This is a press release courtesy of the Oregon Public Health Division

State Public Health Veterinarian Emilio DeBess reported the first confirmed case of salmonella infection in an Oregon dog related to recalled pet products containing peanut ingredients.

A 3-year-old mixed-breed dog from Oakland (Douglas County) that consumed Happy Tails dog biscuits from Albertsons developed a severe case of diarrhea. Tests at Oregon State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory showed that it had serogroup B salmonella. The strain implicated in the current outbreak is also in serogroup B.

Happy Tails dog biscuits and other pet treats containing peanut ingredients made by Peanut Corporation of America (PCA) have been recalled due to potential salmonella contamination. PCA is the focus of an FDA investigation.

Dr. Paul Gore, Oakland Veterinary Hospital, reported this case to Dr. DeBess, who had asked Oregon veterinarians to report dogs that developed diarrhea after consuming recalled products.

The product, Happy Tails Multi-Flavor dog biscuits, UPC 41163 42403, in a 4 lb. box with a “best by” date of Oct 31 09, was tested at IEH Laboratories & Consulting Group in Lake Forest Park, WA. The testing showed Salmonella.

In late January, Albertsons recalled its store brand Happy Tails multi-flavored dog biscuit products that were sold at Albertson’s stores in several states, including Oregon. The biscuits contained peanut butter made by PCA. The following products were recalled:

Happy Tails Multi-Flavored Dog Biscuits, 26 oz, UPC: 41163-42406

Happy Tails Multi-Flavored Dog Biscuits, 4 lb, UPC: 41163-42403
Pet owners are advised to check their pet treats to see if they have any of the recalled products in their household. “If you do, stop feeding them to your pets immediately. If the product is open, dispose of it in a pet-safe location,” Dr. DeBess recommended. Unopened products should be returned to the store of purchase.

Other affected brands include: Healthy Hide, Shoppers Valu, Carolina Prime Pet, Salix, Grreat Choice and Happy Tails. A list of recalled pet treats is available on the Oregon Veterinary Medical Association (OVMA) Web site (oregonvma.org).

Pets with Salmonella infections may be lethargic and have diarrhea (sometimes bloody), fever, and vomiting. Some pets will have only decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. Well animals can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. “If your pet has consumed any recalled product and has symptoms like these, contact your veterinarian,” advised DeBess.

The OVMA cautions pet owners to wash their hands after touching dogs who are sick because of the potential of bacterial transmission.

Over 575 human illnesses in 43 states have been identified-most in the past 3 months-including 12 cases to date in Oregon. This outbreak has been linked to the consumption of peanut butter and peanut or peanut butter-containing foods.

The OVMA will continue to work with the State Public Health Veterinarian and Oregon veterinarians to inform pet owners of the potential risks to themselves and their pets. Veterinarians are asked to report suspected cases to the Oregon Public Health Division.

The Oregon Veterinary Medical Association is a nonprofit organization of veterinarians who are dedicated to helping people give their animals a high quality of life.