Pet Food Recall Update… Even More…
With two more recall notices today, I thought this would be a good time to pass on the Veterinary Information Network safe feeding guidelines. The new sites are on the KVC webpage.
Q: What should pet owners feed their pets?
A: In light of all the gaps in our understanding of this problem, there is no easy answer to this question.
- DO NOT FEED
- Recalled foods with the specific listed product codes - AVOID FEEDING
- Foods containing wheat gluten, especially if the company does not guaranteed that they have investigated the source of their gluten and found no relationship to the implicated gluten source. Some might consider this recommendation “alarmist” but until we know more, it is difficult to avoid the conclusion that “wheat gluten” containing products represent a potential risk. - DO FEED
- Complete and balanced diets from a major food manufacturer that does not contain wheat gluten. - REMEMBER
- There are no guarantees. There are many unanswered questions and at this moment, we base recommendations upon the best available information.
- Home cooking for pets is not something to be taken lightly. Encourage owners to consult a veterinarian trained in nutrition before considering this as a long-term solution.
- Feeding raw food diets is highly controversial and brings significant risks with regard to whether all but the most dedicated owner can ensure a complete and balanced diet and, moreso, avoid significant risk of human health resulting from exposure of children and adults to improperly prepared and handled raw foods in their kitchen.