United Pet Group is voluntarily recalling multiple brands of rawhide chew products for dogs for possible chemical contamination. There have been “very limited reports of pet illness” based on the volume of the products distributed, according to the announcement. These products were distributed to retail outlets and sold online in the United States.
The company found that some of its rawhide chew manufacturing facilities in Mexico and Columbia, and one of its suppliers in Brazil, were using a quaternary ammonium compound mixture as a processing aid. This is an anti-microbial chemical that is used for cleaning food processing equipment, but has not been approved in the U.S. as a processing aid in the production of rawhide dog chews.
The primary compliant has been an unpleasant odor. Dogs have been experiencing diarrhea and vomiting. Exposure to this chemical can cause reduced appetite, diarrhea, and vomiting in dogs that may require a veterinarian visit.
The recalled products are American Beefhide dog chew products that contain rawhide. The products recalled have lot codes that start with AH and with expiration dates of 06/01/2019 through 05/31/2020. Also recalled is Digest-eeze brand dog chews that contain rawhide. The lot codes for that product start with AH, AV, A, AI, AO, or AB, with expiration dates from 06/01/2019 through 05/31/2020. Finally, Healthy Hide dog chews (including Healthy Hide – Good-n-Fun and Healthy Hide – Good-n-Fit) are recalled. The recall includes all package sizes and weights.
If you purchased these products do not give them to your dog. Throw them away in a sealed container or take it back to the store where you bought it for a refund.