Salmonella is a concerning bacteria that can cause serious illness in both humans and dogs. In recent years, there have been several recalls of dog treats due to salmonella contamination. This raises an important question for pet owners: what dog treats have salmonella?
What is Salmonella?
Salmonella is a type of bacteria that can cause an illness called salmonellosis. There are many different strains of salmonella, with Salmonella enteritidis being the most common strain to cause illness.
Salmonella is typically spread through contaminated food or water. If a dog eats something that contains salmonella, such as treats or raw food, they can become infected. Dogs can also pick up salmonella just from sniffing or licking contaminated surfaces.
In dogs, symptoms of salmonella infection include:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Loss of appetite
- Abdominal pain
- Lethargy
While many dogs recover fully with treatment, salmonella can potentially be life-threatening in severe cases. Dehydration is a major risk, especially in puppies, seniors, and dogs with compromised immune systems.
Dogs infected with salmonella can also spread the bacteria to humans through their feces. This is why it’s so important to take contamination risks seriously.
Recent Dog Treat Recalls Due to Salmonella
There have been various dog treat recalls over the years due to salmonella contamination. Here are some of the most recent and notable ones:
January 2023 – Multiple Treats
In January 2023, several recalls were issued after more than 100 dogs were infected with multidrug-resistant salmonella. The recalled treats included:
- Pig ears from Lennox Intl Inc.
- Beef bully sticks from Bailey’s Choice Dog Treats
- Hound & Gatos frozen raw pet food
July 2022 – Milo’s Kitchen Jerky Treats
J.M. Smucker Co. recalled some lots of Milo’s Kitchen chicken and vegetable jerky treats. The recall affected thousands of retail stores nationwide.
January 2022 – Dog Gone Dog Treats
Dog Gone Dog Treats LLC recalled some lots of its chicken chip treats. The treats were sold online and distributed to retail stores in a dozen states.
July 2021 – Pure Vita Salmon Treats
TDBBS LLC recalled one lot code of Pure Vita salmon baked dog treat. Routine testing detected salmonella in the single affected lot.
These are just some of the most high-profile dog treat recalls involving salmonella in the past couple years. There are also many other smaller recalls that fly under the radar.
Dog Treats and Chews at High Risk for Salmonella
Certain types of dog treats and chews appear to be more frequently associated with salmonella recalls and outbreaks. Here are some to be particularly cautious about:
Pig Ears
Pig ears are a very high-risk treat when it comes to salmonella. The 2019 CDC outbreak was linked to contaminated pig ears, which sickened over 150 people. Poor handling, processing and drying of pig ears may contribute to the salmonella risk.
Raw Food Diets
Raw food diets have surged in popularity for dogs in recent years. However, the FDA warns that raw pet food is more likely to be contaminated with pathogens like salmonella compared to cooked food.
Jerky Treats
There have been various recalls of chicken and other jerky treats over salmonella fears. The processing method used to make these dried treats may allow salmonella to survive.
Bully Sticks
Bully sticks are made from bull penis and are a common tough chew for dogs. However, they present a risk for contamination during processing and shipping from overseas.
Animal Parts
Treats like pizzles, ears, gullets, snouts and other animal part chews can pose a salmonella risk. Their natural texture makes thorough cooking and handling difficult.
Safe Dog Treats and Chews
While no dog treat is guaranteed 100% salmonella-free, some options are generally safer. Here are some low-risk treats to consider:
Hard Baked Treats
Crackers, biscuits and other thoroughly baked, dry treats are less prone to contamination. The high heat kills pathogens during processing.
Freeze-Dried Treats
Freeze drying helps create crunchy treats while preserving nutrients. The freeze drying process helps eliminate bacteria like salmonella.
Fruit and Vegetable Chews
Chews made from fruits or vegetables provide a safer alternative to animal-derived chews. Proper sanitation of the produce is still important.
Peanut Butter
One ingredients treats, like pure peanut butter squeezed into a Kong, remove the risk of contamination during manufacturing. Refrigerate after opening.
Food Toppers
Sprinkling small bits of real food, like cooked chicken breast, on your dog’s meal is safer than pre-made treats. Maintain good hygiene when preparing.
Tips for Buying Safe Dog Treats
Follow these tips when selecting treats and chews for your dog:
- Avoid purchasing pig ears, raw diets or exotic animal parts.
- Check manufacturer websites for any recalls before buying.
- Call companies to ask about their safety standards and testing.
- Read all labels carefully and avoid treats made outside the US.
- Refrigerate treats after opening and monitor for spoilage.
- Wash hands and disinfect surfaces after handling treats.
What to Do if Your Dog May Have Salmonella
If your dog becomes ill after eating treats or you are concerned about possible contamination, take the following steps:
- Stop giving the suspect treats immediately.
- Save any unused treats and packaging for testing.
- Call your vet and let them know about the possible salmonella exposure.
- Have your dog evaluated for signs of salmonellosis.
- Monitor yourself and family members for potential infection too.
- Report any issues to the FDA.
Prompt veterinary treatment and stopping exposure can help dogs recover faster in cases of salmonella poisoning.
Conclusion
Salmonella contamination is an ongoing concern with certain dog treats, chews and raw food diets. Pig ears, bully sticks, jerky and exotic animal parts are among the highest risk options. Thoroughly baked or freeze-dried treats tend to be safer choices.
Check for recalls, read labels and handle treats carefully. If your dog becomes ill after eating treats, save samples and contact your vet right away. Being an informed pet owner is key to keeping our dogs safe from salmonella and other contaminants lurking in some dog treats.