Salmonella Contaminated Pig Ears Dog Treats Recalled in 33 States

At Healthy Spot, we know that your dogs and cats are more than just pets, they’re family. That’s why we’re committed to provide monthly updates on pet food recalls, warnings or additional product information on all pet products, including updates from brands that we may or may not carry. It’s our mission to inspire healthy pet lifestyles and we hope by reporting on these pet product updates, you feel confident you are treating your pet the very best.

July 5, 2019 — Pet Supplies Plus announced a recall on pig ears in over 400 retail stores across 33 states. These treats may contain Salmonella - a harmful bacteria for both humans and animals that can cause numerous symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, and fevers.

Testing showed positive for the bacteria on a bulk pig ear product in a Pet Supplies store. The company has since removed the product from all its stores, and has ceased shipment from their distribution center.

Ongoing investigations by both the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are looking into a potential relation between this recall and recent various Salmonella outbreaks.

The CDC reports that 45 people have come down with salmonellosis in 13 states - 12 patients have been hospitalized so far.

In addition to that, the agencies are also looking into the breakout of multidrug-resistant Salmonella infections that may be linked to physical contact with the pig ears.

Despite these events coinciding, the CDC reports that “A common supplier of pig ear treats in this outbreak has not been identified.”

If you think that one of your pets or family members may have Salmonella infection, contact your veterinarian or primary care immediately. Although most can recover from the infection on their own, some may need to see a doctor. Those older in age, younger in age, or who have compromised immune systems are more likely to need medical intervention.

07/22/2019 UPDATE

The CDC has expanded its investigation of the salmonellosis outbreak to 27 states.

07/30/2019 UPDATE

The Lennox International Inc. of Edison, New Jersey, has recalled its Natural Pig Ears dog treats due to potential Salmonella contamination.

08/01/2019 UPDATE

The FDA is now advising dog owners to avoid buying ALL pig ears treats.

Although Healthy Spot does not carry this product, we highly advise to stop using this product. If you have one and need to safely dispose of it, place the treat in a plastic bag, then discard it in a trash bin. Be sure to securely seal the bin so that no other animals may get ahold of the affected product.

If you're looking for alternatives to this treat, stop by your local Healthy Spot to consult with one of our team members.

Sources:

https://www.dogfoodadvisor.com/dog-food-recall/pet-supplies-plus-pig-ears-recall/

https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/news-events/fda-investigates-contaminated-pig-ear-pet-treats-connected-human-salmonella-infections

https://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/pet-treats-07-19/