Merrick Pet Care, Inc. of Amarillo Texas, has issued a recall of pet snacks over concerns about Salmonella contamination, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) just announced. Merrick Pet Care recalled 86 cases of its “Beef Filet Squares for Dogs†pet treats in 10-ounce bags (Item #60016, Lot # 10084TL7, Best By March 24, 2012).
The FDA collected a surveillance sample of “Merrick Beef Filet Squares for Dogs†(lot #10084TL7), which was purchased from a retail store. The sample tested positive for <"https://www.yourlawyer.com/practice_areas/food_poisoning">Salmonella.


The dangerous and sometimes deadly Salmonella pathogen can affect animals and there is risk to humans from handling contaminated pet products. People handling contaminated treats can become infected with Salmonella, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the chews or any surfaces exposed to these products.
Consumers should dispose of these products in a safe manner by securing them in a covered trash receptacle. 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 recalled product should contact their healthcare providers immediately.
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 can infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed the recalled product and exhibits any of these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian immediately.
The Beef Filet Squares were shipped to distributors and retailers throughout the U.S. These individuals and firms have been notified and have activated their recall procedures.
The recalled Beef Filet Square pet treats are sold in 10-ounce plastic bags marked with “Lot # 10084TL7 Best By Mar 24, 2012†on the top of the bag and on a sticker applied to the bottom. To date, no illnesses have been reported.
Consumers who have purchased 10-ounce packages of “Beef Filet Squares for Dogs†are urged to return the unused portion to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 1-800-664-7387 Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Central Daylight Time.