Aflatoxin comes from a fungus found on corn and other crops and can cause severe liver damage in pets. If your pet shows any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately. — Sluggishness — Loss of appetite — Jaundice (yellow whites of the eyes, gums, belly) — Severe, persistent vomiting combined with bloody diarrhea — Fever Source: Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
In The News
COLUMBIA, S.C. - The FDA reports that at least 76 dogs nationwide are believed to have died as a result of eating contaminated Diamond Pet Foods.
The company has recalled 19 varieties of dog and cat food because tests showed high levels of aflatoxin, a naturally occurring toxic chemical that comes from a fungus found on corn and other grains that causes severe liver damage in animals.
The company recalled products manufactured at its Gaston, S.C., plant from around September to November 2005. Based on sample testing, Diamond has narrowed down the exposure to food produced on Oct. 11, Brinkmann said Thursday.
The FDA and the South Carolina Department of Agriculture have launched investigations.
Customers who have purchased the recalled Diamond Pet Food manufactured in the South Carolina plant should immediately stop using it and return any remaining product to their retailer, according to the FDA.
The range of date codes being reviewed are "Best By 01-March-07" through Best By " 11-June-07".
FDA also has discovered that some of the recalled product was exported to at least 29 countries, including countries within the European Union. These countries have been notified.
Diamond officials say they are doing what they can to help affected pet owners.
Diamond has promised to reimburse pet owners for vet bills and other costs associated with the aflatoxin poisoning, which officials now believe may include pets in Europe and other areas outside the country where the food is distributed. Personal Note
I am considered an animal lover. I have worked with the MSPCA for years as a foster parent and have adopted several dogs, cats, rabbits, goats, pig and birds over the years. One quest is to find the best quality food possible. I had one dog that suffered from skin allergies. Most of the vets think it is diet related. So far, after 3 years and a dozen different brands of "high quality" and "organic" food, we have not been able to help him. Is this a reflection of the overall quality of dog food? Was it mold related due to chronic ear infection when he was a puppy?
I guarantee your pets will live longer and healthier if you feed them human grade food. Would you feed your child pet food?