AN American pet food manufacturer has recalled a number of dog and cat treats following five cases of salmonella contamination associated with the treats.

By NICK MAYS

T.W. Enterprises of Ferndale, Washington, alerted consumers recently that it is recalling certain dog and cat treats it markets because they may be contaminated with salmonella thompson.
People handling these treats can become infected with salmonella thompson, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with any of the treats or any surfaces exposed to these products.

Salmonella thompson is an organism that can cause serious infections in small children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy people may only suffer short-term symptoms, such as high fever, severe headache, vomiting, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhoea. Long-term complications can include arthritis.

It is likely that none of these products are on general sale in the UK, although there is always a chance that some may be privately imported, possibly by holidaymakers returning from the USA or Canada with treats for their dog or cat.

The firm and authorities are actively investigating this matter to determine the source of this problem, and will take any additional steps necessary to protect the public health.

Consumers who have these pet treats should not feed them to their pets, but should instead dispose of them in a safe manner (e.g. in a securely covered trash receptacle). Anyone who is experiencing the symptoms of salmonella thompson infection after having handled one of these pet products should seek medical attention.

People should thoroughly wash their hands after handling any pet treat - especially those made from raw animal protein such as meat or fish - to help prevent infection. People may risk bacterial infection not only by handling the treats, but also by contact with pets or surfaces exposed to these treats, so it is important that they thoroughly wash their hands with hot water and soap.