THE PROVINCE
Latest News
Warning issued for raw pet food
Andrea Woo
The Province
Sunday, July 17, 2005
The Public Health Agency of Canada is warning pet owners that raw and natural pet foods may be linked to salmonella infections in humans.
A recent safety advisory listed a number of pet treats linked to salmonellosis in humans and warned pet owners not to purchase or use them.
"If you have the treats that were identified in this release, be aware that these products may be contaminated," said Linda LeBlanc of the Office of Food Safety and Recall. "If you have natural treats, treat [them] with precaution. The product might be dangerous to your health eventually."
Recently, there have been three reported cases of salmonellosis in humans linked to natural pet treats in Canada.
Aron Pet Food, based in Abbotsford, is voluntarily recalling two of its products linked with salmonellosis in humans.
Symptoms of salmonellosis typically last four to seven days, and include diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.
Young children, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems are particularly susceptible to salmonella infections.
Raw food diets have been credited for improving health conditions in pets, including oral health, shedding and flee infestations.
awoo@png.canwest.com
© The Vancouver Province 2005