Dog Food Recalled For Salmonella; Health Alert Issued

The Ohio Department of Agriculture is issuing a health alert urging consumers to use caution when handling pet foods.

On April 10, Diamond Pet Food issued a recall for a limited number of dry dog food bags.

Thursday, that recall was expanded to include certain lots of its Chicken Soup for the Pet Lover's Soul dog food.

Laboratory analysis completed by ODA's Consumer Protection Laboratory showed the pet food tested positive for salmonella contamination. 

"People typically contract a Salmonella infection by ingesting food or water that has been contaminated," said Dr. Beverly Byrum, ODA Laboratory Director. "In this case, however, an infection can occur by putting objects or fingers that have touched a contaminated product, such as pet food, into the mouth or by touching a pet or, in extreme cases, a person, that is infected."

Pets that have eaten food contaminated with salmonella may also become ill.

Signs of an infection in a pet include decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain.

If left untreated, pets may also become lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever and may vomit.

If your pet is exhibiting any of these signs, contact your veterinarian.

"It is important to note that healthy pets can also be carriers of salmonella, even if they are not exhibiting signs of illness, and they can still infect other animals or humans," said Dr. Byrum.

Consumers who believe their pet has consumed the recalled product should limit contact with the animal by humans and other animals, and be sure to thoroughly wash any hands or objects that come in contact with the animal.

Pet owners, who are unsure if the product they purchased is included in the recall, or who would like replacement product or a refund, should contact Diamond Pet Foods at 800-442-0402, or by visiting www.chickensoupforthepetloverssoul.com/information.