MEDICAL ALERTS & SAFETY INFORMATION FOR YOUR PETS
(3/16/07) DOG AND CAT PET FOOD RECALL AFTER KIDNEY FAILURE AND DEATHS OF CATS AND DOGS! PLEASE GO TO THIS WEBSITE TO DETERMINE IF YOU'VE BOUGHT ANY OF THE PET FOODS ON THE LIST: www.menufoods.com/recall/PEANUT BUTTER AND CAT FOOD RECALL FOR SALMONELLA POISONING (2/23/07)
XYLITOL EVEN IN SMALL AMOUNTS CAN BE DANGEROUS TO PETS! (8/25/06)
MORE ASPCA BIRD POISON PREVENTION TIPS
KEEP TWEETY SAFE WITH BIRD POISON PREVENTION TIPS (8/4/06)
According to statistics compiled by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC), more than 525 instances of pet birds being exposed to potentially dangerous common household items were reported last year. As the majority of companion avians have limited activity outside their cages, poisonings are not common. But birds with free household access are at potential risk of exposure to toxicants. Our experts at the APCC offer the following poison prevention tips to keep your companion avian in the “sing” of things:
* Birds are highly sensitive to inhalant fumes, so please avoid exposing yours to fumes from self-cleaning ovens and overheated cookware, automobile exhaust, tobacco smoke, glues and paints, insecticidal fumigants, perfume and hair spray.
* Keep all prescription and over-the-counter drugs out of beak's reach, preferably in closed cabinets. Pain killers, cold medicines, anticancer drugs, vitamins and diet pills are all examples of human medications that can be lethal to birds, even in small amounts.
* Never allow your bird access to areas in which cleaning agents are being used or stored. Should your pet ingest them, he could suffer from a range of symptoms, depending on the substance, from mild stomach upset to severe burns of the tongue, mouth and crop.
* Foods and beverages that could be dangerous to birds include:
- avocados
- chocolate in any form
- coffee & tea
- moldy or spoiled foods
- onions & garlic
- tomato leaves and stems
- yeast doughIf you suspect your bird has gotten into a potentially poisonous substance, call your veterinarian or the APCC's emergency hotline—(888) 426-4435—for round- the-clock telephone assistance. For additional bird safety tips, please visit ASPCA online
"HIDDEN" DANGERS IN THE MOTEL ROOM
6/22/06(A member of the Dachshund community experienced this almost tragic nightmare. She has give permission to cross post in order to remind others of dangers lurking in hotel rooms.)
I'm putting out a warning to all who bring their dogs into hotel rooms. CHECK for poison!!!! My friend and I were staying at a Quality Inn this past weekend for the Fort Dodge, IA shows. Friday night I was sitting on the floor playing with my 12 wk old puppies, 2 adult Dachshunds, 1 Toller and my friend's Parson. I was ON THE FLOOR playing with all of them throwing toys, etc for about 20 mins or so (that's all the longer the puppies can be loose without pottying). This was right before bed. Saturday at the show, Cindy was talking to an acquaintance who was staying at the same motel and mentioned that her dog had found a box of rat poison in the room. As soon as we got back to the room we checked into it. Sure enough, we found an empty container of rat poison under the bed. It had definite dog chew marks, evidence of licks inside of it and dog hair on it. We called the number listed on the box, the hotel manager and the vet listed in the premium list. The maker of the poison told us the chemical name and antidote (Vit K). The vet listed hadn't even been notified by the show committee that they were putting his name down for emergencies. He did give us the name of a local vet that provided emergency services. We hauled all exposed dogs in for treatment. They all got Vit K injections and will have to continue treatment for at least the next 30 days. The poison is a long acting blood thinner, unlike Warfarin which is short acting 5-7 days. I would like to stress that these dogs were not left unattended. I was sitting on the floor playing with them and did not see them get into anything. The motel was listed in the premium as accepting dogs. We were not told a thing about rat poison in the room. The show committee never checked to see if the vet they listed was indeed going to be available.
When I make my reservations I will ask if they routinely place rat or mouse poison in the rooms. I have confirmed via poop examination that 3 of my dogs have eaten a large amount of the poison.
The hotel was not apologetic. We gave them the choice of paying our Vet bill or giving us the room free. The vet bills were around $215.00 the Motel was $150.00 or so. They chose to give us the room. It's not over yet as this was a Quality Inn chain. I intend to take it farther to help other unsuspecting dogs owners who "assume" their dogs are safe in their motel room while they are right there with them. Also my dogs are not out of the woods yet. At least 3 of them received a very large dose of poison - 2 adult Dachshunds, and my Toller. - Pam Bethke
CAN YOUR CAT CATCH BIRD FLU? CLICK HERE FOR ANSWERS:
ASPCA Q&A ABOUT BIRD FLU AND CATS
DOG OWNERS - BEWARE OF COCOA MULCH!
4/12/06 (taken from e-mail from LM of New Mexico)Yesterday one of our dog agility friends experienced a tragedy and wanted me to pass a special message along to all of my dog loving friends and family. Please tell dog owners you know.
Over the weekend the doting owner of two young lab mixes purchased Cocoa Mulch from Target to use in their garden. They loved the way it smelled and it was advertised to keep cats away from their garden. Their dog Calypso, decided that the mulch smelled good enough to eat and devoured a large helping. She vomited a few times which was typical when she eats something new but wasn't acting lethargic in any way. The next day, Mom woke up and took Calypso out for her morning walk. Half way through the walk, she had a seizure and died instantly.
Although the mulch had NO warnings printed on the label, upon further investigation on the company?s website, this product is HIGHLY toxic to dogs.
Cocoa Mulch is manufactured by Hershey's, and they claim that "It is true that studies have shown that 50% of the dogs that eat Cocoa Mulch can suffer physical harm to a variety of degrees (depending on each individual dog). However, 98% of all dogs won't eat it."
True information about the mulch can be found here - www.snopes.com/critters/crusader/cocoa.htm This site gives the following information:
Cocoa Mulch, which is sold by Home Depot, Foreman's Garden Supply and other Garden supply stores, contains a lethal ingredient called "Theobromine".
It is lethal to dogs and cats. It smells like chocolate and it really attracts dogs. They will ingest this stuff and die. Several deaths already occurred in the last 2-3 weeks. Just a word of caution ? Check what you are using in your gardens and be aware of what your gardeners are using in your gardens.
Theobromine is the ingredient that is used to make all chocolate especially dark or baker's chocolate, which is toxic to dogs.
Cocoa bean shells contain potentially toxic quantities of theobromine, a xanthine compound similar in effects to caffeine and theophylline. A dog that ingested a lethal quantity of garden mulch made from cacao bean shells developed severe convulsions and died 17 hours later. Analysis of the stomach contents and the ingested cacao bean shells revealed the presence of lethal amounts of theobromine.
Please email the manufacturer at michellemessick@hersheys.com and request that accurate information about this product be posted on the packaging to avoid further tragedy.
TEN MOST COMMON POISONOUS PLANTS (from Animal Poison Control Center)Marijuana
Ingestion of Cannabis sativa by companion animals can result in depression of the central nervous system and incoordination, as well as vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, increased heart rate, and even seizures and coma.Sago Palm
All parts of Cycas Revoluta are poisonous, but the seeds or “nuts” contain the largest amount of toxin. The ingestion of just one or two seeds can result in very serious effects, which include vomiting, diarrhea, depression, seizures and liver failure.Lilies
Members of the Lilium spp. are considered to be highly toxic to cats. While the poisonous component has not yet been identified, it is clear that with even ingestions of very small amounts of the plant, severe kidney damage could result.Tulip/Narcissus bulbs
The bulb portions of Tulipa/Narcissus spp. contain toxins that can cause intense gastrointestinal irritation, drooling, loss of appetite, depression of the central nervous system, convulsions and cardiac abnormalities.Azalea/Rhododendron
Members of the Rhododenron spp. contain substances known as grayantoxins, which can produce vomiting, drooling, diarrhea, weakness and depression of the central nervous system in animals. Severe azalea poisoning could ultimately lead to coma and death from cardiovascular collapse.Oleander
All parts of Nerium oleander are considered to be toxic, as they contain cardiac glycosides that have the potential to cause serious effects-including gastrointestinal tract irritation, abnormal heart function, hypothermia and even death.Castor Bean
The poisonous principle in Ricinus communis is ricin, a highly toxic protein that can produce severe abdominal pain, drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, excessive thirst, weakness and loss of appetite. Severe cases of poisoning can result in dehydration, muscle twitching, tremors, seizures, coma and death.Cyclamen
Cylamen species contain cyclamine, but the highest concentration of this toxic component is typically located in the root portion of the plant. If consumed, Cylamen can produce significant gastrointestinal irritation, including intense vomiting. Fatalities have also been reported in some cases.Kalanchoe
This plant contains components that can produce gastrointestinal irritation, as well as those that are toxic to the heart, and can seriously affect cardiac rhythm and rate.Yew
Taxus spp. contains a toxic component known as taxine, which causes central nervous system effects such as trembling, incoordination, and difficulty breathing. It can also cause significant gastrointestinal irritation and cardiac failure, which can result in death.Go to aspca.org for more information.
DIAMOND PET FOOD RECALL MAY EXTEND TO COSCO AND CHICKEN SOUP BRANDS
1/4/06 (from ANIMAL HELP)Despite claims that the brands below are the only brands affected, We have received feedback from pet owners who have recently fed both Cosco "Kirkland" brand pet foods and Chicken Soup Brand Dog Food, whose pets have exhibited the same symptoms as noted with Diamond Brands and the aflatoxin contamination.
Please be aware that while these animals had all the same symptoms of aflatoxin illness the test results have not been completed yet and it will be a short time before we know for sure whether their deaths were caused by the food. There are other illnesses and diseases that cause liver failure and may be to blame. But because the foods these animals were eating are all made by Diamond, and the symptoms are the same, we want to warn you to be on the lookout for similar illness in your animals until we know for sure.
Sadly, a 2 year old Skye Terrier died Monday January 2nd, 2006. He was eating Chicken Soup brand food and displayed the symptoms of aflatoxin illness before he died. The other dogs in this household are also sick. Liver profiles, toxicology screenings and pathology results are pending.
Also, a cat death has occured on Tuesday January 3rd, 2006 in upstate SC. This cat was eating Cosco brand cat food and displayed the symptoms of aflatoxin illness. Pathology results are pending on this cat. We know of one other cat who almost died from the same symptoms of aflatoxin illness and also was being fed Cosco brand cat food.
Cosco's Kirkland Brand pet foods are made by Schell & Kampeter , who also make the Diamond Products. Chicken Soup is considered one of their super premium food, and they also make Nutra Nuggets. Cosco Kirkland is made at one or more of the Diamond plants.
If you feed your pet Cosco brands - or ANY other pet food brands (it is possible that other store brands are made at Diamond plants) - and see illness and symptoms as mentioned here, we urge you to get your pet to your veterinarian immediately for a liver profile.
We expect the Chicken Soup brands and the Cosco brands will be added to the official recall very soon if the test results from these two recent deaths provide proof that cause of death resulted from ingestion of aflatoxin in the food. We will keep you up to date if any changes are announced.
Because of testing conducted by officials in North Carolina, Diamond Pet Foods has added Diamond Professional for Adult Dogs to the list of recalled products manufactured in our Gaston, S.C. facility and distributed in the eastern U.S.
The product, Diamond Professional for Adult Dogs, contains a "Best By" date of January 29, 2007.
Testing performed by the North Carolina agriculture department showed a single bag of the product contained high levels of aflatoxin. The product was discontinued in August of this year.
According to Mark Brinkmann, chief operations officer for Diamond Pet Foods, the company will continue working closely with state officials and will not hesitate to take action if testing warrants.
Customers should return any unused product to their retailers and should consult their veterinarian if pets show any signs of illness. Complete information can be found at http://www.diamondpet.com"www.diamondpet.com, or by calling the Diamond Pet Foods Customer Information Center toll-free at 1-866-214-6945.
What products are being recalled?
Recalled products can be identified by the Date Code and "Best By" dates listed on the back panel of the package. Recalled products will have a capital "G" (in reference to Gaston) in the 11th or 12th position of the date code (18 lb. to 55 lb. bags), and "Best By" dates between March 1, 2007 and June 10, 2007. The capital "G" will be in the 9th position on smaller 4 lb. to 8 lb. bags.Diamond's quantitative analysis records substantiate that shipments were definitively clear of aflatoxin after December 10. As such, "Best By 11-June-07" date codes or later are not affected. Also, products with "Best By" dates prior to 28-Feb-07 are safe.
Products manufactured at our Gaston S.C. facility included in the recall:
Diamond Premium Adult Dog Food
Diamond Hi-Energy Dog Food
Diamond Maintenance Dog Food
Diamond Professional for Adult Dogs
Diamond Performance Dog Food
Diamond Puppy Food
Diamond Low Fat Dog Food
Diamond Maintenance Cat Food
Diamond Professional Cat Food
Country Value Puppy
Country Value Adult Dog Food
Country Value High Energy Dog Food
Country Value Adult Cat Food
Professional Chicken & Rice Adult Dog Food
Professional Puppy Food
Professional Large-Breed Puppy Food
Professional Reduced Fat Cat Food
Professional Adult Cat FoodWhat products are NOT included in the recall?
Although certain pet foods produced at the Gaston facility have been voluntarily recalled due to potential aflatoxin contamination, a wide range of the plant's products are perfectly safe and still can be purchased from retailer.Gaston products not part of the recall include:
All Premium Edge products
The complete Chicken Soup product lines***
Diamond Lamb and Rice Adult
Diamond Large Breed Adult 60+
Diamond Large Breed Puppy (Lamb & Rice Puppy)
Diamond Senior 8+
Diamond Kitten
Professional Lamb and Rice
Professional Reduced Fat Chicken & Rice Dog FoodWhat states receive products from the Gaston facility?
The Gaston facility provides products to our customers in Alabama, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan*, Mississippi, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio*, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee*, Vermont, Virginia and West Virginia.
*These states receive product from other Diamond Pet Food facilities. Please check your date code carefully. Unless it has a capital "G" in the 11th or 12th position of the date code on the larger 15 lb. to 55 lb. bags, it is not included in the recall. The capital "G" will be in the 9th position on smaller 4 lb. to 8 lb. bags.Are products manufactured at other Diamond facilities affected by this situation?
No. Products manufactured at our Gaston facility are the only ones subject to the recall.What clinical signs should I look for from my pet?
Symptoms of potential illness in dogs may be difficult to discern, but include:
Loss of appetite
Yellow whites of the eyes, yellow gums, yellow in the belly or areas where hair is very thin
Severe, persistent vomiting combined with bloody diarrhea
Discolored urine
FeverPlease be aware that many other medical conditions have similar symptoms. Your veterinarian will be able to distinguish between these other conditions and an exposure to aflatoxin based on your pet's medical history and current symptoms. Please consult with your veterinarian if you believe your pet is ill, no matter what the cause. If your veterinarian diagnoses and treats your pet because of exposure to aflatoxin, please have your veterinarian contact Diamond Pet Foods toll free at 1-866-214-6945.
What should I do if my pet consumed recalled products and has any of the clinical signs?
If your pet has consumed products included in the recall and exhibits these systems, please urge your veterinarian to run a liver profile. If your pet is found to have abnormal liver function, please have any other dog you may own that was fed the same food tested for liver function as well. Even if your pet does not show symptoms, monitor it for 7 to 12 days and consult your veterinarian if illness develops If possible, please save 1-2 cups of the food for testing and analysisWhen should I take my pet to the veterinarian?
If your dog has consumed affected products and has clinical signs of aflatoxin, which include loss of appetite, yellow whites of the eyes, yellow gums, yellow in the belly or areas where hair is very thin, severe, persistent vomiting combined with bloody diarrhea, or discolored urine, you should immediately consult your veterinarianBecause numerous diseases and conditions may have similar clinical signs, your pet could have a problem other than aflatoxin. If your veterinarian institutes treatment for aflatoxin, please have him or her call Diamond Pet Foods toll free at 1-866-214-6945 and ask to speak with one of our consulting veterinarians.
How can I get a refund?
If your product has been recalled, please take the bag and any remaining product back to the retailer where it was purchased for a full refund. Your retailer will ensure the product is returned to Diamond Pet Food for proper analysis and disposal. Many retailers may offer to replace the product. Please consult your retailer for specific refund or replacement options.What is Aflatoxin?
Aflatoxin is a naturally occurring toxic chemical by-product from the growth of the fungus Aspergillus flavus, on corn and other crops. The fungus develops on crops during years with severe high temperature stress and drought.Diamond's quantitative analysis records substantiate that Diamond's corn shipments were definitively clear of aflatoxin after December 10. As such, "Best By 11-June-07" date codes or later are not affected.
FDA Investigation of Diamond: Pet Food Finds Some Product Exported
In its continuing investigation of the contamination of pet food manufactured at Diamond Pet Food's Gaston , SC , facility, the Food and Drug Administration has found that some of the product subject to a company recall had been exported to at least 29 countries, including countries within the European Union.
Diamond Pet Foods is recalling certain lots of pet food made at the plant earlier this year after the discovery that some of the products were contaminated with aflatoxin, a toxin created by the fungus Aspergillus flavus. The company has notified distributors and asked them to hold recalled products. (More information about the recall, including the specific products covered, is available at http://www.fda.gov/oc/po/firmrecalls/diamond12_05.html"www.fda.gov/oc/po/fi rmrecalls/diamond12_05.html.)
FDA's Office of International Programs has notified the countries that received the product about the recall.
23 DOGS DEAD, 18 ILL FROM TAINTED DOG FOOD
By ELISABETH GOODRIDGE
The Associated Press
December 30, 2005WASHINGTON -- Contaminated dog food which was sold in 23 states killed nearly two dozen dogs and sickened 18 more, the Food and Drug Administration said Friday.
The deaths and illnesses sparked an FDA investigation into the pet food made by the Diamond Pet Food Company at its Gaston, S.C., manufacturing plant. The FDA said so far 23 animal deaths have been linked to the pet food.
The company, based in Meta, Mo., issued a recall of 19 varieties of dog and cat food on Dec. 21 because some of the pet food made at the Gaston facility was discovered to contain aflatoxin.
Aflatoxin, a naturally occurring chemical that comes from a fungus sometimes found on corn and other crops, can cause severe liver damage. Aflatoxin poisoning can cause sluggishness, a lack of appetite and in severe cases severe vomiting, fever and jaundice.
The recalled pet food was sold in 23 states under the brand names Diamond, Country Value and Professional, and bears the date codes of March 1, 2007, through June 11, 2007. Consumers are asked to immediately stop using the product.
Last week, Tony Caver, the state veterinarian in South Carolina, said that state has five presumed cases linked to aflatoxin, including three fatalities.
Seven dogs from the Rochester, N.Y., area were being treated at Cornell University Hospital for Animals for liver disease and failure after eating contaminated f ood, said university spokeswoman Sabina Lee. An area veterinarian discovered the link after three dogs died in the area, she said.
In a Dec. 20 press release, the company said it had notified distributors to hold up the further sale of Diamond pet food that had used corn. The next day it ordered the recall.
"To ensure we got all the affected product or potential to be affected, we cast a very wide net with the recall," Diamond spokesman Jim Fallon said Friday. He said the company is conducting tests and has set up a consumer information center, open seven days a week, to handle consumer questions.
"We are working with customers and their vets to confirm a link between the pet food and the pet's illnesses," he said. "Our whole focus is saving pets' lives and doing the right thing."
The company said it was analyzing retained samples of all of the affected pet food products in Gaston in an attempt to isolate specific lot numbers that were impacted and provide the information to distributors, retailers and customers.
According to the company, the pet food was distributed to stores in Alabama, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mississippi, Michigan, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, West Virginia, Vermont, and Virginia.
The FDA said some of the recalled product had been exported to at least 29 countries, including several in the European Union. Those countries have been notified, the agency said.
On the Net:
Food and Drug Administration
Diamond Pet Food: Diamond Pet FoodMANUFACTURER OF PET TREAT "GREENIES" SUED OVER DOG'S DEATH
December 6, 2005The popular dog treat sold under the name "Greenies" is the subject of a lawsuit filed November 30, 2005, with the Supreme Court of the State of New York. The complaint contends that the product, manufactured by Missouri-based S&M NuTec, is unsafe, inadequately labeled, and ultimately caused the death of the plaintiff's 4-year old dog, named Burt.
S&M NuTec has made claims that Greenies are "highly digestible," and the product comes with packaging statements such as "100% edible" and "veterinarian approved!" Given these claims, the plaintiffs were stunned by the cause of death of their family member Burt, a rescued Miniature Dachshund. Burt died this summer after an undigested portion of a Greenies dog treat became lodged in his intestinal tract. In an attempt to save his life, Burt underwent emergency surgery that resulted in the removal of over 3 feet of dead intestinal tissue along with the cause of the obstruction: an undigested piece of a Greenie. Despite the necessary surgical procedure, Burt died 48 hours after the surgery with the plaintiff's, Ms. Jennifer Reiff and Mr. Michael Eastwood, by his side.
Billed by S&M NuTec, as a way to "promote healthy teeth and gums," Greenies are an enormously popular dog treat sold by most pet supply stores. The plaintiff's have prepared the following statement:
"Our dog didn't choke to death on the product. He died from it not digesting and obstructing his intestines. We followed their instructions. Burt was always supervised and he always chewed his Greenies well. Yet he died a painful, horrible death. We believe that S&M NuTec chooses to blame the dogs or their owners instead of taking responsibility. Many owners have come forward and shared their similar experiences, leading us to believe that the company is very much aware of the problem."
Ms. Reiff and Mr. Eastwood allege the "benefits" of Greenies do not outweigh the risks associated with the product. The indigestibility of Greenies is a defect, and had the manufacturer adequately warned of its dangers, the couple would not have provided the treat to Burt, thereby avoiding the cause of his death.
Their attorney, Alan Sash, partner at New York law firm McLaughlin Stern, represents the plaintiffs. The lawsuit seeks damages to be determined at trial for each of the 4 Causes of Action which include: Design Defect and Failure to Warn (Strict Products Liability), Breach of Express Warranty, Negligence and punitive damages in excess of 5 million dollars.
Please visit www.burtscause.com to download a PDF of the filed complaint and other relevant information. For more information, contact The Romeo Group, Inc., at 212-362-5930, or contact the law firm of McLaughlin Stern, 212-448-1100
CANINE VIRUS SCARE: RACING GREYHOUNDS BELIEVED TO BE SOURCE
October 2005Word of a mutating strain of respiratory disease in dogs has kept the media busy in recent months. When the story attracted the attention of The New York Times, the news began to spread as quickly as the virus is said to have. Reported to have originated in greyhound racing kennels in Florida, the virus has been traced to a strain which has infected horses for decades.
Greyhound Network News (GNN), the publication which exclusively covers news regarding racing greyhounds worldwide has been covering this story for years. Joan Eidinger, publisher and editor of GNN has been diligently keeping an eye on this story. GNN reported in the Spring 2003 issue that the deadly epidemic had spread from Florida across the U.S. M
Concerns of how the disease was transmitted from horses to dogs have created speculation, but the most credible theory at this time was suggested by Susan Netboy of the Greyhound Protection League, a national greyhound advocacy group. Susan, a pioneer in exposing the inhumane conditions under which racing greyhounds live - and die - has long suspected the tainted meat fed to racers as the source for many ailments these dogs suffer. Raw meat, often contaminated with various bacteria and determined unfit for human consumption, is the main diet of a racing greyhound. The animal source for the meat can often not be positively identified and it is not unrealistic to presume meat from sick horses has been introduced into the food supply for racing greyhounds.
Initially thought to have been contained primarily to the east coast, the canine flu virus was soon discovered to exist in kennels as far west as CO and AZ. Each year, for at least the past three years, there has been a mandatory quarantine at racetracks in an effort to quell a nationwide epidemic. And each year, the disease spreads from east to west as greyhounds are transported from track to track prior to the quarantine being enforced.
Not just a greyhound disease, this virus can be contracted by any dog exposed to the virile pathogen. Experts believe that humans coming into contact with infected dogs can spread the disease to other dogs. If indeed this virus originated in racing greyhounds, its transfer to other dogs could have easily occurred through trainers and other racetrack staff touching infected greyhounds and then passing the virus along to their pets at home. Once an infected animal is introduced to a large population of dogs (as in a boarding kennel or animal shelter), especially if stress is a factor, as is often the case in facilities housing numerous dogs, other dogs can easily become ill.
Resembling common kennel cough in its initial stages, the illness will not produce severe symptoms in all dogs infected. The higher the stress level in the dog’s environment and the weaker the immune system, the more likely the disease will become a serious threat to the dog’s health. Greyhound racing kennels are notorious for stress-inducing stimuli. Overcrowded and often unclean, these kennels are perfect environments for the rapid spread of disease. Because many trainers continue to train and race dogs which have already contracted the virus, the immune system is compromised and vulnerable to illness. This practice has been responsible for the deaths of unknown, but likely high, numbers of racers from the respiratory virus, and other illnesses, as well.
At present, aggressive research is being conducted by virologists and immunologists who’ve created a team from Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Currently, there is no vaccine for the virus. The Bordetella vaccine for kennel cough is ineffective in preventing this disease. Experts say an anti-viral drug used to treat flu in humans, Tamiflu, is likely to be effective in treating dogs for this new strain of canine flu, however its high demand this year for humans will decrease the possibility it will be available for dogs.
Word of this insidious virus has people wondering what they are to do should they suspect their dog is infected. It’s this simple: If your dog is coughing, get it to a veterinarian. Be sure your veterinarian is aware of this new canine virus, and knows what to look for. Nasal discharge, wet cough, high white cell count and high temperatures are all markers of this disease, where they are not for common kennel cough. Symptoms usually appear within a week of exposure to the virus. Although there is no currently approved treatment for the virus, antibiotics to control secondary infections should be administered. Keep your dog in a calm, quiet environment to decrease stressors during recovery.
As for reports of this disease being transmitted from dogs to humans, there is absolutely no evidence at this time to suggest this has occurred - yet.
FELINE HEALTH ALERT: MINOXIDIL CAN BE TOXIC TO CATS
August 2005Topical solutions containing minoxidil, used to promote hair growth in humans, have become increasingly popular in recent years. But did you know that these products pose potentially serious health risks to our feline companions? Since 2001, six cases involving minoxidil exposure in cats were reported to the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC). These included cases of intentional applications to areas on the animals’ bodies that had lost fur, as well as accidental exposures via licking or walking through the solution. Of these cases, four of the cats died, while two fully recovered after prompt and aggressive veterinary treatment. Says Dr. Sharon Gwaltney-Brant, APCC medical director and veterinary toxicologist, “Pet owners need to be aware that even minimal amounts of minoxidil can result in a serious or even fatal situation.”
According to APCC data, exposure to minoxidil can result in lethargy, a severe drop in blood pressure, accumulation of fluid in the lungs and damage to the heart muscle, which can result in death from cardiac failure. “Lethargy and a drop in blood pressure typically develop within about 12 hours,” says Gwaltney-Brant, “and the cardiac effects generally occur three to four days following the exposure if treatment is not sought quickly. While the possibility of clinical problems exists for dogs and other animals, cats may be especially sensitive because they lack a specific enzyme necessary for breaking this drug down in their bodies.”
APCC experts offer the following tips to avoid the potential for problems:
- Never apply minoxidil products to your pets.
- Human application of the solution should occur in a room that is not accessible to pets; do not allow pets to lick treated areas.
- Clean up any spills thoroughly and promptly.If you suspect that your cat has come into contact with a minoxidil-containing preparation, immediately contact your veterinarian or the APCC’s 24-hour emergency hotline at (888) 426-4435. For more pet poison prevention tips, go to: ASPCA's Poison Control Center.
PET HEALTH ALERT: PAINTBALL’S NO FUN FOR DOGS
July 2005In today’s active society, outdoor games are growing increasingly popular. That includes paintball, a sport similar to “Capture the Flag” in which participants shoot opposing team members with pellets of paint. But did you know that these paint-filled pellets can be harmful to dogs if ingested?
The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) has seen an increase in the number of paintball-related cases every year since 2001. In 2004 alone, APCC experts handled more than a hundred. “Paintballs typically consist of ingredients such as polyethylene or dipropylene glycol, glycerin, sorbitol, mineral oil, dye, water and ground pig skin, and can come in packages of 1,500 or more,” explains Dr. Steven Hansen, APCC Senior Vice President. “It is not uncommon to see ingestions involving large quantities of pellets.”
While it is not clear why dogs eat so many, or just how many can produce illness, clinical signs have occurred in dogs consuming as few as ten pellets. The most common signs include vomiting, diarrhea and muscle tremors, as well as weakness, fever, elevated heart rate, blindness, seizures and, in severe cases, death. In one case, a ten-month-old, 45-pound boxer died after eating more than 350 paintballs.
“Companion animal guardians should be aware of the potential risks,” says Hansen, “and take precautions. Do not allow your pets to accompany you during paintball games, and store pellets in areas where animals cannot reach them.” For more pet poison information, please visit the ASPCA online www.aspca.org/site/R?i=ORq9fXdD5eA_0bFAsZcuXw.. .
HARTZ TO PULL PRODUCTS FOLLOWING PET DEATHS
Products to Be Re-Labeled Immediately
June 8, 2005Hartz Mountain Corp. www.hartz.com/index.asp?fp=1" will stop production of several flea and tick products that may have caused numerous deaths in cats and kittens, Houston television station KPRC reported.
The change includes the following pet product brand names:
Hartz Advanced Care 4 in 1 Flea & Tick Drops Plus+ for Cats and Kittens
Hartz Advanced Care Brand Flea and Tick Drops Plus+ for Cats and Kittens
Hartz Advanced Care 3 in 1 Flea & Tick Drops for Cats and Kittens
Hartz Advanced Care Once-A-Month Flea and Tick Drops for Cats and KittensHartz agreed to relabel and then stop production at the insistence of the US Environmental Protection Agency, the agency said. In the short term, the agreement calls for immediate relabeling of the products. The new labeling will state that the products are not to be used on the most vulnerable animals, including cats and kittens that weigh less than 6 pounds, cats older than 13 years, or kittens less than 5 months old.
Hartz will stop all new production of the cat and kitten products by Sept. 30, 2005, and not sell or distribute any affected product after Dec. 31, 2005.
"EPA is taking this action because there are safety concerns with these products," said Susan B. Hazen, principal deputy assistant administrator at EPA. "Pet owners should be alerted to these concerns, and may choose to transition to alternative products. We take seriously our obligation to ensure that pesticide products, when used as labeled, are safe." The company agreed to a prohibition on any remaining retail sales by March 31, 2006. This orderly transition allows consumers and distributors to move to alternatives flea and tick products and will be strictly monitored. Hartz will also be notifying its distributors and retailers of the changes in order to ensure a workable phase out.
For the history of the ongoing Hartz flea and tick products problem, see the next entry and/or go to: www.epa.gov/pesticides/ factsheets/flea-tick-drops.htm
HARTZ CATS AND KITTENS FLEA AND TICK PRODUCTS WARNING FROM 2002
Pesticides Recalled After Killing Cats
December 2, 2002Thousands of illnesses and deaths in cats and kittens have led to a recall of some flea and tick products, along with new warning labels and other protective measures.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently announced that safety concerns stemming from use of two flea and tick control products for cats and kittens, led the agency to persuade the Hartz Mountain Corp. to enact measures to reduce potential risks to pets from using these products.
Under an agreement with the EPA, Hartz has ceased the sale and distribution of Hartz Advanced Care Brand Flea and Tick Drops Plus for Cats and Kittens and Hartz Advanced Care Brand Once-a-Month Flea and Tick Drops for Cats and Kittens. The company will recall these products, and repackage and re-label its existing stock of the pesticides to educate consumers about their risks.
The EPA sought the agreement after investigating thousands of incidents where pets suffered adverse effects from the products. Complaints included minor problems such as skin irritation or hair loss at the application site to more serious effects on the nervous system, such as tremors, convulsions and sometimes death.
The relabeled products, which will start appearing on store shelves over the next several months, will include stronger precautionary statements and use directions. Under the revised use directions, application of the products will be limited to a single spot applied on the back of the animal's head, reducing the likelihood that the cat will lick and ingest the chemical.
For more information on the EPA's action, visit the EPA web site. For information regarding the product recovery and label improvements, consumers may contact Hartz by phone at 800-275-1414.
SHELTERS, DO YOU USE SHOR-LINE CAGES?
If so, and if they are older, pre-1992 models in which both of the door hinges face down, you'll need to read the following to ensure the safety of the animals in your care. The ASPCA's Lanie Anton, National Shelter Outreach Internet manager, recently got a call from a woman who volunteers at a Missouri shelter. "Two kittens at her shelter got caught in their old Shor-Line cages, resulting in the loss of one cat's leg and severe damage to the other kitten's leg," explains Anton. "When the volunteer called Shor-Line, the company told her that there is a part that corrects the problem, and they will ship it for free to shelters."If your shelter uses Shor-Line cages built before 1992, please call Shor-Line at (800) 444-1579 and ask for Tech Services or Sales. When you request the replacement ”Corner Closure #11000000” you will be asked to provide your shelter's name, shelter's address, and the number of cages for which you need the part. The parts will be shipped at no charge.
Animal Protection Voters of New Mexico
PO Box 1215
Santa Fe, NM 87504-1215
505-989-1442
Fax: 505-954-4263
www.nmanimalcontrol.com
PET HEALTH ALERT: PRODUCTS SWEETENED WITH XYLITOL CAN BE TOXIC TO DOGS
Sugar-free candy and gum may be sweet enough for you but they can possibly be toxic to your animal companions.According to the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC), xylitol--a sweetener found in certain sugar-free chewing gum, candies and other products--can potentially cause serious, even life-threatening problems for pets.
Based on data collected from the 40-plus related cases the center has managed since last July, canines who have ingested significant amounts of gum or candy solely or largely containing xylitol may develop a sudden drop in blood sugar, resulting in depression, loss of coordination and seizures.
"These signs can develop quite rapidly, at times less than 30 minutes after ingestion," says Dr. Eric Dunayer, consulting veterinarian for the APCC.
"Therefore, it is important that pet owners seek veterinary treatment immediately."
The APCC advises pet owners to be especially diligent about keeping candy, gum or other foods containing xylitol out of their animals' reach. For more information on how to protect your pet from potentially dangerous substances, please visit APCC online.
WARNING ABOUT PETMATE KENNEL
PetMate Pet Home Wire Training Kennel Purchased at Wal-Mart Don’t let this happen to your beloved dog or puppy. This kennel is poorly designed as your puppy or dog can easily get the hooks undone. These hooks are what connect the sides to the top, bottom, front and back to make the kennel ‘sturdy’. It is NOT sturdy and it is NOT safe!
My puppy was able to easily get one of the hooks unlatched that connected the front to the top; this created an opening that she attempted to jump through. Tragically, her legs and belly got stuck and I found her when I got home. Her belly was caught around the lock which caused her to slowly bleed to death internally. It was the most horrific sight I have ever seen and is etched in my memory forever. I believe she put up quite a fight in an attempt to survive.
I can see an older and larger dog easily getting his head stuck in this type of opening resulting in possible strangulation. Please do not risk your puppy or dog’s life and safety. And, PLEASE DO NOT BUY or USE THIS PetMate Wire Kennel.
I tried so hard to prevent any future deaths from occurring as a result of this Petmate Wire Kennel, but sadly I was unable to do so. I have just learned of the tragic death of another dog, Molly, a beloved cocker spaniel that was also killed by this wire kennel on May 6th, 2004.
This product was made by the company listed below:
Doskocil Manufacturing, Inc. (PetMate)
P.O. Box 1246
Arlington, Texas USA 76004-1246
Gary Baughman CEO
1-877-738-6283
INFO@PETMATE.COMOther problems reported about this Petmate Wire Kennel:
May 10, 2004: Our family dog died in this crate on Thursday, May 6, 2004.
To the parents of Jasmine:
My name is Beth. I got Molly for my mother, Elizabeth, almost 13 years ago to keep my mother company as I left home to join the Army. Molly did just that. Molly was a cocker spaniel and weighed less than 30lbs. Yes, she was old and lived out most of her life, and it was a good life. But Molly didn't deserve to die the way she did, just as your Jasmine.My Mom purchased the Petmate crate from Wal-Mart in Johnstown, Pennsylvania on April 3, 2004. We already had two crates that were purchased about 3 or 4 months ago for her Lhasa Apso pups and then purchased this last one for her older cocker spaniel.
We do not know exactly how it happened and probably never will since no one was home at the time. But this is what we think happened. Somehow Molly got the crate to tip (almost completely impossible), and then the connector that keeps the bottom tray in place, malfunctioned and the tray came flying out. (The tray was a few feet away from the crate). Now, under the tray are larger holes than anywhere else on that crate. While the crate was tipping over, Molly's head became lodged in one of those larger holes. Then finally the crate came to a rest on top of Molly, putting extreme pressure on her windpipe. My mother is the one who found Molly in this horrible position. We believe Molly must have been there giving it all of her strength because once we returned from burring her and to clean up the mess, we found several of her teeth and some claws on the floor near the crate. That just seemed to really high the fan of shear terror. I just can't begin to image what she went through. The guilt my mother has right now is horrible. She just felt Molly would be safer in the crate than loose in the house. Believe me, we know exactly what your family has gone through. Death should never be this way.
My mother spoke to a woman at Petmate named Melba and she said their company has NEVER received any complaints about this crate ever before. I wish I would have know about your accident prior to that conversation so I could have brought up your situation. They must know that their crates are dangerous.
February 5, 2004 : another pup's story
...i also came home to find my lab puppy lodged in one of those kennels. she had tried to get out and became stuck with her head outside of the cage and her body still inside. luckily, i arrived home in time. but she was quite tramatized and i feel that she was near death. she could not even walk for about 2 hours after. she still has scar tissue on her throat from the incident. i'm so sorry your situation didn't end as mine did. i wanted you to know that after reading your story, i wrote to the company and told them of my similar situation, urging them to do something about their design before more animals are hurt or worse!!! it's great that you are working so hard to warn others of the dangers of this kennel. thank you for your efforts! i will forward your email on to others on my email list, to help assure that your voice is heard...February 4, 2004: Jasmine/Wal_mart FYI
...I used to be a Wal-Mart Manager and we had 2 reported dog-deaths from this kennel in my 1 store alone. HEARTBREAKING. The corporate office would not allow us to remove the crate from the shelves!!! *I* reimbursed the owners from store funds for all claims (something the company did not recommend) but how do you make up for something so tragic? You don't. We couldn't even post a warning! ...February 07, 2004: Crates - they are all built poorly with no regard for animal safety
...one of my fosters almost suffered the same fate as Jasmine; I had come back home after only a few minutes because I forgot something - that was the only reason he survived. He was pinned 1/2 in, 1/2 out and was being squashed. I could barely pull the thing open enough to get him out - it was that tight on him.February 6, 2004 : Jasmine and the kennel
...I owned one of these kennels. I purchased it to go on the road with one of my show dogs, a 13 month old Australian Shepherd named Rookie. It was still in the box when his handler picked him and his things up. My handler complained about the kennel being difficult to set up/take down and most of all that it constantly collapsed when Rookie turned around in it. They asked not send the kennel again.This morning I found your site mentioned in a post from an email list I am on. The two added up...... I printed out the info on your site, went to Wal Mart and returned my kennel. I insisted on cash back, not a credit (since I no longer had the receipt) and was given the money to purchase another kennel elsewhere. I also gave them your website printout. The manager was very interested and promised to follow up.
I then called the manufacturer and told them very politely that I was having problems with the kennel, to which she politely apologized. I asked them why they did not order a recall or an investigation into the product since they were apparently aware it was defective. She assured me that they had not rec'd complaints previously. I told them of your website. Her tone immediately changed and she briskly informed me that they were indeed aware of the website and that they stood behind their product. She then transferred me to the voice mail of someone who I believe handles complaints, I have not yet rec'd a call back after leaving a message...
INTRODUCING THE KEEP 'UM SAFE SAFETY LOOP (READ MORE AT WWW.KEEPUMSAFE.COM)
WARNING ABOUT HEARTWORM INJECTABLE PREVENTATIVE PROHEART 6
Fort Dodge Animal Health To Voluntarily Recall ProHeart 6
09/03/2004Company Supports Independent Scientific Panel to Review Complex Data
OVERLAND PARK, Kan. (September 3, 2004) Fort Dodge Animal Health, a division of Wyeth (NYSE: WYE), announced today that it will voluntarily comply with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Center for Veterinary Medicines request to temporarily cease production and recall ProHeart 6, a heartworm preventative, from the market until the FDA's questions regarding safety are resolved. Fort Dodge Animal Health also announced its support for FDA’s formation of an independent Advisory Panel to review safety data on ProHeart 6. The panel will review safety data based on reports submitted through FDA's voluntary self-reporting system.
While Fort Dodge Animal Health is cooperating with FDA's request for a recall, we have concerns about how the agency interpreted complex data. As such, the Company fully supports the initiation of this review process, and will work closely with FDA to provide any necessary information for the panel to make a fair and accurate assessment of these data. We look forward to working with the panel and remain confident in the safety and efficacy of ProHeart 6.
Based on a thorough evaluation of FDA's data, and consultation with independent experts in veterinary medicine and epidemiology, Fort Dodge Animal Health stands behind ProHeart 6, which plays a vital role in preventing heartworm disease. This life-threatening disease is one of the most common and dangerous parasites for dogs, and impacted nearly a quarter of a million dogs in 2001.
”Our first and foremost concern is providing safe and effective products to ensure the health and well being of all pets,” said Dr. Rami Cobb, vice president of pharmaceutical research and development for Fort Dodge. “We take each and every adverse event report very seriously and evaluate them thoroughly, regardless of whether or not the product appears to be involved.”
It is important to recognize that all potential adverse events reported to the FDA are “unfiltered,” meaning all reported potential events are submitted without regard to cause, and cases subsequently determined not to be related to the product are still included in the overall reporting numbers. A thorough evaluation of the data indicates that the incidence of disease and death seen with the use of ProHeart 6 is at or below the baseline (the normal number that would be expected) for the U.S. canine population. Specifically:
· The overall incidence of adverse events represent less than one half of one percent of the more than 18 million doses have been sold to veterinarians.
· For hematologic and autoimmune signs, the incidence rate is one in 31,000 doses, well below the baseline for the U.S. canine population.
· The average age for liver signs in ProHeart 6 reports is within the range reported in the general canine population.
Read more about this issue at www.fda.gov/cvm/index/safety/proheart6.htm and www.proheart6dvm.com
BEWARE OF USING CLUMPING LITTER WITH KITTENS
Recently one of our readers rescued an abandoned kitten in front of a local Walmart. She had another older cat, and not realizing that there might be a problem, let the kitten use the clumping litter she had for her other cat. The kitten soon developed a grayish oozing from her anus and digestive problems. She brought her in for a medical checkup, and it was discovered that the clumping litter had caused her intestines to impact and explode. Sadly, she had to be euthanized. The moral is, DO NOT USE CLUMPING LITTER ON KITTENS. See our fall 2004 issue for more on this problem.
FIRST NEUTERING DRUG FOR PUPPIES GETS FDA APPROVAL Neutersol® (Zinc Gluconate Neutralized by Arginine) is First Approved Non-Surgical, Injectable Sterilant for Safe, Effective Neutering of Male Puppies Ages 3 to 10 MonthsColumbia, Missouri, May 19, 2003)--- Puppy owners will now be offered a choice for neutering their male puppies. The Federal Food and Drug Administration has approved Neutersol® as the world's first injectable neutering drug for puppies 3 to 10 months of age.
With the puppy lying on its back and properly restrained (chemical restraint may be used, if necessary, to prevent the dog from moving during the injection), the veterinarian gently injects Neutersol into each of the testicles using a very fine needle. The exact dose is pre-calibrated by measuring the width of the puppy's testicles using a custom dosing caliper. Neutersol is 99.6% effective in achieving sterilization.
Owners are relieved of their worries of subjecting the puppy to surgery and the time it takes, thus providing an attractive choice. "When presented with the time-savings, speed and ease of the Neutersol procedure, owners immediately understand the advantages of choosing Neutersol as the neutering approach," notes Jim Howard, DVM, owner of Howard Veterinary Hospital in Jefferson City, MO, one of the five test sites for the neutering product. "They now have a choice between surgery or an injection that takes only a few minutes."
See www.neutersol.com/fieldstudy for detailed study protocols and report of findings. For more information about Neutersol, contact your local veterinarian.
WARNING: NEW KAOPECTATE FORMULA UNSAFE FOR DOGS AND CATS
From Veterinary medicine Bulletin #4544.1: Those of you who use Kaopectate to control diarrhea, especially in cats, need to be aware of the recent formula change. Due to concerns regarding lead levels in the old formulation the manufacturer of Kaopectate have changed the active ingredient to bismuth subsalicylate. Salicylates (e.g. aspirin, Pepto Bismol and now Kaopectate) should only be administered to cats under veterinary supervision. Some dogs are also sensitive to salicylates. It is no longer safe to use Kaopectate for dogs or for cats at home. For more, go to:
www.usp.org/reporting/prnews/dsw - J. Martin DVM
WARNING: KEEP YOUR DOG AWAY FROM D-CON
There is evidence that more mice are coming into people's homes this winter. Packets of D-Con frequently are used to kill these unwanted mice. Mice eat the D-Con and die because their blood stops coagulating, which makes them bleed to death.D-Con works quite effectively to eliminate mice, although it is a horrible death. A bigger problem arises when the packets are placed in areas where the family dog, cat or child is liable to find them. The packet contents have a sweet odor that attracts dogs. When a dog eats the D-Con, he is subject to the same type of death as the mouse unless he receives immediate emergency veterinary attention. Dogs are indiscriminate eaters making them more likely to eat the D-Con packets than cats.
According to the University of Minnesota Veterinary Teaching Hospital staff, symptoms of this type of poisoning may not appear for 2-5 days.
Information we've received from one of our readers suggests that the time period for symptoms to appear can be significantly longer. In the case of her miniature Schnauzer the symptoms did not appear for 11 days. She was told by the veterinarians at Colorado State University Veterinary Medical Center that there are two types of D-Con. One has a 5-day reaction time, the other has a 6-week reaction time. Be sure to check with your veterinarian, but you might want to consider keeping your dog on vitamin K tablets for at least 6 weeks as a precaution.
Symptoms include:
* Depression
* Lack of appetite
* Exercise intolerance
* HemorrhageHemorrhaging may occur into the skin, causing bruising, into the chest cavity causing difficult breathing and bloody nasal discharge, into the stomach and intestinal tract causing bloody saliva, vomiting blood or bloody feces, into the spinal column or brain causing central nervous system disorders such as seizures, or into the abdominal cavity. If the animal is anemic, he may show signs of disorientation, lethargy, or sudden death.
Treatment depends on how quickly the dog is brought to the veterinarian. If the dog is brought in within 4 hours of eating the D-Con, the veterinarian will use charcoal to induce vomiting. If hemorrhaging is already present, this treatment won't help. At this point the dog is treated with Vitamin K to help him make new clotting factors in his blood. This treatment can take several weeks or even months and is very expensive. Some dogs may require blood transfusions and antibiotics. Cage rest and restricted exercise are recommended until the animal heals.
D-Con poisoning is an emergency. Call your veterinarian immediately. For further information visit The PetCARE Information Center.
COMMON PET PERILS, EXPANDED VERSION
For a printable PDF (124KB) called "What You Should Know About Common Pet Perils" that includes plants, foods, household chemicals, frostbite, heat stroke, burns, insect stings, snake bites, and swallowed foreign objects, please click here.
