The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a warning to dog owners regarding the potential danger posed by treats that may be contaminated with “metal objects.” The warning follows a voluntary recall announcement for “Green Tripe” dog treats made by Virginia-based TDBBS LLC and sold under the “Barkworthies” and “Best Bully Sticks” brand labels. The treats were sold nationwide from February 2024 to May 2024, and the recall was issued due to the potential presence of foreign metal objects that could pose a health hazard to dogs. While there have been no reports of pet injury or illness related to the affected product, owners are advised to monitor their pets for any signs of illness or unusual behavior.
The recall applies to specific lots of the Barkworthies and Best Bully Sticks brand “Green Tripe” treats with certain UPC codes, item numbers, lot codes, and “best by” dates. Pet owners who have purchased these products are urged to immediately stop feeding the treats to their pets and discard them. The company is working with distributors and retailers to ensure that the affected products are no longer sold and have been removed from inventory. Customers can contact TDBBS LLC via phone or email for more information on returning the recalled treats and addressing any concerns.
The exact type of “foreign metal objects” that may be present in the treats, as well as where they originated from, remains unclear. The FDA records show a significant increase in recalls for pet food products in recent years, with some recalls initiated over concerns of potential contamination with pathogens or other dangerous substances, while others were due to suspected foreign metal objects. For example, over 300 bags of “Pedigree Adult Complete Nutrition Grilled Steak & Vegetable Flavor Dry Dog Food” were recalled last month after being found to contain metal pieces. It is important for pet owners to stay informed about recalls and take appropriate action to ensure the safety of their animals.
If a dog has consumed the affected product, owners should monitor for signs of illness or unusual behavior and contact a veterinarian if any concerns arise. Pet owners should be vigilant in checking the UPC codes, item numbers, lot codes, and “best by” dates of the treats they purchase to ensure they are not part of any recalls. The health and safety of pets are a top priority for the FDA and pet food manufacturers, who work to address any potential risks and protect animals from harm. By staying informed and following recall instructions, pet owners can help prevent their pets from being exposed to dangerous contaminants or foreign objects in their food.