IMPORTANT NOTICE -- PLEASE READ

July 30, 2010

To: Veterinary Clients that have purchased Iams Veterinary Formula Dry Dog and Cat or select Eukanuba products

Re:  Expansion of Voluntary Recall due to a Possible Health Risk

            The Procter & Gamble Company (P&G) issued a voluntary recall on July 25, 2010 of two specific lots of its therapeutic renal dry cat food in North America due to a possible salmonella health risk. As a further precaution, P&G is voluntarily expanding its recall to include additional veterinary formulas and some specialized Eukanuba dry pet food.

P&G Pet Care wanted to make sure veterinarians were aware of the situation as soon as possible to help you address any client concerns. The health and welfare of pets and their owners is our top priority. 

These products are made in a single, specialized facility.  In cooperation with FDA, P&G determined that some products made at this facility have the potential for salmonella contamination.  No salmonella-related illnesses have been confirmed. As a precautionary measure, P&G is suspending operations at this facility and recalling all dry pet food products manufactured at this plant, which include:  

No canned food, biscuits/treats or supplements including ProstoraMax are affected by this announcement.                                          

Consumers who have purchased these dry pet foods should discard it.  People handling dry pet food can become infected with Salmonella, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with surfaces exposed to this product. In an effort to help keep both pets and family members healthy, the FDA provides safe pet food handling tips on their website. A list of these tips can be shared with your clients at: www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ConsumerUpdates/ucm048182.htm

Concerned pet owners may be directed to call P&G toll-free at 877-340-8823.

We apologize for any inconvenience this situation may cause you and want to assure you that P&G Pet Care is taking all the necessary steps to ensure our product quality meets your expectations. 

Below is some additional information.

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Which products are involved?

None of our canned Iams Veterinary Formulas is involved in this recall. 

None of our canned Eukanuba products or canned Iams products is involved in the recall.

What is salmonella?

Salmonella is a bacteria.  Salmonella has the potential to affect the health of pets and humans, but the young, old or ill may be more susceptible.

Do you test for salmonella?

Yes.  We have a comprehensive quality testing program, in accordance with Good Manufacturing Principles.  All of our veterinary diets are tested for salmonella before they leave our manufacturing plant.

Have there been reports of illness?

No salmonella-related illnesses have been confirmed. 

How did you find out about this issue?

These products are made in a single, specialized facility.  In cooperation with FDA, P&G determined that some products made at this facility have the potential for salmonella contamination.  As a precautionary measure, P&G is recalling all products made at this facility.

What are the symptoms of a salmonella infection?

Pets with a salmonella infection may experience decreased appetite, fever, abdominal pain and appear sluggish. More aggressive symptoms may include vomiting, bloody diarrhea and dehydration.

In people, symptoms may include 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 product should contact their healthcare providers.

Will you pay my veterinary expenses or medical bills?

P&G Pet Care will work with pet owners and their doctors or veterinarians to investigate cases of possible illness due to salmonella.  Consumers can call 877-340-8823 for more information.

What should I feed instead of this product?

(If the pet is eating one of our Iams Veterinary Formula’s):  We recommend that you talk with your veterinarian to find a diet that will fit your pet’s health needs.

(If the pet is eating one of the other products affected by this recall):  There are still plenty of other Eukanuba and Iams options available.  We’re glad to make specific suggestions for your pet.

Is this a voluntary or forced recall?

Voluntary.

Where does salmonella come from?

Salmonella bacteria can be found naturally in the environment and may be carried by certain animals and humans. 

When will I get more details on the retailer return process?

Early the week of August 1.

Will you continue to manufacture at Lewisburg?

We have simply suspended operations at the Lewisburg facility until we can identify all appropriate interventions. 

Are other plants involved in this recall?

No.

What about other P&G Pet Care products?

All other products are made at different P&G plants and are not included in this issue.

What steps should I (retailer) take if I have the product in question on my shelves/in stock?

Pull it.  We will provide specific instructions early the week of August 1.

What is P&G doing to prevent similar problems in the future?

Beyond suspending production at our Lewisburg facility, we are taking a fresh look at all our processes and procedures to ensure we’re doing everything possible to consistently meet our high quality standards.

It is a team effort here at Brighton-Eggert Animal Clinic!

Coming soon to the website...

Doctor Biographies

Technician/Assistant Biographies

Receptionist Biographies &

New Updated Photos

And helpful videos to help the at home pet owner !

It's going to be a busy summer!

Keep your animals happy, healthy, and hydrated this summer!

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