The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reported that it has received 70 complaints of illnesses involving more than 95 dogs that their owners believe is connected with the consumption of chicken jerky products. The products were described as chicken tenders, strips and treats.
The FDA states that most dogs recovered, but some consumers reported their dogs died.
The FDA has not yet determined a cause for the illnesses; the organization has conducted testing but has not found any contaminants. The FDA states that many of the reported illnesses may stem from things other than eating chicken jerky.
However, the FDA has received information from Banfield, The Pet Hospital that suggests a connection between the chicken jerky products and signs of gastrointestinal illness, such as vomiting, diarrhea and bloody diarrhea.
Dogs who have become sick have shown the following symptoms: decreased food consumption (however some dogs may continue to eat the chicken jerky treats), lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, increased water consumption, and increased urination. A dog may exhibit some or all of the symptoms.
The FDA is advising those who continue to feed their dogs chicken jerky products to monitor their pets for these symptoms. Dogs may show signs of illness within hours to days after eating the product. Pet owners are advised to contact a veterinarian if the symptoms are severe or if they persist for more than 24 hours.
To contact the FDA and report an illness, click here.