Doggie Wishbone (Item #29050, Lot 11031 Best by 30 Jan 2013) recalled Merrick Pet Care due to potential Salmonella contamination

A single batch of the Doggie Wishbone pet treat (ITEM # 29050, UPC # 2280829050, Lot 11031 Best By 30 Jan 2013) has been recalled by Texas-based Merrick Pet Care due to potential Salmonella contamination. Distributors and retailers in 10 states in the US who were shipped 248 cartons of this manufactured lot have been notified, and they have already commenced recall procedures. Apart from for one batch of Doggie Wishbone pet treat, this recall has not affected any other Merrick Pet Care products or brand products.

Animals are infected by Salmonella. Humans handling contaminated pet products or treats are at a risk of Salmonella infection, particularly if they have not exercised hygiene by thoroughly washing their hands subsequent to contact with the chews or any surfaces exposed to these products. These products must be secured in a covered trash container and disposed off in a safe manner.

Salmonella infection can cause one of the following symptoms in healthy people: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. Salmonella infection can seldom cause more serious ailments, such as arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, or urinary tract symptoms. Consumers should monitor themselves carefully for these symptoms, and must immediately contact their healthcare practitioners, should anyone demonstrate these signs after contact with the contaminated product.

While most Salmonella infected pets may demonstrate lethargy, diarrhea, bloody diarrhea, fever, and vomiting, some pets will only have only decreased appetite, fever, and abdominal pain. Healthy pets that are infected act as carriers and transmit the disease to other animals or humans. Please rush to the closest veterinarian incase your pet has any of these symptoms after consuming the recalled product.

Although this problem was brought into light during a routine product sampling by the FDA, this product has not reported any illness or received any consumer complaints thus far.

Merrick Pet Care acknowledges that the safety and efficacy of their products is of paramount significance and express regret for any nuisance due to this recall.

Buyers of the Doggie Wishbone lot code 11031 are advised to return the unused portion to the place of purchase for a full refund.
Consumers with queries may contact the company at 1-800-664-7387, from Monday through Friday 8:00 am – 5:00 pm CST.