FDA NEWS RELEASE

FDA Health Alert for Certain Pet Treats Made by Pet Carousel Products
may be contaminated with Salmonella

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is issuing this health alert to
warn consumers not to use Pig Ears and Beef Hooves pet treats
manufactured by Pet Carousel because the products may be contaminated
with Salmonella. The products were distributed nationwide in both bulk
and retail packaging for sale in pet food and retail chain stores. Pet
Carousel is based in Sanger, Calif.

The products were manufactured under conditions that facilitate
cross-contamination within batches or lots. Although no illnesses
associated with these products have been reported, the FDA is advising
consumers in possession of these products to not handle or feed them
to their pets.

The affected pig ear products were packaged under the brand names
Doggie Delight and Pet Carousel. The affected beef hooves were
packaged under the brand names Choo Hooves, Dentley’s, Doggie Delight,
and Pet Carousel. All sizes and all lots of these products made by Pet
Carousel are included in this alert.

During September 2009, the FDA conducted routine testing of pig ears
made by Pet Carousel. The test results detected a positive reading for
Salmonella. This prompted an FDA inspection of Pet Carousel’s
manufacturing facilities. During the inspection, the agency collected
additional pet treat samples. Further analysis found Salmonella
present in beef hooves, pig ears and in the manufacturing environment.

Salmonella can affect both humans and animals. People handling dry pet
food and/or pet treats can become infected with Salmonella, especially
if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact
with the treats or any surfaces exposed to these products. Consumers
should dispose of these products in a safe manner by securing them in
a covered trash receptacle.

Healthy people infected with Salmonella may experience some or all of
the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea,
abdominal cramping and fever. Although rare, Salmonella can result in
more serious ailments including arterial infections, endocarditis
(inflammation of the lining of the heart), arthritis, muscle pain, eye
irritation, and urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these
signs after having contact with this product should contact their
health care provider immediately.

Pets with Salmonella infections may become lethargic and have diarrhea
or bloody diarrhea, fever and vomiting. Some pets may only experience
a decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. Infected, but
otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or
humans. If your pet has consumed any of the affected products or is
experiencing any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian
immediately.

The FDA will continue to investigate this matter to determine the
source of the Salmonella contamination and offer updates as
appropriate.