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A possible Salmonella health risk sparks a voluntary recall.
Due to concerns regarding a potential Salmonella contamination, the Hartz Mountain Corporation announced today that it is voluntarily recalling one specific lot of Hartz Naturals Real Beef Treats for Dogs.
As with similar recalls by other pet food brands in recent months, the company urges pet owners to watch for symptoms of Salmonella infection in both pets and humans. According to the corporation's press release, "Salmonella is an organism which can cause serious infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems, all of whom are at particular risk from exposure and should avoid handling these products."
Symptoms of exposure to Salmonella may include "fever, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and nausea in both dogs and humans." Individuals experiencing these symptoms should seek immediate medical attention, and pet owners should seek immediate veterinary care on behalf of dogs exhibiting these symptoms.
The current recall affects one specific lot. "Hartz Mountain Corporation is recalling 74,700 8-oz bags of Hartz Naturals Real Beef Treats for Dogs, lot code BZ0969101E, UPC number 32700-11519, which were imported by Hartz from a Brazilian supplier, Bertin S.A., and which were distributed to a number of customers in the United States," states the company's press release.
"While regular testing conducted by Bertin (prior to shipment to the US) did not detect the presence of Salmonella in any packages of this product, random sample testing conducted by FDA did indicate the presence of Salmonella. Hartz is aggressively investigating the source of the problem."
No reports have surfaced of animals or humans becoming ill as a result of contact with the product, but the company is taking aggressive and immediate measures to remove the product from shelves.
To contact the company with any questions or for information on how to obtain reimbursement, consumers can call 1-800-275-1414.
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