Deadly Dog Treats: Why Is the FDA Investigating Jerky Flavored Treats? [REPORT]

Deadly dog treats are being investigated by the FDA after 580 pets have died from the jerky-flavored treats since 2007. The BBC reports that the FDA is appealing to pet-owners to help them find the cause of this outbreak that has left 3,600 dogs and 10 severely ill since 2007. The deadly dog treats are jerky-flavored and manufactured in China. The FDA has run over 1,200 tests on the deadly jerky, however, "the exact cause of the illnesses remains elusive." As such, the FDA is "reaching out to licensed veterinarians and pet owners across the country" in order to gather as much information as possible regarding the new illness to prevent future pet fatalities.

The deadly dog treats have induced symptoms including reduced appetite, decreased activity, vomiting and diarrhoea, eventually leading kidney failure and death in some cases. The jerky treats are mostly made of chicken, duck, sweet potatoes or dried fruit. "This is one of the most elusive and mysterious outbreaks we've encountered," says CVM Director Bernadette Dunham, DVM, Ph.D. "Our beloved four-legged companions deserve our best effort, and we are giving it." Dr. Dunham hopes that "we will soon find the cause of, and put a stop to, these illnesses." The FDA is meeting with regulators in China and sharing findings with Chinese scientists. It has also reached out to US pet food firms seeking further collaboration.

The deadly jerky treats have been causing considerable harm for a number of years. CBSDetroit quotes Dr. Lauren Boyd of Blue Pearl Veterinary Partners who reports that she has seen about three or four confirmed cases since 2007."Most of them have had kidney problems. We've seen a couple that have had some gastrointestinal problems - vomiting, diarrhea," said Boyd. "Sometimes it's unclear whether or not it's because of the treats or not. The confirmed ones, most of them have had kidney disease that I've seen." To contact the FDA, dial 1-888-463-6332. For more information, visit www.fda.gov.