Nasty Chicken Jerky Treats from China Associated with Severe Illness in Dogs - Again - Poisoned Pets

The Gruesome History of Icky Poopie Dog Treats from China

In September 2007, the  American Veterinary Medical Association issued an alert that stated they had been receiving calls from veterinarians reporting Fanconi syndrome-like disease in dogs that appeared to be associated with the consumption of chicken jerky treats made in China. These products are also labeled as chicken tenders, strips or treats.The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) was alerted and investigated the complaints, but testing of the products (surprise, surprise) did not identify any toxins or contaminants. The AVMA continued to receive occasional reports of suspected cases through February 2009.

September 2009, in Australia an outbreak in dogs of acquired proximal renal tubulopathy,  were associated with the feeding of chicken jerky treats from China.  The kidney conditions, also known as Fanconi-like syndrome caused the fatality of a number of dogs.

On June 15, 2011, the AVMA received notification from the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) that they have received reports that mirror the cases reported in 2007. The AVMA issued an alert to its members on June 16, informing them of the situation in Canada and recommending vigilance for any suspected cases in the U.S. The AVMA also issued an alert on June 17 to the state veterinary medical associations and allied organizations represented in the AVMA House of Delegates. These products may also labeled as chicken tenders, strips or treats.

What, Me Worry?

The type of kidney failure associated with chicken jerky strips is called acquired Fanconi syndrome. Urine test results consistently show glucose and granular casts. Blood tests may show hypokalemia (low potassium), mildly increased liver enzymes, and acidosis.

Fanconi’s syndrome is a progressive disease, which, if not treated, ultimately results in transport system failure to the point where solute losses are significant enough to overwhelm other compensatory mechanisms and the dog can no longer maintain homeostasis. The most significant of these is the loss of bicarbonate (HCO₃^-). Proximal renal tubular acidosis subsequently develops and, if left uncorrected, will ultimately lead to death.

What the Experts are Saying About the Nasty Treats

• Several cases in Canada have been reported to the CVMA and they have notified the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA).


• The FDA has been made aware of the cases in Canada and their resemblance to the earlier cases in the U.S.


• Based on very preliminary information, it appears that this problem is more likely to occur in small-breed dogs that are fed these treats regularly and/or in amounts exceeding the label-recommended frequency or amount.


• Dogs affected with this syndrome usually have a history of vomiting, lethargy and anorexia. A review by the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine of the 2007 cases stated that blood chemistry in many cases revealed hypokalemia and a mild increase in liver enzymes. Blood gas analysis indicated acidosis, and glucosuria and granular casts may be seen. Fanconi screens on urine were positive. At the time, the ACVIM recommended treatment consisting of supportive care, electrolyte supplementation (including potassium supplementation) and blood gas monitoring.


• No recalls have been issued for any chicken jerky treat product (not surprising. And don’t expect one either).
  

I dunt know nuthing, I jus work here

• The brand(s) of chicken jerky treats that may be affected by this alert is unknown. The treats may involve flavors or meats other than chicken. The treats may also be sold as strips, tenders, chews, bites, pulls, sticks or whatever name they usually give that crap.


• The cause (contaminant, toxin or otherwise) of the problem and the exact mechanism by which it causes the illness (they have a pretty good idea, they’re just not talking, yet), is unknown.


• Whether or not the current situation is limited to Canada or is also occurring in the U.S. and if it is occurring in the U.S., if it is a recurrence or if the problem has been going on (but potentially unrecognized) since 2007.


• The toxic treats may not indicate on the package they were “Made in China”. If the imported product or ingredient undergoes any substantive changes after it is in the USA, the manufacturer is not required to label the actual country of origin on the package.

So, Just What the Hell Do I Do Now?

• Veterinarians who suspect a pet illness associated with the consumption of chicken jerky treats should report the case to the FDA. Canadian veterinarians should report cases to CVMA Member Services unless directed otherwise by the CVMA.


• For more information about diagnosing and treating the condition, please refer to the ACVIM’s recommendations, which will be updated as needed.


• If a dog presents with a history of vomiting, lethargy and anorexia, coupled with a history of consumption of chicken jerky treats, the following tests may be indicated to indicate Fanconi syndrome-like disease: complete blood chemistry, blood gas analysis and urinalysis. A review by the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine of the 2007 cases stated that blood chemistry in many cases revealed hypokalemia and a mild increase in liver enzymes. Blood gas analysis indicated acidosis, and urinalysis consistently showed glucosuria and granular casts. Fanconi screens on urine were positive.


• During the 2007 cases, the ACVIM recommended treatment consisting of supportive care, electrolyte supplementation (including liberal potassium supplementation) and blood gas monitoring.

Common Sense for Dummies

• It is up to you to decide whether or not you will feed your dog chicken jerky treats. If you choose to do so, we recommend that you feed them in small quantities and only on occasion. This is especially important for small-breed dogs. (Personally, I wouldn’t touch the crap with a ten-foot pole)
  


• If your pet is vomiting, lethargic, or does not want to eat, consult your veterinarian, especially if there is a history of chicken jerky treat consumption. If your pet is showing these signs, it does not necessarily mean that your pet has been made ill by chicken jerky treats (don’t take any chances, don’t walk – run to the vet ASAP) – your veterinarian will likely need to perform tests to determine the cause of the problem.


• If your pet becomes ill and you and/or your veterinarian suspect the illness may be associated with the consumption of chicken jerky treats, discontinue feeding the treats and save the treats and packaging (storing them out of your pet’s reach and in a place where a family member will not mistakenly feed them to your pet) in case they are needed for testing.

Mollie’s Crazy Cat Lady Activist Advice

• Call the FDA and tell them to get their shit together. Not that it will do any good, but they still need to know, never-the-less. Report a problem here.


• Call the store you bought the crap from and give ‘em Hell.


• Call the store’s HQ and tell them you are going to boycott their store, tell everybody and his brother they suck, start an I hate _____ big box pet store Facebook campaign, write about it in your blog, picket the store, e-mail the store, go to their FB and Twitter pages and tell them they suck (just be sure to unlike yourself afterwards)


• Call & e-mail the manufacturer and give them a piece-o-yer-mind, that you’ve hired a lawyer and are going to bankrupt them for making your dog sick. Do not let the customer service person bullshit you – ask to speak to senior management or you’re gonna keep calling till Doomsday or until Hell freezes over, which ever comes first. Hopefully they speak enough English to understand you.

I Wanna Know More, Dangit!

Dog Treat Warning Snopes report: Yup, it’s TRUE (Snopes)

Remain vigilant for illness linked to chicken jerky treat consumption (ACVIM)

Fanconi Syndrome in Dogs (vet.uga.edu)

Jerky Treats Imported from China Reportedly Causing Kidney Failure in Dogs (DogAware)

How Dog Jerky is Made in China (WARNING: GRAPHIC)

Canadian VMA Cautions About Chicken Jerkey Treats (June 2011)

FDA Continues To Receive Complaints about Chicken Jerky Products for Dogs and Cautions Consumers (FDA December 2008)

POTENTIAL NEW THREAT TO PETS: UPDATED INFORMATION FOR VETERINARIANS (ACVIM 2007)

Related articles

• 
  Merrick’s Doggie Wisbone Pet Treat for Dogs Recalled for Salmonella Contamination (molliemorrissette.wordpress.com)

Save Your Pet From Poisoning

Save Your Pet From Poisoning

   Your dog or cat may simply be poisoned by things that you just have round the house. though you would possibly not consider chocolate, paracetamol or lilies as being toxic – they’ll indeed be deadly to the one you love pet. 
   According to the Vet Poisons info service, it’s quite common for a pet to be poisoned in their house. Some common substances that are toxic to pets include: 


   Vermin poison: you would possibly be making an attempt to urge rid of unwanted rodents or slugs, however these chemicals will cause excessive internal bruising or bleeding in your pet if ingested. the consequences may not be immediately obvious, however the results are terribly serious. 


   Paracetamol: this drug would possibly relieve you of a headache, however animals are terribly sensitive to paracetamol and even atiny low quantity may be extraordinarily harmful. Ibuprofen is additionally notably dangerous to dogs and may cause vomiting, diarrhoea, gastric ulceration and kidney failure. 


   Chocolate: we tend to all love somewhat of chocolate, however this sweet treat contains theobromine, a chemical terribly just like caffeine, that isn’t sensible for your pet to eat. Dark chocolate is extremely high in theobromine and even atiny low piece may cause tremors, convulsions and heart issues for your pet. 


   Lilies: these lovely flowers are terribly toxic to cats and may cause kidney failure. the entire plant is toxic, and even a quick exposure to the pollen may be doubtless terribly dangerous to a cat. 


   Grapes, raisins and sultanas: these dried fruits style nice on cereal. you would possibly not assume twice if one dropped on the ground and your dog had to a small degree nibble. However, grapes, raisins and sultanas will cause kidney failure in dogs. Not all dogs are sensitive to the present food, however it’s higher to not take a risk. 


   Sweeteners: artificial sweeteners, like xylitol, are utilized in sugar-free chewing gums and sweets and are extraordinarily harmful to dogs. though you will have a sweet tooth, if your dog ingests xylitol, it will cause low blood sugar and liver injury. 


   If you think that your pet has been poisoned, you must contact your native veterinary apply immediately. Time is of the essence! Take a sample of the substance ingested to relinquish to your vet, as this can facilitate them assess and treat your animal. If you’ve got pet insurance, you won’t have to be compelled to worry concerning vet’s bills either. Some insurers can cowl you for up to £7,000 in a very year if your pet becomes unwell or has an accident. You won’t even need to be out of pocket if your pet falls unwell, as some insurers can pay your vet directly, provided they’re started to receive payments. 
   Rather than a visit to the vets, however keep your pet out of harms method and make certain they only eat what they’re purported to.

Lastest on Vaccines from Dr. Jean Dodd

About the Rabies Challenge Fund

AS OF 2011 sometime

Dr. Jean Dodd’s NEW vaccine protocol -  PERMISSION TO CROSSPOST
————————————————————
Dr. W. Jean Dodd’s vaccination protocol is now being adopted by ALL 27
North American veterinary schools. I highly recommend that you read
this. Copy and save it to your files. Print it and pass it out at dog
fairs, cat shows, kennel club meetings, dog parks, give a copy to your
veterinarian and groomer, etc., etc. Get the word out.
Hi everyone…. THIS is wonderful news, that the veterinary schools are
now going to be teaching that over-vaccination of pets (once a year
“boosters”) is only not necessary, but in some cases can be harmful or
deadly! It has information for both dogs and cats. There still is an
ongoing study regarding the Rabies vaccine. Most states now allow
(reluctantly) 3 year Rabies, but the study is collecting data on
whether or not even that may be too much. They are looking at 8 or 10
year Rabies!
I hope you all stop having yearly boosters for your pets. If you’re
concerned with immune levels, have the vet run a Titer test. THEN and
only then, if the levels are below acceptable, should you have a
booster. After all, when is the last time you had a “booster” for
smallpox, or whooping cough, or anything else you had shots for as a
child? Immune systems work the same in all mammals, and the concept
that pets have to have yearly shots doesn’t make any more sense than if
you had have shots every year. If mammal¢s immune systems were that
weak in fending off these things, all of them, us included, would have
been extinct years ago!

VACCINATION NEWS FLASH
I would like to make you aware that all 27 veterinary schools in North
America are in the process of changing their protocols for vaccinating
dogs and cats. Some of this information will present an
ethical & economic challenge to vets, and there will be skeptics. Some
organizations have come up with a political compromise suggesting
vaccinations every 3 years to appease those who fear loss of income vs
those concerned about potential side effects.
Politics, traditions 20 or the doctor’s economic well being should not
be a factor in medical decision.

NEW PRINCIPLES OF IMMUNOLOGY
“Dogs and cats immune systems mature fully at 6 months. If a modified
live virus (MLV) vaccine is given after 6 months of age, it produces an
immunity which is good for the life of the pet (i.e: canine distemper,
parvo, feline distemper). If another MLV vaccine is given a year later,
the antibodies from the first vaccine neutralize the antigens of the
second vaccine and there is little or no effect. The titer is not
“boosted” nor are more memory cells induced.”< BR>
Not only are annual boosters for parvo and distemper unnecessary, they
subject the pet to potential risks of allergic reactions and
immune-mediated hemolytic anemia. “There is no scientific documentation
to back up label claims for annual administration of MLV vaccines.”
Puppies receive antibodies through their mother’s milk. This natural
protection can last 8-14 weeks. Puppies & kittens should NOT be
vaccinated at LESS than 8 weeks. Maternal immunity will neutralize the
vaccine and little protection (0-38%) will be produced. Vaccination at
6 weeks will, however, delay the timing of the first highly effective
vaccine. Vaccinations given 2 weeks
apart suppress rather than stimulate the immune system. A series of
vaccinations is given starting at 8 weeks and given 3-4 weeks apart up
to 16 weeks of age. Another vaccination given sometime after 6 months
of age (usually at 1 year 4 months) will provide lifetime immunity.

———————————————

CURRENT RECOMMENDATIONS FOR DOGS
Distemper & Parvo *”According to Dr. Schultz, AVMA, 8-15-95, when a
vaccinations series given at 2, 3 & 4 months and again at 1 year with
MLV, puppies and kitten program memory cells that survive for life,
providing lifelong immunity.” Dr. Carmichael at Cornell and Dr. Schultz
has studies showing immunity against challenge at 2-10 years for canine
distemper & 4 years for parvovirus. Studies for longer duration are
pending. “There are no new strains of parvovirus as one manufacturer
would like to suggest. Parvovirus vaccination provides cross immunity
for all types.” Hepatitis (Adenovirus) is one of the agents known to be
a cause of kennel cough. Only vaccines with CAV-2 should be used as
CAV-1 vaccines carry the risk of “hepatitis blue-eye” reactions &
kidney damage.
*Bordetella Parainfluenza: Commonly called “Kennel cough”.
Recommended only for those dogs boarded, groomed, taken to dog shows,
or for any reason housed where exposed to a lot of dogs. The intranasal
vaccine provides more complete and more rapid onset of immunity with
less chance of reaction. Immunity requires 72 hours and does not
protect from every cause of kennel cough. Immunity is of short duration
(4 to 6 months).*
*RABIES – There have been no reported cases of rabid dogs or cats in
Harris, Montgomery or Ft. Bend Counties [ Texas ] but there have been
rabid skunks and bats so the potential exists. It is a killed vaccine
and must be given every year.
*Lyme disease-Lyme disease is a tick born disease which can cause
lameness, kidney failure and heart disease in dogs. Ticks can also
transmit the disease to humans. The original Ft. Dodge killed bacteria
has proven to be the most effective vaccine. Lyme disease prevention
should emphasize early removal of ticks. Amitraz collars are more
effective than Top Spot, as amitraz paralyzes the tick’s mouthparts
preventing transmission of disease.

————————————————

**VACCINATIONS NOT RECOMMENDED* *
Multiple components in vaccines compete with each other for the immune
system and result in lesser immunity for each individual disease as
well as increasing the risk of a reaction. Canine Corona Virus is only
a disease of puppies. It is rare, self limiting (dogs get well in 3
days without treatment). Cornell & Texas A&M have only diagnosed one
case each in the last 7 years. Corona virus does not cause disease in
adult dogs.*
*Leptospirosis vaccine is a common cause of adverse reactions in dogs.
Most of the clinical cases of lepto reported in dogs in the US are
caused by serovaars (or types) grippotyphosa and bratsilvia. The
vaccines contain different serovaars eanicola and ictohemorrhagica.
Cross protection is not provided and protection is short lived . Lepto
vaccine is immuno-supressive to puppies less than 16 weeks.

—————————————————–

NEW DEVELOPMENTS:
Giardia is the most common intestinal parasite of humans in North
America , 30% or more of all dogs & cats are infected with giardia. It
has now been demonstrated that humans can transmit giardia to dogs &
cats and vice versa.*
Heartworm preventative must be given year-round in Houston .

*VACCINES BADLY NEEDED
New vaccines in development include: Feline Immunodeficiency Virus and
cat scratch fever vaccine for cats and Ehrlichia [one of the other tick
diseases, much worse than Lyme] for dogs.

THE VIEW FROM THE TRENCHES; BUSINESS ASPECTS
Most vets recommend annual boosters and most kennel operators require
them. For years, the pricing structure of vets has misled clients into
thinking that the inherent value of an annual o ffice visit was in the
“shots”. They failed to emphasize the importance of a physical exam for
early detection of treatable diseases. It is my hope that you will
continue to require Rabies & Kennel cough and emphasize the importance
of a recent vet exam. I also hope you will accept the new protocols and
honor these pets as currently vaccinated. Those in the boarding
business, who will honor the new vaccine facilities, are reluctant to
change.

CONCLUSION
Dogs & cats no longer need to be vaccinated against distemper, parvo, &
feline leukemia every year. Once the initial series of puppy or kitten
vaccinations and first annual vaccinations are completed, immunity from
MLV vaccines persists for life. It has been shown that cats over 1 year
of age are immune to Feline Leukemia whether they have been vaccinated
or not.
Imagine the money you will save, not to mention fewer risks from side
risk of mediated hemolytic anemia and allergic reactions are r educed
by less frequent use of vaccines as well as by avoiding unnecessary
vaccines such as K-9 Corona virus and chlamydia for cats, as well as
ineffective vaccines such as Leptospirosis and FIP. Intranasal vaccine
for Rhiotracheitis and Calici virus, two upper respiratory viruses of
cats provide more complete protection than injectable vaccines with
less risk of serious reactions.
The AAHA and all 27 veterinary schools of North America are our biggest
endorsement for these new protocols.*

*Dr. Bob Rogers*

Please consider as current on all vaccinations for boarding purposes.
DOGS Initial series of puppy vaccines
1. Distemper, hepatitis, parvo, parinfluenze – 3 sets one month apart
concluding at 16 weeks of age.*
2. Rabies at 16 weeks of age (later is better)
3. Bordetella within last 4-6 months

First annual (usually at 1 year and 4 months of age)*
1. DHP, Parvo, Rabies
2. Bordetella within last 4-6 months 2 years or older

1. Rabies within last year
2. Bordetella within last 4-6 months
3. DHP & Parvo given anytime over 6 months of age, but not
necessarily within the last year.

Recommended: Physical exam for transmissible diseases and health risks.

CATS Initial kitten series
1. Distemper [PLP], Rhino Calicivirus, Feline Leukemia Vaccine – 3 sets
given one month apart concluding at 16 weeks.
2. Rabies at 16 weeks

First Annual [usually at 1 year and 4 months of age]
1. Distemper (PLP), Rhino Calicivirus, Rabies 2 years or older

1. Rabies within the last year
2. Rhino Calicivirus within last year
3. Distemper and FelV given any time after 6 months of age, but not
necessarily with the last year.
Recommended: Physical exam, FeLV/FIV testing, fecal exam for giardia.

36.768209 -76.287493

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Canine Health from LifeVantage–Protandim by Any Other Name & Still No Real Evidence

I was recently asked to comment on yet another “kitchen sink” mélange of herbs and supplements promoted w/ claims of broad benefits for dogs: Canine Health from LifeVantage. This proved easier than I had expected since the product is identical to Protandim, except for a couple of additional ingredients.

You may recall that Protandim is a supplement which I have reviewed previously (1), and which Dr. Harriet Hall has discussed at Science-Based Medicine several times (2,3,4). The theoretical justification for the product rests on the supposed anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of the ingredients. None of the ingredients have well-demonstrated benefits or clear evidence that there is negligible risk in using them, though several have interesting properties that warrant further study. It would not at all surprise me if compounds derived from some of these ingredients turned out to have therapeutic value, but that is a far cry from justifying the kind of claims made for this product.

In any case, there is growing doubt about the hypothesis that oxidative damage is a significant cause of many disorders or that anti-oxidants are necessarily safe and beneficial (5,6). And all well-studied anti-inflammatory medications have significant potential risks as well as benefits, so it is almost certain the same would be true for compounds like those in Protandim if these turned out to have significant anti-inflammatory effects.

Of course, it doesn’t appear that scientific research and evidence is necessarily the primary concern for the founder of the company that sells Protandim, based on his own explanation for why he has discovered a miraculous remedy the scientific community has overlooked:

I already mentioned this in Entry #1: Motivations, but it bears repeating here. All the details you’re about to read concerning the development of Protandim mean nothing – absolutely nothing at all – without acknowledging that God used me as a vessel in brining Protandim to fruition. For almost 35 years scientists were looking for this tool after Dr. Joe McCord and Dr. Irwin Fridovich discovered Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) in 1969. For almost 35 years the pharmaceutical industry failed. For almost 35 years the nutraceutical industry failed.

Then God intervened . . . and has taken us on this unlikely, exciting journey.

The bottom line for this supplement hasn’t changed since my original review:

The underlying theory used to promote this product, that anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant effects are always safe and beneficial, is highly doubtful. There is only weak in vitro and animal model research to indicate that the ingredients in Protandim, or the combination product, have potentially useful effects on cells or biochemical markers. There is absolutely no clinical trial evidence to indicate Protandim has any of the claimed benefits in humans or animals. While the absence of evidence is not proof the product is unsafe or ineffective, it is absolutely a reason to be skeptical of wild claims of miraculous benefits. At best, using this product is simply rolling the dice and hoping for the best.

Like Protandim, CanineHealth is said to prevent or improve a wide range of seemingly unrelated conditions, including problems in the joints, brain, heart, and eyes. It is purported to do so by reducing “oxidative stress.” The difference between the two products is the inclusion in Canine Health of omega-3 fatty acids” and “Type II chicken sternum collagen.” As with Protandim, no details or dosages of these ingredients is disclosed.

The most common source of omega-3 fatty acid supplements is fish oils. There is good evidence that these can improve symptoms of allergic skin disease (7), some weak evidence suggesting a benefit for arthritis treatment (8,9). It has been suggested that their inclusion in diets can improve signs of dementia in dogs, but the mmore specific evidence in human isn’t very supportive(10, 11). It isn’t clear if fish oil is even the source of essential fatty acids in Canine Health, but if it is it has only weak evidence to suggest a benefit, and there is no reason to mix it with all of the other untested stuff in the product.

With regard to Type II Collagen, despite a number of studies there is insufficient evidence to support any benefit of this supplement as a treatment of arthritis in humans (12, 13). There is also no convincing evidence supporting use in dogs.

As for the product itself, the company claims to have paid another organization to conduct a double-blind, placebo controlled clinical study showing “a reduction in oxidative stress, improvement in mobility and improved cognitive function.” Naturally, the results of this study have not been published and the details are not available to the public, so we have to take LifeVantage’s word for the results.

So we have another catchall, anti-oxidant based mixture of herbs and supplements claimed to have wide-ranging benefits but with no convincing scientific evidence supporting these claims. Numerous red flags of quackery are present, and there is heavy reliance on testimonials and celebrity endorsement rather than scientific research to promote the product. None of this is definitive proof that it doesn’t have some or all of the miraculous benefits claimed, only that there is currently no good reason to believe it does. Yet another roll of the dice with our pets’ health.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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ALERT: Vets warn of new treats from China poisoning dogs - Poisoned Pets

Not so sweet potato

Despite repeated warnings issued by the FDA, veterinarians are reporting new cases of dogs developing symptoms of kidney failure (Fanconi’s syndrome) similar to dogs who have been poisoned by Chinese-made chicken jerky treats, but this time they are being poisoned with a whole new class of treats: sweet potato treats imported from China.

The brands veterinarians say are associated with the new cases of unexplained acute kidney failure are Canyon Creek Ranch Chicken Yam Good Dog Treats (Nestle-Purina), Beefeaters Sweet Potato Treats (16 types of yam-related treats), Drs. Foster and Smith (exact item not specified in the report) and Dogswell Veggie Life Vitality (4 types of Veggie Life brands).

It’s not just jerky

It is important to remember that although the type of treat most often mentioned in the press is described as a jerky treat, the treats may also be called by a myriad of other names such as stix, chips, poppers, tenders, drumettes, kabob’s, strips, fries, lollipops, twists, wraps, bars, tops and discs (I wish I was making this up).

The report goes on to say that there is speculation the problems may also extend to pork treats and cat treats imported from China.

Phucking Phorate

In 2010 the FDA issued an Import Refusal Report and later issued an Import Alert for sweet potato dog treats imported from a company in China (whose main business is, oddly, in rubber and plastic raw materials) were contaminated with a highly toxic pesticide known as Phorate.

Phorate is an extremely toxic organophosphorus compound and is among the most poisonous chemicals commonly used for pest control. It is used in agriculture as a pesticide and Phorate is identified by Pesticide Action Network (PAN) and Californians for Pesticide Reform (CPR) as one of the “most toxic” set of pesticides known (aka a Bad Actor) in the world.

Although Phorate is known primarily as a neurotoxin and not classified as a nephrotoxin and therefore unlikely to cause acute renal failure in dogs, its presence in any food item is a disturbing indication that treats of any kind imported from China could pose a risk to the health and safety of pets and to the consumers handling them.

Veterinarians know better

Holistic veterinarian Dr. Jean Hofve report on the sweet potato treats from China follows:

Sweet Potato Treats from China Causing Kidney Failure?

April 5, 2012

By jhofve77  (Dr. Jean Hofve of Little Big Cat)

On the Veterinary Information Network, several veterinarians have reported cases where dogs have developed symptoms of kidney failure (Fanconi’s syndrome) similar to dogs who have been poisoned by Chinese-made chicken jerky treats.

So far, the brands implicated are all made in China:

• Beefeaters Sweet Potato Snacks for Dogs


• Canyon Creek Ranch Chicken Yam Good Dog Treats (FDA has issued a warning on this product)


• Drs. Foster and Smith (exact item not specified in the report)


• Dogswell Veggie Life Vitality

There was also speculation that the problem may also extend to pork products (pig ears) and cat treats made in China. Australian veterinarians have reported similar symptoms from chicken jerky treats, as well as several cases associated with “Veggie Dents,” a dog treat made in Vietnam by Virbac, an American company. Virbac recalled one batch of Veggie Dents in Australia in 2009.

The FDA still claims that there is no pending recall of Chinese-made pet treats, even though it has repeatedly issued warnings about the problems associated with chicken jerky treats since 2007.

Symptoms of Fanconi’s syndrome include:

• Increased drinking and urinating


• “Accidents” in the house


• Reduced appetite


• Weight loss


• Weakness


• Blood and urine tests show azotemia (high BUN and Creatinine), dilute urine, and glucose in the urine (that isn’t diabetes).

Most affected dogs have recovered over time with good supportive care.

We strongly recommend that you check the source of all cat or dog treats you may have purchased, and do not give them to your pet if they were made in China. It would be best to avoid any pet food or treat products made in China, and probably a good idea to avoid all dried animal parts, because they are not heated to a temperature that will kill pathogenic bacteria.

References
Phorate EXTOXNET (Cornell)

Related articles by Poisoned Pets
Dogswell slams Poisoned Pets over safety of Vitality treats (poisonedpets.com)
Canadian vets report of life-threatening dog illness linked to imported treats from US and China (poisonedpets.com)
Secret FDA document reveals test results of chicken jerky treats (poisonedpets.com)
Class Action Lawsuit Filed Against Nestle-Purina and Walmart over Waggin’ Train Dog Treats (poisonedpets.com)
Bombshell: the FDA is not looking for toxins in chicken jerky treats (poisonedpets.com)
FDA veterinarian confirms boots on the ground in China and asks vets for help (poisonedpets.com)
FDA inspectors are investigating jerky treat production facilities in China (poisonedpets.com)
Secret FDA document reveals test results of chicken jerky treats (poisonedpets.com)
U.S. Senator Brown Presses the FDA Over Inadequate Response to Tainted Chicken Jerky Inquiry (poisonedpets.com)
More dogs die as poisonous jerky treats remain on store shelves (poisonedpets.com)
Congressional Leaders Demand FDA Action to Protect Dogs from Poisonous Jerky Treats (poisonedpets.com)
Chicken Jerky Pet Treat Alert (poisonedpets.com)
Update: Thaxton family nightmare after dogs poisoned by jerky treats continues (poisonedpets.com)
A grieving family wants chicken jerky dog treats to be taken off the market. (poisonedpets.com)

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Dog food withdrawn from market after reports of kidney failure and death of dogs - Poisoned Pets

A dog food sold in over 1,300 Mercadona Spanish supermarkets was withdrawn from the market Friday after receiving six reports of dogs becoming gravely ill and suffering from acute renal failure after eating Compy Brand dog food, a private label brand made exclusively for Mercadona by BYNSA a leading private label pet food manufacturer in Europe.

The company ordered a “precautionary recall”, something the manufacturers of chicken jerky treats poisoning dogs in the US would be wise to follow their example. BYNSA has 39% percent of the pet food market in Spain and produces a 100,ooo tons of product a year.

The group made the move, “as a precaution”, after receiving at least six complaints from customers all involving severe kidney damage. The products are now being analysed by its technicians to see if there is a connection between the food and dogs suffering kidney failure.

Pet parents said that after eating the food they noticed, “she was drinking excessive amounts of water and peeing a lot. In addition a Turre vet has confirmed they are dealing with four dogs, all with kidney problems and my own vet is also dealing with other dogs having the same problems. The common factor is they all have the same make of dog food in their diet.”

The Mercadona spokesman Jorge Romero insisted: “At this stage we have only removed the product as a precaution. We have received various calls, six complaints, and it has been removed from shops in Albox, Garrucha and Mojacar. This is not all over Andalucia. Technicians from our suppliers are currently analysing the products in their laboratories. They are also talking to these clients and have issued a help line 900500103 for anyone worried. It will be in both English and Spanish. We will let you know as soon as we have any more news.”

For anxious pet parents in the US, this may lead to an answer as to why their dogs are having similar problems. Concerned pet parents have started awareness campaigns to warn consumers about the Mercadora dog food and have created forums to share information (in English, links below).
Source:
Spanish supermarket dog food link to expat pet deaths in Almeria

Links:
Warning! Mercadona Dog Food Problem Forum
Problem with Mercadona Dog Food: British Expats Forum
BYNSA leads private label pet food in Spain
BYNSA Pet Food

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Walmart, Amazon & Sears Pull “Dead Dog Prop” From Online Listings Amidst Social Media Furor

Customers of Walmart.com, Sears.com and Amazon.com  have taken up social media arms today over an item sold by third-party resellers on each of the three respective sites, resulting in the “Dead Dog Prop” vanishing quickly from listings. [More]

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My friend’s dog has a drug problem. If there are Nyquill gel caps anywhere in the apartment, she will seek them out and snarf down as many as she can. Which leads to said friend panicking and having to call pet poison control, pay $ 65 to discuss what happened and then mix up a dish of hydrogen peroxide and peanut butter per their instructions to make her throw up the meds. It’s not fun, and she’s not alone — a new study says accidental pet poisonings in the U.S. are on the rise. [More]

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I often see canine leavings at the side of the road, and wonder which of my fellow dog owners left them behind. (It certainly isn’t the dog’s fault.) In recent years, homeowners’ associations and apartment complexes have answered this important question by requiring DNA samples from dogs living on the property. When staff find an abandoned pile, they match the DNA it contains to a resident dog, and fine the owner $ 250. [More]

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Following similar bans by smaller municipalities in the U.S. and Canada, the Los Angeles City Council has tentatively adopted a ban on pet stores’ sales of many animals obtained from commercial breeders. [More]

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Two dog owners from different parts of the country have spoken out against United Airlines this week, telling news outlets that the airline broke its promises of pet safety while they took cross-country flights with their dogs in cargo. Both dogs were young: a golden retriever and a Neapolitan Mastiff, each only two years old. [More]

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As we mentioned yesterday, more condo associations are turning to mandatory DNA testing for dogs in an attempt to rein in an apparent rampant poop problem in this country. But one tenant at a complex that is trying such a program says it hasn’t done anything to stop the fecal madness. [More]