Warning: Serious Illness In Dogs Linked To Chicken Jerky Treats

Chicken jerky treats imported from China appear to be responsible for hundreds of recent reports of mysterious illnesses that can mimic diabetes mellitus in dogs. This syndrome has results in the death of some deaths of the affected dogs, which has prompted a renewed warning for pet owners by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

In 2006, China was responsible for the melamine contamination of the food additives known as wheat gluten and rice protein concentrate. This triggered a nationwide recall of several dog food items from a variety of manufactures. This time the item of concern is chicken jerky treats.

FDA issued a cautionary warning regarding chicken jerky products to consumers in September 2007 and a Preliminary Animal Health Notification in December of 2008. After seeing the number of complaints received drop off during the latter part of 2009 and most of 2010, complaints to the FDA started increasing again in 2011. In November, the FDA announced an official cautionary warning for consumers feeding chicken jerky treats to their dogs (1).

Now amid reports of more than 500 dogs sickened by chicken jerky pet treats imported from China, FDA officials have begun collecting and testing chicken jerky treats upon import, analyzing samples for evidence of dangerous toxins. To date there hasn't been a specific cause or contaminant identified, but the FDA is looking into melamine and diethylene glycol, chemicals used in plastics and resins.

Dog Treats can Cause Fanconi Syndrome and Kidney Failure 

Dogs that consume the imported chicken jerky food products routinely can develop a Fanconi-like syndrome (2). This is an uncommon condition which affects the kidneys and causes them to leak glucose (sugar) and other electrolytes into the urine.

Clinical signs or symptoms of Fanconi syndrome in dogs can include decreased appetite, decreased activity, vomiting, and increased water consumption and/or increased urination. Blood tests may indicate kidney failure (increased serum urea nitrogen and creatinine concentrations).  Urine tests may indicate Fanconi syndrome (high amounts of glucose in the urine). The increased glucose excretion in the urine (glycosuria) can be confused with diabetes mellitus, but dogs with Fanconi syndrome maintain a normal blood glucose level. If left untreated, severe renal failure can develop, and death is possible.

Until more is known, the FDA has made the following recommendations (1):

• Chicken jerky products should not be substituted for a balanced diet and are intended to be fed occasionally in small quantities. 
• Consumers that feed chicken jerky products to their dogs should monitor for symptoms of decreased energy, decreased appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, increased water consumption, and increased urination. 
• If a dog develops any of these signs, you should stop feeding the chicken jerky product.
• Owners should consult their veterinarian if signs are severe or persist for more than 24 hours. 
• Veterinarians and consumers alike should report cases of animal illness associated with pet foods to the FDA’s Pet Food Complaint site. 

Bottom line

At this time, I would encourage you to only purchase products that are made in the United States. The first thing that I do when looking at a bag of pet treats is turn it over and look for the country of origin. At least for now, I would not buy any treats that are imported from China.

I also encourage pet owners to limit treats to less than 15 percent of the overall calorie intake for their dogs. Please keep in mind that raw or cooked vegetables such as carrots, green beans, and broccoli make wonderful treats, especially for those dogs who are struggling to lose weight.

References:

1. FDA website. FDA Continues to Caution Dog Owners About Chicken Jerky Products
2. Hooper AN, Roberts BK. Fanconi syndrome in four non-basenji dogs exposed to chicken jerky treats. Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association 2011;47:178-187.

3 Things You Can Do To Help Your Dog Lose Weight

We are an overweight society and our pets are no different. Over half of American dogs are overweight, and up to 25% are obese.

Dogs with obesity are more prone to a variety of health problems, just like people. These include an increased incidence of diabetes, asthma, and hip and joint problems.

Losing weight can help overweight dogs become healthier and happier. It can also help them to live longer.

Here are some things you can do tomorrow that can help your dog start losing weight.

1. Cut the treats in half. If you must feed treats, cut them in half or give half as many in a day. This can help cut calories. Switching to carrots may help.
2. Exercise your dog more. Ask your vet if your pet is healthy enough to tolerate more exercise. If you play with your dog every day, play a few minutes longer. If you go on a walk, go a little farther. This helps burn calories.
3. Lower the amount of calories your dog consumes each day by changing your dog's food. I like to use diets lower in carbohydrates and higher in protein.

There are several diets formulated for weight loss. Discuss it with your veterinarian to learn more. But remember, whatever diet is chosen, portion control is a big issue.

Although the most common explanation for an overweight pet is simply a lack of exercise and too much to eat. But what if you feed your dog sensibly, exercise adequately, and your dog still has a weight problem?

There could be a number of underlying diseases may be causing your dog to become overweight or obese. Hormonal diseases such as hypothyroidism and Cushing’s syndrome commonly cause weight gain. Steroid pills or tablets with cortisone-like drugs could also be contributing to the obesity.

If these 3 simple hints don't help, ask your veterinarian if an underlying disease could be part of the problem.

Obesity Epidemic Worsening U.S. Pets

A recent survey by the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP) found that 53% of dogs and 55% of cats in the U.S. are overweight or obese. In many of these dogs or cats, owners are unaware of their pet's weight problem, a phenomenon dubbed the "fat pet gap" by veterinarian Ernie Ward, APOP's founder.

The study finds that more pets are becoming obese and the already overweight pets are still gaining weight.

Click on the link to see the full CNN article (Obesity epidemic strikes U.S. pets) published on February 4, 2012 by Josh Levs.

Click here to learn more about the  Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP).

A Day in the Life of Penny, a Hyperthyroid Cat Being Treated at Hypurrcat

Penny was treated this week with radioiodine (I-131) in order to destroy her thyroid tumor and cure her hyperthyroidism.

As you can see, she is enjoying her vacation at the Hypurrcat spa!

For more information, please visit our website and check out our Hypurrcat Facebook page.

Dr. Peterson appointed to Executive Board of the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention

Dr. Peterson was recently appointed as the newest Executive Board member of the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention. This new appointment comes on the heels of Dr. Peterson's recent in-depth analysis of small animal nutrition and the role the pet food industry plays in what we feed our dogs and cats.

About the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP)

The Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP) has launched campaigns to fight pet obesity within the veterinary medical community, veterinary schools, and state and local veterinary organizations, and has reached out to various media outlets. We are made up of dedicated veterinarians and veterinary healthcare personnel who are committed to making the lives of dogs, cats, all other animals and people healthier and more vital.

APOP is not affiliated with any veterinary industry corporation or business in any manner. This neutrality is critical to our ability to provide unbiased information and advice to veterinary healthcare providers and the pet-loving public.

APOP was founded in 2005 by veterinarian Dr. Ernie Ward, a competitive Ironman triathlete, certified personal trainer, and accredited USA Triathlon coach. A key component of APOP’s mission is to develop and promote parallel weight loss programs designed to help pet owners lose weight alongside their pets.

To see a list of the other APOP Executive Board members, click here.

Avoid a Pet Emergency: Super Sunday Parties Can be Dangerous for your Dog and Cat

Beware — your Super Sunday party may be dangerous for your pet.

In the article below, Dr. Ernie Ward, founder and President of the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP), offers tips to pet owners to make sure their Super Sunday party activities don’t end up with an overtime veterinary emergency.

This is a must read for owners of dogs and cats planning to have a party while watching the football game this Sunday.

Links:

• Avoid a Pet Emergency Super Sunday Overtime: Championship Game Parties Can be Dangerous to your Dog and Cat
• Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP) website