FDA Issued Caution on Chicken Jerky Products

Chicken jerky products --- such as chicken tenders or strips --- are popular treats for dogs. They can be pricey ranging from $4 for 3.5 oz. to $15 for 2-pounds bag. But they are well-loved by our canine friends so probably worth the price. As delicious as they are, I still avoided the chicken jerky treats ever since reading reports of melamine contamination and the FDA cautionary advisory last year.

Most dogs love these treats and what better time to indulge them than during the holidays? Among the Christmas presents was a bag of Smokehouse Chicken Breast Strips from my family.

Chistmas morning had me up researching chicken jerky strips, hoping that they are no longer on the suspect list. Unfortunately, the FDA had (renewed) released a cautionary statement on December 19, 2008 warning of potential illnesses associated with chicken jerky products imported from China.

Illness may appear within hours to days of eating the products. Signs include decreased appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, and increased water intake and urination.

Researchers have not been able to determine the cause(s) of the illness. No specific brands were named, only that they were imported from China.

I am sure there are many dogs eating chicken strips from China without any problems. However, I am not one to place my dog's health at risk for treats --- no matter how delicious they may be --- especially when there are alternatives.

So what if your dogs have to have those chicken strips? There may not be that many around but you can purchase those NOT made in China. According to their FAQ, Plato treats are made in the U.S., with ingredients from Europe and North America.

Be careful of similar brand names. For instance, Planet Blue Dog has Made in USA Smokehouse Chicken Breast Strips. The packaging is identical to the bag I received on Christmas minus the "Made in U.S.A." banner. The Smokehouse Chicken Breast Strips I received was from Smokehouse Pet Products, a company in Sun Valley, CA that imports some chicken treats from China.

For those who are handy in the kitchen, try making your own baked chicken strips. Warning: I tried making the chicken strips and got as far as slicing the fried chicken breast. The dogs decided they like the strips fine without the baking. Still, it may be a good alternative if you want to make a larger batch to save for later. However, I have not figured out how long these will keep --- perhaps a month in the fridge or longer if in the freezer?

Bottom line, if you want to safely treat your dogs to chicken jerky products, avoid those imported from China or made with ingredients from China.

Be vigilant and read labels.

Happy Holidays!

My niece reminded me last night that we have not posted anything about holiday safety for pets. Of course, she said that after Kobi, my mom's poodle, got into the trash and ate some unidentified foodstuff.

So while I take Kobi for a walk to see if there are any "presents" from last night feast, here is last year's post on Holiday Safety.

Merry Christmas!

Daisy Avenue Christmas Day Dogs on Parade

This Saturday December 13th, the Wrigley Area Neighborhood Alliance invites dogs & their companions to march in the 55th Annual Wrigley Daisy Avenue Parade. Check-in is between 3:30-4:45PM south of Willow Street on Daisy Avenue (near Bank of America/between 710 FWY & Magnolia). For more information or to pre-register, contact Joan at 562-355-8679.

Eukanuba Dog Show This Weekend

The American Kennel Club's Eukanuba Dog Show, aired internationally and featuring the world's biggest dog show prize ($50,000.00 for the winner alone), will be held just down the street from us at the Long Beach Convention Center this weekend. For those unable to attend, the show will be aired on Animal Planet in a couple of weeks. Good luck to all!

Long Beach Press Telegram: LB Animal Control Looks for Dogs' Licenses

According to this article from December 3rd Long Beach Press Telegram, Long Beach Animal Control is canvassing door to door for dogs' licenses. Remember, it is required by law that all dogs over 4 months of age in the City of Long Beach be licensed. More information can also be found at the Long Beach Animal Control Website.