Colorado Company Recalls Pet Chews Due to Salmonella Risk

The Natural Dog Company Inc. of Windsor, CO, is recalling its 12-oz. bags of 12″ Tremenda Sticks pet chews because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.

Salmonella can affect animals eating the product, and there is risk to humans from handling contaminated products, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the products or any surfaces exposed to these products.

The recalled 12″ Tremenda Sticks were distributed to retail stores in CA, CO, FL, IL, MO, MT, NC, OH, UT and WA.

The potential for contamination was noted after a Colorado Department of Agriculture inspection of the product revealed the presence of Salmonella in a sample taken from a 12-oz. package of 12″ Tremenda Sticks.

Production of the product has been suspended while FDA and the company continue their investigation into the source of the problem.

The recalled product comes in a 12-oz. bag without a lot number or expiration date and with UPC number 851265004957. Products with new packaging, which includes both a lot number and expiration date but the same UPC, are not affected by this recall.

No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this problem.

Consumers who have purchased 12-oz. packages of 12″ Tremenda Sticks should discontinue use of the product and may return the unused portion to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 1-888-424-4602, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. MDT.

Healthy people infected with Salmonella should monitor themselves for some or all of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. Rarely, Salmonella can result in more serious ailments, including arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, and urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with this product should contact their healthcare providers.

Pets with Salmonella infections may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, and vomiting. Some pets will have only decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. Infected but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.

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