Illnesses Associated with Pet Jerky Treats; AVA Advises Owners on Pet Safety

Note: the following was submitted by the American Veterinary Association 

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) continues to investigate whether or not jerky treats are associated with pet illnesses that have caused nearly 600 pet deaths since 2007. In an effort to gather more information, the FDA's Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM) is reaching out to Veterinarians and pet owners nationwide.

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), which is celebrating its 150th Anniversary, is doing its part by alerting pet owners of these potential jerky-related illnesses. In a recent interview, former AVMA president Dr. Doug Aspros offered some advice for pet owners who want to keep their pets safe, "The best thing to do...is to talk to their veterinarian about anything they're feeding their pets."

Dr. Aspros also emphasized the importance of the FDA's ongoing investigation, saying "We need to identify the dogs that have had symptoms and have been associated with jerky treats."

The FDA hopes to find an answer, and in a letter sent to Veterinarians across the country listed information that could help labs testing treats and investigating the illnesses associated with them. CVM Director Bernadette Dunham, DVM, Ph.D notes, "This is one of the most elusive and mysterious outbreaks we've encountered. Our beloved four-legged companions deserve our best effort, and we are giving it." 

Veterinarians have been asked to alert Pet Owners to the problem and remind them that treats are not an essential part of a pet's diet. Meanwhile, pet owners can help the investigation by reporting potential jerky treat-related illnesses to the FDA.

For more information on the FDA's investigation, visit www.fda.gov/ForConsumers.

Former AVMA president Dr. Aspros' full interview with Fox and Friends can be seen here: http://video.foxnews.com/v/2772169739001/tainted-treats-fda-warns-of-pet-illnesses-linked-to-jerky/?playlist_id=930909787001

For more information on the AVMA and its 150th anniversary, please visitwww.avma.org.