All packages of this product are now being recalled according to the company website. This is a heck of a turn of events – thought I was seeing things (thanks to Google Alert and Petside). Wish someone was saying something about this escalation. There’s still no official confirmation of Salmonella. I sent an email the other day to Mr. Witcher regarding an interview – Probably why I’ve not received a response.
MERRICK PET CARE RECALLS BEEF FILET SQUARES & TEXAS HOLD’EMS 10 oz BAG (ITEM # 60016 ALL LOTS) BECAUSE OF POSSIBLE SALMONELLA HEALTH RISK
08.13.2010
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 13, 2010
Customer Inquiries: (800) 664-7387
Other Inquiries: JAMES WITCHER, COO (806) 322-2806
Merrick Pet Care, Inc. of Amarillo, Texas is recalling all lots of its 10 oz “Beef Filet Squares” for dogs and “Texas Hold’ems” pet treats because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella. Salmonella can affect animals and there is risk to humans from handling contaminated pet products. People handling the treats can become infected with Salmonella, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the chews or any surfaces exposed to these products. Consumers should dispose of these products in a safe manner by securing them in a covered trash receptacle.
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 immediately.
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 immediately.
The “Beef Filet Squares” & “Texas Hold’ems” were shipped to distributors and retailers throughout the US. These individuals have been notified and have activated their recall procedures.
No illnesses have been reported to date.
Consumers who have purchased 10 ounce packages of “Beef Filet Squares for Dogs” & “Texas Hold’ems” are urged to return the unused portion to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 1-800-664-7387 M-F 8:00 – 5:00 CDT.
[…] This post was mentioned on Twitter by GoPetFriendly.com and Rod Burkert, Doggy Bytes. Doggy Bytes said: Merrick Extends Recall Extension:”Beef Filet Squares”, “Texas Hold ‘ems” http://bit.ly/bkmIjC via @dancingdogblog […]
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