Dog product recalls can be scary, and unfortunately, there seem to have been a lot of them lately.
To add to the growing list, Nylabone has now recalled dog chews sold under the Nylabone Puppy Starter Kit brand for possible Salmonella contamination.
The risk is potentially dangerous for both dogs and humans. The recall was issued late last week on April 22, 2015.
The recall notice stated that there was a risk of Salmonella to any animal that ingested the products, and also to any humans who may have handled the chew toys.
The notice says that the threat is particularly great if owners did not wash their hands after handling the products or any surfaces that may have been exposed to the products.
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No illnesses have been reported yet, but dog owners are encouraged to monitor anyone who may have been exposed for signs of Salmonella infection.
These signs can include vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, bloody diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps.
Salmonella infection can also cause more serious illnesses, including arthritis, arterial infections, muscle pain, endocarditis, urinary tract symptoms, and eye irritation.
Nylabone is encouraging anyone who thinks they may have been exposed to the recalled products to see their healthcare provider immediately.
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Dogs with Salmonella infections may have diarrhea, bloody diarrhea, seem lethargic, run a fever, or begin vomiting. Dog owners may also notice a decrease in their pet’s appetite, noticeable abdominal pain, or signs of a fever. Infected pets that are not showing signs may still be carriers of the infection and can infect other pets, as well as any humans that they come in contact with.
Pet owners whose dogs may have been exposed to the products are encouraged to seek veterinary care right away, especially if the dog consumed the products.
The recalled Puppy Starter Kits included a lot of dog chews and were distributed across the United States, Canada, and through one online mail-order facility.
The recalled products came in 1.69-ounce packages and were marked with Lot #21935, UPC 0-18214-81291-3.
This information is located on the back of the packaging, and dog owners should also see the expiration date 03/22/18 stamped on the back of the package as well.
The contamination was noticed after routine testing by Nylabone revealed the presence of Salmonella in one of the Puppy Starter Kit packages.
When the test was performed, some orders for the product had already been shipped.