Do we have any pet lovers? Read this important information about China-made pet food.
Petco has begun the New Year by quickly fulfilling one of its main resolutions: Removing all dog and cat treats made in China from its store shelves and website.
The past few years have brought headlines of tens of thousands of American pets becoming ill after eating Chinese-produced pet food; and over 1,000 pets have actually died after consuming these contaminated treats.
While the U.S. Food and Drug Administration continues to investigate the link between pet sickness and treats made in China, Petco has made good on its promise to remove these treats from their 1,300 stores across the nation as well as their website. Vets from the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) have faced this issue before and speak to the history of problems with pet treats produced in China as well as the ongoing efforts to provide American pets with safe food. Here are some answers to questions that may surface from these new headlines:
Is Petco the only retailer to pull Chinese-produced pet foods? While Petco is the first to pull Chinese-produced pet treats, it has been reported that PetSmart, Inc is going to follow in their footsteps and pull these treats later in 2015.
How can we make sure the food we are giving our pets is safe? While further investigation is underway about china-made chow, the safest bet is to purchase domestically produced pet food and treats. Your vet will be able to give you safe and appropriate recommendations for your pet’s diet.
What are some of the symptoms to lookout for in case I’ve fed my pet these treats in the past? While the investigation into these treats is still underway, the FDA has advised pet owners that symptoms can include: vomiting, decreased appetite and movement, increased urination, and water consumption. Some of the more severe symptoms have led to the diagnoses of kidney failure, gastrointestinal bleeding, and pancreatitis.
For more information about pet food safety visit www.AVMA.org
