Merrick Pet Food Recall Extended for Texas Hold'Ems Pet Treats

Back on July 2, 2010 Merrick Pet Foods made their first recall of their Beef Filet Squares (Texas Hold'Ems) pet treats. Now, again in August, they have issued another recall of 83 more cases of the same product. Their mission statement is "Comfort for the Soul". They are a family owned business. They sell dry dog food, canned dog and cat food, and dog chews and treats.

In July the recall affected the 10 oz Beef Filet Squares for Dogs pet treat ITEM # 60016 LOT # 10084TL7 BEST BY MARCH 24, 2012, and again in August an additional 83 cases of ITEM # 60016 LOT # 10127 BEST BY MAY 6, 2012. The treats come in a 10 ounce bag. The lot number and the best by date is on the top of the bag. There is also a sticker located on the bottom of the bag.

The recall was because of a suspected Salmonella contamination. Humans handling the treats could be subject to infection from Salmonella. Not only can humans become infected from Salmonella, but of course, pets also can get Salmonella if they eat the contaminated food. Hand washing is a way to avoid spreading the infection to other humans. A confirmation of a Salmonella infection is done through testing, such as: stool test, blood test, or spinal fluid tests.

Salmonella symptoms usually begin about 24 hours after exposure. Signs of Salmonella in pets would be diarrhea, lack of appetite, listlessness, fever, and vomiting. If your pet exhibits any of these symptoms after eating one of the recalled products, contact your veterinarian. Your veterinarian can further instruct you on the care of your pet and how to prevent further spreading of the infection. There have been no reported cases of Salmonella, but a sample of the product was tested and showed positive for Salmonella. Seemingly healthy animals who have ingested the pet treats can be carriers of salmonella.

If you have any of the recalled product, you need to return the unused portion to the place where you purchased the product for a complete refund. If you have any questions about the recall you can contact Merrick Pet Foods at 1-800-664-7387 M-F 8:00 - 5:00 CDT

Sources:

http://www.foodsafetynews.com/2010/08/more-merrick-pet-food-recalled-for-salmonella-danger/

http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm221198.htm

http://www.avma.org/petfoodsafety/recalls/2010/merrick_100702.asp