FDA warns dog owners on
Chinese chicken jerkey

IN December the FDA Continued to receive complaints about chicken jerky products for dogs and released a caution to consumers. There is a potential association between the development of illness in dogs and the consumption of chicken jerky products - also described as chicken tenders, strips or treats.

Complaints received were of dogs experiencing illness that their owners or veterinarians associated with consumption of chicken jerky products. The chicken jerky products are imported to the U.S. from China. The FDA had issued a cautionary warning to consumers in September 2007.

Australian news organizations report the University of Sydney is also investigating an association between illness in dogs and the consumption of chicken jerky in Australia. At least one firm in Australia has recalled their chicken jerky products and the recall notification stated that the chicken jerky product was manufactured in China.

The FDA believes the continued trend of consumer complaints coupled with the information obtained from Australia warrants an additional reminder and animal health notification. Chicken jerky products should not be substituted for a balanced diet and are intended to be used only occasionally and in small quantities. Owners of small dogs must be especially careful to limit the amount of these products.

The FDA, in addition to several veterinary diagnostic laboratories in the U.S. is working to determine why these products are associated with illness in dogs. To date, scientists have not been able to determine a definitive cause for the reported illnesses. FDA has conducted extensive chemical and microbial testing but has not identified any contaminant.

Consumers who choose to feed their dogs chicken jerky products are advised to watch their dogs closely for any or all of the following signs which may occur within hours or days of feeding the product:

• Decreased appetite, although some may continue to consume the treats to the exclusion of other foods
• Decreased activity; vomiting; diarrhea, sometimes with blood
• Increased water consumption and/or increased urination

If the dog shows any of these signs, stop feeding the chicken jerky product. Owners should consult their veterinarian if signs are severe or persist for more than 24 hours. Blood tests may indicate kidney failure (increased urea nitrogen and creatinine). Urine tests may indicate Fanconi syndrome (increased glucose). Although most dogs appear to recover, some reports to the FDA have involved dogs that have died.

The FDA continues to actively investigate the problem. Many of the illnesses reported may be the result of causes other than eating chicken jerky. Veterinarians and consumers alike should report cases of animal illness associated with pet foods to the FDA Consumer Complaint Co-ordinator in their state at http://www.fda.gov/opacom/backgrounders/complain.html.

It is most unfortunate that nothing has yet been found that could cause these symptoms but as a dog owner I would say to all owners who have used these products whether they have experienced problems or not - using such product is not worth the potential damage that may be done to your loved pet. Prevention is better than cure. Also consider that these products are from China - are you even sure that they are actually chicken? It could well be dog or cat or any other wildlife unfortunate enough to get in their way! It could be civet, which everyone knows is loaded with bacteria. China is well-known for its deception to gain markets and its processes of preservation and manufacture are all too often backyard operations. The damage your dog suffers may or may not be long-term so err on the side of caution and keep such stuff out of your cupboards. - Ed