Tuesday, March 29, 2011

Free Eye Exams for Service Dogs

In May, the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists will host complimentary eye screenings for service dogs.

Over 170 board certified veterinary ophthalmologists in the U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico will donate their time and services.

Service Dog groups include: therapy dogs, search and rescue dogs, guide dogs, police dogs, handicapped assistance dogs, and detection dogs. Service Dogs must meet criteria listed on ACVO's website.

Other service animals (e.g. horses, cats, etc) are also welcome to participate as long as they meet the qualifications listed on the website.


Registration for the 2011 event will begin April 1st. For more information visit The ACVO Eye Exam Website



Wednesday, March 9, 2011

Jones Natural Pig Ear Recall

Jones Natural Chews Co of Rockford, IL is recalling some lots of its Pig Ears because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.

  • Jones Natural Chews Co Pig Ears 2pk bag with header card–item upc 741956001047 lot 2420
  • Jones Natural Chews Co Pig Ears bulk 100ct box-box upc 741956001139 lot 2490, 2560, 2630, 2700, 2840, 2910, 2980
  • Jones Natural Chews Co Pig Ears bulk 50 ct box-box upc 741956001504 lot 2490, 2840
  • Jones Natural Chews Co Pig Ears bulk 25ct box-box upc 741956001467 lot 2700
  • Jones Natural Chews Co Pig Ears 1pk shrinkwrapped-item upc 741956001146 lot 2700, 2840, 2420
  • Jones Natural Chews Co Pig Ears 10pk printed bag-item upc 741956001405 lot 2420, 2560, 2630, 2840
  • Blain’s Farm & Fleet Pig Ears 10 pieces bag-item upc 741956001405 lot 2560
  • Country Butcher Dog Chews Pig Ears 1pk shrinkwrapped-item upc 741956001511 lot 2630
  • Country Butcher Dog Chews Pig Ears 1pk shrinkwrapped-item upc 741956001146 lot 2420
  • Country Butcher Dog Chews Pig Ears 12pk bag-item upc 741956001245 lot 2910

Salmonella is a bacteria that can cause severe gastrointestinal disease. It can also affect other organ systems as well. Typical signs associated with Salmonella in pets include but are not limited to: vomiting, diarrhea, diarrhea with blood, lethargy, depression, weakness, loss of appetite, weight loss, fever, and abdominal pain.

Animals that don't show clinical signs can also be carriers of Salmonella and pass it to other pets and humans.

If your pet has any signs or has ingested the product mentioned above, please contact your veterinarian.


Salmonella can also affect humans and there is a risk if you or someone you know has come in contact with pet food, treats or supplements contaminated with Salmonella, this includes dry products. The elderly, children and immunocompromised individuals are most at risk.

To reduce risk of infection, people should wash their hands with hot soapy water after touching pet foods and surfaces pet foods have come in contact with.

The clinical signs are similar as in pets. If you or anyone you know is showing clinical signs after coming in contact with this product, contact your health care provider.


Consumers who have purchased any of these pig ears are urged to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 1-877-481-2663.

Wednesday, March 2, 2011

Wellness Cat Food Recall

WellPet LLC has issued a voluntary recall of certain lots of its Wellness canned cat food.

These lots include:

* Wellness Canned Cat Food (all flavors and sizes) with best by dates from 14APR 13 through 30SEP13

* Wellness Canned Cat Food Chicken & Herring (all sizes) with 10NOV13 or 17NOV13 best buy dates.


These lots may contain insufficient levels of Vitamin B1 (thiamine).


Early signs of thiamine deficiency involve the gastrointestinal tract and may include vomiting, loss of appetite, salivation and weight loss. Advanced cases of thiamine deficiency involve the neurological system and may include ventroflexion (downward curving) of the neck, wobbly gait, circling, falling and seizures.

Contact your veterinarian immediately if your cat is displaying any of these signs. If treated promptly, thiamine deficiency is typically reversible.

If you have cans from these lots, stop feeding them and call WellPet at (877) 227-9587 Monday through Friday, 9:00 am - 7:00 pm Eastern Time.