In the past decade, dog food recalls have become increasingly common. From Salmonella contamination to the presence of propylene glycol, pet food manufacturers have had to recall their products for a variety of reasons. Recently, Sunshine Mills, Inc. announced a recall of 18 brands of dry dog food due to possible high levels of a by-product that can be harmful to pets if consumed in large quantities.
If you have one of the recalled products, it is important to stop giving it to your pet immediately and discard it. Additionally, you should consult a veterinarian, especially if your pet shows signs of aflatoxin poisoning. Symptoms of aflatoxin poisoning can include sluggishness, diarrhea, loss of appetite, vomiting, and jaundice (yellowing of the eyes or gums). However, it is also possible for pets to suffer liver damage from aflatoxin without showing any signs of illness, so you may want to see a veterinarian regardless of whether your pet is acting sick.
The FDA also recommends disinfecting food bowls, spoons, and storage containers with water and bleach. The 18 brands affected by the recall include Dry Dog Food with Chicken and Chickpeas, Dry Dog Food Chicken & Potato, Evolve Chicken & Rice Pup Dry Dog Food, ANF Lamb & Rice Dry Dog Food, Heartland Farms, Hunter's Special Dog Food, Old Glory, Top Runner, Bravo, Purina, and Mars. Additionally, Evanger's has had several dog food recalls for Salmonella contamination and was part of perhaps the most important pet food transgression to date. It is important for dog owners to be aware of the potential risks associated with certain brands of dog food. Allergies and gastrointestinal disorders can be caused by ingredients in some dog foods. Additionally, some brands may be more likely to be recalled than others due to their manufacturing processes or ingredients.
It is important to research the ingredients in any brand of dog food before feeding it to your pet. By being aware of the potential risks associated with certain brands of dog food and researching ingredients before feeding them to your pet, you can help ensure that your pet stays safe and healthy. If you have any questions about the safety of a particular brand or product, it is best to contact the manufacturer directly.
