5 lbs. (1.13 kg., 40 oz.) produced on 6/10/10, because it may be contaminated with Salmonella. People handling raw pet food can become infected with Salmonella, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the raw pet food or any surfaces exposed to the product.

When consumed by humans, Salmonella can cause an infection, salmonellosis. The symptoms of salmonellosis include nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, minimal diarrhea, fever, and headache. Certain vulnerable populations, such as children, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems, are particularly susceptible to acquiring salmonellosis from such pet food products and may experience more severe symptoms. 

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. 

The product is packaged in uncoded plastic containers and sold frozen to private consumers nationwide. Once thawed, the pet food has a shelf life of about 1 week. The firm manufactures the pet food by an as-ordered basis. This recall affects only those orders placed and shipped from June 10 through June 17, 2010. 

The firm and FDA are investigating this matter to determine the source of this problem, and will take any additional steps necessary to protect the public health. 

To date, both the firm and the FDA have received no reports of Salmonella infection relating to this product. 

This product should not be fed to pets but should instead be disposed of in a safe manner (e.g., in a securely covered trash receptacle). People who are experiencing the symptoms of Salmonella infection after having handled the pet food product should seek medical attention, and report their use of the product and illness to the nearest FDA office. 

People should thoroughly wash their hands after handling the pet food – especially those made from raw animal protein such as meat or fish — to help prevent infection. People may risk bacterial infection not only by handling pet foods, but by contact with pets or surfaces exposed to these foods, so it is important that they thoroughly wash their hands with hot water and soap. 

Since certain vulnerable populations, such as children, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems, are particularly at risk from exposure they should avoid handling this product. 

Consumers with questions should contact the company at (716) 580-3096, Monday –Friday from 10 am - 4 pm EDT. 

DO NOT LEAVE THEM IN THE CAR!!!!

It’s amazing we still need to keep telling people to not leave their pets and children in a hot car. Yet, after yesterdays visit to the drug store, it’s obvious we still do. I pulled in to the parking space and got out and in the next car is a Jack (Parson’s)Russell Terrier sitting in the front seat of a car with the windows cracked about ½ inch.  The dog was panting away and agitated. The car was facing into the sun and you could see the heat radiating off the car. So I asked the cashier in the drug store to make an announcement. No Go. His boss would not let him, “the disruption of customers is against store policy.”  With that information I found the shoppers on my own and had to request that one of them return to the vehicle and attend to the pup and remain with air conditioning running. They did so with great consternation and disbelief in my concern.  Every year we hear about children and pets suffering from and dying of heat stroke from being left in cars. Every year it’s in the news, and yet every year it keeps happening. 

Canines and felines do not expel heat efficiently in hot environments. Their main mode of heat transfer is panting and they can transfer some heat from their foot pads, nose, and ears, but they do not sweat or have the large surface area like our exposed sweating skin, to transfer heat. If the interior temperature of the vehicle is close to that of their body temperature (99 Fahrenheit -102.5 Fahrenheit) then they will not be able to cool off and can suffer from heat stroke very quickly. 

The second issue is the physics of heat collection in the car. The infrared radiation (IR) that passes through the glass into the car is trapped and far greater than the IR energy escaping the car. The car continues to heat up. Even if it’s relatively comfortable outside let’s say 75 Fahrenheit, and the windows are cracked open, on a clear day, the car can heat up to 100 degrees (F) in less than 15 minutes and can cause heat stroke and death in pets! Short faced breads like Bull Dogs, Boston Terriers, Pugs, etc, are at a greater risk of heat stroke. 

SO, what to do:

1.DO NOT LEAVE THEM IN THE CAR!

2. Leave them at home in cool environment and with plenty of water.

3. Go through the drive-thru if available.

4. If you have to take a pet with you, have someone go with you and stay in     the car with the air conditioning running.

5. Go before or shortly after sun rise or after sunset. 

If you come across a pet or child left alone in a vehicle on a warm, sunny day, tell the store manager to make announcement, quickly find the owner and non-confrontationally explain that their pet is in danger of heat stroke. If you are not able to find the owner or the owner does not respond to the situation then, you may have to call the police in order to save a life! 

If your companion animal is suffering from heat stroke:

1. Get them out of the vehicle or location and into the shade.

2. Water them down with a hose or bottled water.  Get their ears, chest, arm     pits, belly, and groin wet. It should not be ice cold as this can lead to     shock and can over cool them. Water soaked towels work as well.

3. Keep their mouth wet (with a little water if conscious), and their nose     and mouth clear.

4. Get them to the veterinary hospital as soon as possible for further     treatment and assessment. It is important to have them seen     immediately even if they seem back to normal.  

Please, Please, Please, tell everyone you know with companion animals to never leave them in a warm car unattended! 

Best wishes; 

Eric R. Hurwit DVM

Less Stress For Your Pet At Home Veterinary Medical Services LLC

www.LessStressForYourPet.com

www.GalacticPet.Com

 FDA Press Release

http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm216298.htm

Contact:
Customer Service (800) 829-4493 
Media Contact: Daniel Bernstein (310) 902-2554

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE — June 18, 2010 - Natural Balance Pet Foods, Inc., of announces a voluntary recall of Natural Balance Sweet Potato & Chicken Dry Dog Food with the “Best By” date of June 17, 2011, in 5-lb. and 28-lb. bags because it has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.

No illnesses have been reported to date. The recall notification is being issued out of an abundance of caution based on an isolated instance in which a product sample with a “Best By” date of June 17, 2011, had a positive result for Salmonella in a random sample test conducted by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. This product was originally manufactured on December 17, 2009, and is the only Natural Balance product being recalled.

Salmonella can affect animals and there is a risk to humans from handling contaminated pet products. People handling dry pet food can become infected with Salmonella, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with surfaces exposed to this product. This product was manufactured on December 17, 2009.

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.

Recalled products were only distributed in pet specialty stores in the states of Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Washington, Wisconsin and Wyoming.

The only product affected by the recall is the Sweet Potato & Chicken Dry Dog Food with the “Best By” date of June 17, 2011, product information as follows:

Product	Bag Size	Bag UPC Code	Bale UPC Code	Best By Dates
Sweet Potato & Chicken Dry Dog Formula	5 lb	7-23633-9000-4	7-23633-99003-5	June 17, 2011
Sweet Potato & Chicken Dry Dog Formula	28 lb	7-23633-99002-8		June 17, 2011

Consumers who have purchased Natural Balance Sweet Potato & Chicken Dry Dog formula with the “Best By” date of June 17, 2011, are urged to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. A separate letter and instructions will be forwarded to all relevant Natural Balance customers. For additional information, please contact Natural Balance Pet Foods Customer Service at (800) 829-4493 (8am – 5pm, PDT) or by visiting www.naturalbalanceinc.com¹.

Please go to the FDA link for recalled peanut butter containing pet products .

http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/peanutbutterrecall/index.cfm#PetFood

YOUR PET’S SAFETY (PART ONE) - FOOD ITEMS THAT POSE A DANGER TO YOUR PET

>By Eric R. Hurwit, D.V.M. It’s hard to resist. They’re sitting there salivating, looking up at you while you have your dinner. Or maybe they’re watching you throw away the leftovers or table scraps. There’s no harm in sharing, right? WRONG! Don’t give in. Many of the foods we are able to digest and metabolize can be dangerous to your pet; and although we often associate food with affection, there’s no love in making your pet sick.
While many foods like cooked lean boneless chicken or turkey, rice and potatoes in the correct proportion, are fine for your pet - the following items should be avoided entirely.

THE SKINNY ON FATTY FOODS

Fatty foods pose a particular problem to pets since guardians often share their food with their pets, or their pet sneaks it out of the garbage or away from children. Fatty foods such as pan drippings, poultry skin with fat, roast beef or animal greases can make your pet quite ill. Your pet may like the taste of such foods, but their digestive systems are not equipped to deal with large quantities of fats. These fats are not the same as the Omega-3 fatty acids found in salmon oil and flax seed oils that are used in supplements.
Signs of gastrointestinal upset due to fatty foods include:

• Not wanting to eat (anorexia)
• Depression, lethargy, agitation
• A painful abdomen Distressed vocalizations or excessive panting
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea

In more serious cases, the pancreas can become inflamed (pancreatitis) and cause its digestive enzymes to not only begin to digest the pancreas, but to leach out into the abdomen and cause widespread damage. Pancreatitis can be a life-threatening condition and requires immediate medical attention by your veterinarian.

IF IT’S FURRY AND LOOKING AT YOU, IT’S NOT YOUR GARBAGE CAN!

Spoiled food can lead to food poisoning in pets just as it can in humans. Bacteria and molds can cause severe gastrointestinal upset, pancreatitis as well as neurologic signs (unsteady stance or walking, tremors, seizures). Vomiting and diarrhea are common signs of food poisoning. Your pet should be seen immediately by your veterinarian if it shows signs of food poisoning.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              NO “TAR TAR” FOR TOTO

Raw meats can contain parasites and high bacterial levels which can lead to infections. If meats are part of your pet’s diet, they should be lean and fully cooked.

                                                                                                 

KEEP IT CLEAN

Always wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly for your small pets, such as rodents and rabbits. This will reduce potentially harmful bacteria populations and residual insecticide and pesticide contamination.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           THEY HAVE ALL THE BONES THEY NEED

Animal bones may also be a danger to your pet as they can splinter, forming shards that can lacerate and / or puncture through sections of the digestive tract. They can also form obstructions if larger pieces of bone are swallowed. This often requires surgical removal of the foreign material. In addition, raw, undercooked or store-bought bones can often contain high bacterial counts which can cause diarrhea and vomiting.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            A MUDSLIDE MEDICAL EMERGENCY

Chocolate contains a chemical known as theobromine which can cause excessive stimulation of the brain and heart, leading to tremors, seizures, elevated heart rate (tachycardia), diarrhea, urinary accidents and vomiting. These effects can be life threatening and require specific medical management by a veterinarian. The amount of chocolate that will cause toxic effects depends on the theobromine content of the chocolate and the amount consumed by your pet. The highest concentrations of theobromine are found in baking chocolate and pure cacao powders, and decreases from dark chocolate to milk chocolate. Cacao bean mulch used in landscaping can also be a potential source of toxicity. While a single M&M would not likely cause notable toxic effects in most dogs, even a small amount of dark chocolate could cause toxic effects to a small dog. The most common causes of chocolate exposure for dogs are from family members, especially children, feeding candies or desserts to the dog, or from the dog taking it from a table or from the garbage. If you suspect or know your pet has gotten into chocolate, call your veterinarian immediately for advice.

Peterson, Michael E. , Talcott, Patricia A. SMALL ANIMAL TOXICOLOGY, Saunders 2001 p 563-569

NO ESPRESSO FOR FIDO

Coffee and coffee grounds contain the stimulant caffeine which, like chocolate, causes excessive stimulation of the nervous system and heart. Pets begin acting restless about an hour after exposure. They may show signs similar to chocolate toxicity including tremors, seizures, elevated heart rate (tachycardia), diarrhea, urinary accidents and vomiting. Caffeine toxicity can be life threatening. Again, a veterinarian should be contacted immediately if your pet has ingested coffee or grounds.

Peterson, Michael E. , Talcott, Patricia A. SMALL ANIMAL TOXICOLOGY, Saunders 2001 p 563-569

SUGAR: THERE’S NO SUBSTITUTE

Xylitol is a sugar substitute found in sugar-free products such as gum, toothpaste, children’s vitamins and baked goods. In dogs, xylitol can cause blood sugar to drop to dangerously low levels (hypoglycemia). It may lead to acute liver failure with or without the signs of hypoglycemia. Signs of exposure in dogs include weakness, shaking, and / or seizures due to hypoglycemia. These may occur within an hour of the time of ingestion. Signs including lethargy and vomiting may be seen within a day due to acute liver failure. If you suspect or know your dog has ingested products containing xylitol, see your veterinarian right away, as prompt medical treatment is critical. This is a potentially fatal toxicity, so take precautions including reading ingredient labels for products containing xylitol and keeping these products out of reach of your dog.

1.Dunayer EK, Gwaltney-Brant SM. Acute hepatic failure and coagulopathy associated with xylitol ingestion in eight dogs. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2006; 229; 1113-1117
2. Dunayer EK. New findings on the effects of xylitol ingestion in dogs.Vet Med 2006, Dec; 791-796

A NUTTY TOXICITY

Macadamia nuts found in candies, cookies and as roasted nuts can cause weakness, particularly in the hind limbs of dogs. Tremors, unstable stance or difficulty walking (ataxia), vomiting and depression have also been seen in macadamia nut toxicity. The exact principle or mechanism is not yet fully understood, but in most cases pets return to normal within a few days.

1. Steven R. Hansen, DVM, MS, DABVT, Macadamia nut toxicosis in dogs “Toxicology Brief”, ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, Copyright 2002, Veterinary Medicine Publishing Group 1717 S. Philo Road, Suite 36, Urbana, IL 61802
2. Hansen, S.R. et al.: Weakness, tremors, and depression associated with macadamia nuts in dogs. Vet. Hum. Toxicol. 42 (1):18-21; 2000.

THEY MAY BE SWEET, BUT THEY’RE NOT DOG TREATS

Grapes and raisins can lead to life-threatening kidney failure in some dogs and possibly in cats. Not all dogs develop acute kidney failure after exposure, but it is not a test you want to perform. So, the best solution at this time is not to allow your pet to ingest grapes or raisins. The exact mechanism of toxicity is not understood, but acute renal failure (kidney) is common with even relatively small quantities of ingested grapes or raisins. Vomiting may be one of the first signs noted within a few hours of exposure. Other signs including depression or lethargy, diarrhea, increased drinking (Polydipsia), and abdominal pain may develop within several hours to days. As with all toxicities, the sooner a veterinarian can begin decontamination and supportive treatment, the better the prognosis for your pet. A wait-and-see approach may lead to life-threatening kidney failure and a grave prognosis for your pet.

1. Katrina McKnight, BS, CVT Grape and Raisin Toxicity In Dogs Veterinary Technician February 2005 Toxicology Brief 135 ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Urbana, Illinois
2. Means C: Health, The wrath of grapes. ASPCA Animal Watch. Available at http://www.aspca.org/site/DocServer/grapes.pdf?docID=189; updated 2002.
3. Mazzaferro EM: Case report: Acute renal failure associated with raisin or grape ingestion in 4 dogs. J Vet Emerg Crit Care 14(3):203–212, 2004.
4. Gwaltney-Brant S, Holding JK, Donaldson CW, et al: Renal failure associated with ingestion of grapes or raisins in dogs. JAVMA 218:1555–1556, 2001.

BAD FOR YOUR BREATH AND YOUR PET

Onions (Allium) and related plants including garlic, scallions, shallots, and leeks contain compounds that damage red blood cells which leads to their destruction by the body (hemolysis). Red blood cells are the oxygen-carrying cells in blood. This onion-related loss of red blood cells is known as Heinz Body Anemia and can be severe enough to be life threatening. Like many toxicities, onion toxicity is dose dependent, i.e. the more that is ingested, the more severe the toxic effect. It doesn’t matter if they are raw, cooked, or in powdered seasonings.

Typical effects of onion toxicity include:

• Decreased or lack of appetite (anorexia)
• Depression
• Weakness
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Pale or yellow (icterus) gums, lips, whites of the eyes, or inside of ear
• Increased breathing rate or respiration.

If promptly and properly treated, many cats and dogs will make a good recovery. But again, prompt medical attention is important.

Peterson, Michael E. , Talcott, Patricia A. SMALL ANIMAL TOXICOLOGY, Saunders 2001 p 248, p280 Denise M. Simmons, TOXICOLOGY BRIEF Onion Breath 424 Veterinary Technician August 2001

HOLD THE GUACAMOLE

Avocados (Persea americana) contain a compound known as Persin which can cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs and cats, and potentially fatal respiratory and heart toxicity in birds and rodents. All parts of the plant contain the toxic compound Persin in various amounts, and pets should be protected from ingestion of any part of the plant.

Peterson, Michael E. , Talcott, Patricia A. SMALL ANIMAL TOXICOLOGY, Saunders 2001 p 305

If you know or suspect your pet has ingested a harmful or toxic substance of any kind, or if your pet is showing signs of illness, talk to a veterinarian immediately. Don’t waste precious time waiting to see if your pet recovers. Some toxicities may appear to improve but may worsen later, and lead to serious complications. Contact your veterinarian as soon as you know or suspect a problem to give your pet a better chance for recovery. Your veterinarian will be able to determine whether or not your pet needs to be seen immediately, or if home treatment or monitoring is appropriate. You may be asked by your veterinarian to contact animal poison control to secure an initial case number. The contact numbers are listed below. Please make sure your veterinarian specifies which service to call. And remember: prevention is the key!

ASPCA NATIONAL ANIMAL POISON CONTROL CENTER 1-888-426-4435
This is a national 24-hour service provided by the ASPCA. There is a $50.00 fee for the initial call.

PET POISON HELPLINE 1-800-213-6680
This is a national 24-hour service provided by the Pet Poison Control Center. There is a $35.00 fee for the initial call.

© Eric R. Hurwit, www.GalacticPet.Com

By Eric R. Hurwit DVM

Following is the first of an multi-part series on finding the perfect veterinarian. In this article, we’ll focus on the need to have an accessible veterinarian for emergency situations

Why the search?

Maybe you have moved to a new town, or have gotten your first pet — or maybe you were unhappy with your last veterinarian and are trying to find a new one. Whatever the reason for your search, having the right veterinarian is critically important for the health of your new family member. It is an investment in a source of veterinary medical information and guidance for yourself and family.

This search is a task requiring diligence and patience, and depending on your location, you may have quite a selection of veterinary clinicians, clinics, and hospitals to choose from. If you take your time investigating and asking the right questions, you are likely to find the right match for you and your furry family member. Remember, you have options as a consumer and can always take your business elsewhere if you’re displeased with your current veterinary care.

While there is no way to be one hundred percent certain of your choice of veterinarian, and no one veterinarian, clinic, or hospital is going to be perfect in every way, it’s possible to find a truly competent veterinarian and facility that meets your standards and matches your personality.

The “Golden Hour”

Imagine this scenario: You have come home after work, or you’re outside working on the yard on a Saturday afternoon and you come inside to find your companion (the furry one) collapsed, or unresponsive, or suffering from a major physical trauma. You’re in a panic, confused and scrambling for the phone book to call a veterinarian. In a true emergency you may have what is called the “Golden Hour,” though usually far less, to get your pet immediate medical attention.

This scenario is one of the most unfortunate and critical situations. Unless your current veterinarian is the closest one to you and is open twenty four hours a day, you should do some research before you face an emergency:

• First, locate the veterinary clinic or hospital that is the closest and or has the shortest driving time. They do not have to become your regular veterinarian. You’re just looking for who can provide the necessary care in the shortest time.
• Once you have found one or more locations, call them to ask if they provide emergency care and/or if they are equipped to stabilize a patient in the event of an emergency.
• Know their hours of service.
• Become familiar with the driving route by either driving to the hospital and or mapping out the route.
• Consider setting up an account ahead of time to save time in the event of an emergency. This is a particularly good idea if your pet is being treated for a current medical condition.

If your closest veterinarian does not provide twenty-four hour service, you should also know the phone number, location, and driving route to the closest twenty-four hour or overnight veterinary emergency hospital. Once your pet has been stabilized, you can always transport them to your regular veterinarian. Note that some overnight emergency hospitals are only open overnight and do not provide services during the day. They will require that your pet is picked up for transfer to a full-service hospital or taken home in the morning.

On the road

Being prepared is equally important when you are away from home. If you plan to travel with your pet, take a copy of your pet’s current medical record with you as well as a photo of your pet in case of an emergency. Take the time before the trip to make sure you know the locations and contact information for veterinary hospitals at your destination and at locations along the way if you are driving and plan to stay overnight along the way.

Financing an emergency

Being prepared for an emergency also involves being prepared financially in order to afford the cost of emergency medical care and possibly the cost of extended hospital care. Ways to finance medical care include:

• Care Credit, a credit service that allows you to cover the cost of medical care by splitting up the cost into monthly payments. There are no finance charges as long as payments are made on time. You can apply for Care Credit online at http://www.carecredit.com/vetmed/endorsements.html or call (800) 677-0718. You can access Care Credit from our website GalacticPet.Com . Select Pet Insurance, Care Credit, then click “visit this business.”
• Pet insurance can provide for needed financial assistance in the event of an emergency. Please visit our site and select the Pet Insurance category for the listings for Pet Insurance providers.
• A savings account may also help in the event of an emergency. Setting aside a little money each week can help to cover your pet’s medical expenses.

In the event of a true emergency, being well prepared can save precious time and help the chances of your companion’s survival. Please take the time and effort to be well prepared. Both you and your companion will be grateful you did!

© 8/4/07 Dr. Eric R. Hurwit, www.GalacticPet.Com