Pet owners advised against using the products
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has issued a product recall alert for Happy Hounds frozen raw dog food products owing to the presence of Salmonella.
The recall affects the following products:
| Product name | Batch code | Best before |
|---|---|---|
| Frozen chicken & beef sleeve dog food 1KG | 1205 | 3 September 2020 |
| Frozen chicken mince sleeve dog food 1KG | 1205 | 3 September 2020 |
| Frozen chicken mince dog food 2.5KG (bag of 4) | 1205 | 3 September 2020 |
In a statement, the FSA said: ‘Salmonella is a bacterium that can cause illness in humans and animals. The product could, therefore, carry a potential risk because of the presence of Salmonella, either through direct handling of the pet food or indirectly, for example from pet feeding bowls, utensils or contact with the faeces of animals.
‘In humans, symptoms caused by Salmonella usually include fever, diarrhoea and abdominal cramps. Infected animals may not necessarily display signs of illness, but symptoms can include diarrhoea.’
The FSA said that point of sale notices will be displayed in all retail stores that are selling these products. Pet owners are being advised to stop using them and to return them to the shop where they were bought for a full refund.
‘When handling and serving raw pet food it is always advised to clean utensils and feeding bowls thoroughly after use,’ the FSA added. Consumers should wash hands thoroughly after handling raw pet food, bowls, utensils or after contact with the faeces of animals.
'Raw pet food should be stored separately from any food (especially ready to eat foods). Care should be taken when defrosting to avoid cross-contamination of foods and surfaces.’
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
