Mars Petcare announces voluntary recall of Pedigree, other brands

On September 12, Mars Petcare, manufacturer of Pedigree, Ol’ Roy, and numerous other pet food lines, announce a voluntary recall of products manufactured at a Pennsylvania facility.  Production at the facility was stopped in late July when Mars was alerted to a possible link between the dry pet food and two isolated cases of Salmonellosis in humans. For a full list of recalled products, visit the manufacturer’s website.

It’s important to note that this is a voluntary recall and that, to date, no illnesses have been reported in pets. Pets infected with Salmonella generally demonstrate signs of gastrointestinal illness such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea. Some pets will have only decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. Animals can be carriers with no visible symptoms and can potentially infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact Priority Pet Hospital to have your pet evaluated.

Safe pet food handling and good personal hygiene can help reduce the risk of spreading Salmonella from pets or pet foods and bowls to family members. People who become infected with Salmonella may experience nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. On rare occasions, Salmonella can result in more serious illness, including disorders of the blood vessels and heart, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, and urinary tract symptoms. Pet owners exhibiting symptoms after having contact with any of the recalled products should contact their healthcare providers.

Rest assured that the vast majority of commercially-available pet foods are safe for both your pets and your family. If you have any questions about your pets’ diet or other aspects of pet care and wellness, please don’t hesitate to call Priority Pet Hospital.