Assignment Four - Pet Food Scares

Anywhere, USA.

Pet owners across the United States and all over North America continue to be alarmed by the recent findings of tainted pet food. The FDA announced on March 30th, that a chemical called melamine, used in the production of certain fertilizers and plastics, has been found to be a possible cause. Melamine is contained in the wheat gluten used to make some pet foods.

Scientists aren't sure why the chemical is showing up in the autopsies of animals who have died, but its common occurrence points to it being the likely culprit in these untimely deaths. Its origin has been traced to a supplier of pet food manufacturers in China, notably the Menu Foods Corporation.

I spoke with Melisa, a veterinary assistant at the Animal Emergency Center of Gwinnett, who was kind enough to offer more information. She stated that all dry foods so far have been found to be okay, and that only the wet food products have been affected. Pet owners can go to several websites for the complete listings, but she noted one in particular: www.Menufoods.com. There is also a link to Menu Foods website at www.aecog.com, her company's site.

I asked her if the clinic has seen an increase in pet owners bringing their four-legged loved ones in to be checked for possible contamination, and she said yes. Sadly, she noted that there have been some deaths related to the toxicity of the food, which causes kidney failure in the animals affected.

When asked what are some of the signs of possible exposure, Melisa pointed out vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite and lethargy as the most obvious. Another warning sign is excessive thirst, which could also be an indication of diabetes or other diseases. She said it is best for an owner to bring their pet in if they have any concern, as blood work and other examination would be necessary to evaluate each unique situation.

"We are open most hours when your regular veterinarians are closed, and we are staffed with veterinarians and other professionals who can determine the best care for your pet," she said. "Also, there is a website called 'Petpoisonhelpline' which provides 24-hour updated information for all pet owners; not just dogs and cats, but many other small animals, including birds and reptiles. Their phone number is 800-213-6680," she added.

I checked out the Pet Poison website, which states if there is any suspicion as to a pet's health, the owner should bring them in immediately to their local DVM, or Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. There, an evaluation of kidney function can be performed, and if necessary, treatment for acute renal failure can be implemented to hopefully save the pet's life.

Until further information is made available, everyone is advised to keep a close eye on the behavior of their pets, and note any changes in their eating and drinking habits, along with other general signs of health.


Catherine Farmer
Freelance reporter