July 2005
For Immediate Release

Advisory

Salmonella infection in humans linked to natural pet treats, raw food diets for pets

OTTAWA - The Public Health Agency of Canada is advising people who give their pets natural pet treats and/or raw food made from raw animal materials to wash their hands thoroughly with warm water and soap after handling these products.

Natural pet treats include various dried or smoked products with animal or seafood contents. Animal treats include ears, hooves and hearts from a number of species. Products may be sold prepackaged or in bulk. Some of these products may be a source of Salmonella bacteria that may increase the risk of Salmonella infection in humans.

Salmonellosis is an infection with Salmonella bacteria. Symptoms of salmonellosis are nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and diarrhea. The illness usually lasts 4 to 7 days, and most people recover without treatment. In some people, however, the diarrhea may be so severe that hospitalization is required. Young children, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems are more likely to have a severe illness.

There have recently been three human illnesses caused by Salmonella bacteria in Canada linked to natural pet treats. This is one of several incidents where natural pet treats have been linked to salmonellosis in humans over the past six years, including previous Salmonella outbreaks in 1999 and 2002. Studies completed by the Public Health Agency of Canada have confirmed that some of these products may be contaminated and have shown that dogs fed these products can shed Salmonella bacteria in their stool for days. A recent study from the United States also supports these findings.

After handling pet treats, pet food and pet toys or after playing with, or cleaning up after your pet, it is essential to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water.

For more information, please see the recent safety alert issued by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency .

Media Inquiries:

Jean-Mathieu Dion
Public Health Agency of Canada
(613) 948-7970