Pet Safety Lady wanted you to know about the Pet Food Recall
Purina Mills Undertakes Limited Recall of Strategy® Horse Feed and Layena® Poultry Feed
Contact:
Jeanne Forbis: 651-481-2071 or 612-308-5441
David Karpinski: 651-481-2360
Products Distributed in Mississippi, Arkansas, Kentucky,Tennessee, Alabama, Indiana, Missouri and Virginia
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- St. Louis, Mo., April 16, 2010 -- Purina Mills, LLC, is voluntarily recalling two specific lots of 50-pound bags of Strategy® Professional Formula GX horse feed and one lot of Layena® SunFresh® Recipe Pellet poultry feed. The recall is being implemented due to the discovery of metal fragments in a limited number of bags from one of the Strategy® product lots. At the time the recall was issued, five customer complaints had been received. No animal health issues had been reported.
The products being recalled were manufactured in Nashville, Tennessee, on March 24-25, 2010. They were shipped to retailers and dealers in Mississippi, Arkansas, Alabama, Tennessee, Kentucky, Indiana, Missouri and Virginia.
Only the following specific products and lot numbers are involved in the recall:
Formula No. Item No. Description Lot Number
35SS 0066547 Strategy® Professional Formula GX 0MAR24NST1A1
35SS 0066547 Strategy® Professional Formula GX 0MAR24NST2A1
61R3 0056922 Layena® SunFresh® Recipe Pellet 0MAR25NST2A1
The lot number is found on the sewing strip of each bag and is interpreted as follows:
0=Year / MAR=Month / 24=Day of Month / NST1A1=Plant Code.
Customers with products that do not have the specified lot numbers are not affected by the recall.
Customers who have purchased the recalled products should not store or feed the products and are asked to return unused product to their dealer for replacement.
Customer questions or concerns may be directed to the company's Nashville Customer Service Office at 800-424-5234.
FDA posts press releases and other notices of recalls and market withdrawals from the firms involved as a service to consumers, the media, and other interested parties. FDA does not endorse either the product or the company.
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Thursday, April 29, 2010
Pet Safety Lady Likes the Article from FDA "How to report a pet food complaint"
Pet Safety Lady wants you to know how to report a pet food complaint and with the help of the FDA's guidelines in the article it makes it easy to understand how.
How to Report a Pet Food Complaint
To report complaints about pet food (and other animal feed), please contact your state’s FDA Consumer Complaint Coordinators. When reporting, provide the following information to the Consumer Complaint Coordinator.
We realize you may not have all the information requested below and we encourage you to report your complaint with whatever information you have available.
Detailed Information about the Product
Consumers often transfer dry pet food into other containers for easier handling. It is important to save the original packaging until the pet food has been consumed. The packaging contains IMPORTANT information often needed to identify the variety of pet food, the manufacturer plant, and the production date.
• Exact name of the product and product description (as stated on the product label)
• Type of container (e.g. box, bag, can, pouch, etc.)
• Product intended to be refrigerated, frozen, or stored at room temperature
• Lot number - This number is often hard to find and difficult to read. It is stamped onto the product packaging and typically includes a combination of letters and numbers, and is always in close proximity to the expiration date (if the product has an expiration date). The lot number is very important as it helps us determined the manufacturing plant as well as the production date.
• Best by or expiration date
• UPC code (also known as the bar code)
• Net weight
• Purchase date and exact location where purchased.
• Results of any laboratory testing performed on the pet food product
• How was the food stored, prepared, and handled?
Description of the problem with the product. Examples include:
• Foul odor, off color
• Swollen can or pouch, leaking container
• Foreign object found in the product. Describe.
If you think your pet has become sick or injured as a result of consuming a pet food product also provide the following information about your pet
• Species (dog, cat, rabbit, fish, bird, other)
• Age, weight, breed, pregnant, spayed/neutered
• Previous health status of pet
• Any pre-existing conditions your pet has
• Do you give your pet any other foods, treats, dietary supplements or drugs?
• How much of the product does your pet normally consume?
• How much of the “suspect” product was consumed from the package?
• How much product remains?
• Clinical signs exhibited by your pet (examples: vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy)
• How soon after consuming the product did the clinical signs appear?
• Veterinarian’s contact information, diagnosis and medical records for your pet.
• Results of any diagnostic laboratory testing performed on your pet
• How many pets consuming the product exhibited clinical symptoms?
• Are there any pets that consumed the product and are not affected?
• Does your pet spend time outdoors unsupervised?
• Why do you suspect the pet food caused the illness?
How to Report a Pet Food Complaint
To report complaints about pet food (and other animal feed), please contact your state’s FDA Consumer Complaint Coordinators. When reporting, provide the following information to the Consumer Complaint Coordinator.
We realize you may not have all the information requested below and we encourage you to report your complaint with whatever information you have available.
Detailed Information about the Product
Consumers often transfer dry pet food into other containers for easier handling. It is important to save the original packaging until the pet food has been consumed. The packaging contains IMPORTANT information often needed to identify the variety of pet food, the manufacturer plant, and the production date.
• Exact name of the product and product description (as stated on the product label)
• Type of container (e.g. box, bag, can, pouch, etc.)
• Product intended to be refrigerated, frozen, or stored at room temperature
• Lot number - This number is often hard to find and difficult to read. It is stamped onto the product packaging and typically includes a combination of letters and numbers, and is always in close proximity to the expiration date (if the product has an expiration date). The lot number is very important as it helps us determined the manufacturing plant as well as the production date.
• Best by or expiration date
• UPC code (also known as the bar code)
• Net weight
• Purchase date and exact location where purchased.
• Results of any laboratory testing performed on the pet food product
• How was the food stored, prepared, and handled?
Description of the problem with the product. Examples include:
• Foul odor, off color
• Swollen can or pouch, leaking container
• Foreign object found in the product. Describe.
If you think your pet has become sick or injured as a result of consuming a pet food product also provide the following information about your pet
• Species (dog, cat, rabbit, fish, bird, other)
• Age, weight, breed, pregnant, spayed/neutered
• Previous health status of pet
• Any pre-existing conditions your pet has
• Do you give your pet any other foods, treats, dietary supplements or drugs?
• How much of the product does your pet normally consume?
• How much of the “suspect” product was consumed from the package?
• How much product remains?
• Clinical signs exhibited by your pet (examples: vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy)
• How soon after consuming the product did the clinical signs appear?
• Veterinarian’s contact information, diagnosis and medical records for your pet.
• Results of any diagnostic laboratory testing performed on your pet
• How many pets consuming the product exhibited clinical symptoms?
• Are there any pets that consumed the product and are not affected?
• Does your pet spend time outdoors unsupervised?
• Why do you suspect the pet food caused the illness?
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Pet Safety Lady Pleased about FDA article Reporting Adverse Drug Experience in your Pets
How to Report An Adverse Drug Experience, Veterinarians and animal owners are encouraged to report adverse experiences and product failures to the government Agency that regulates the product in question. Pretesting by the manufacturer and review of the data by the government does not guarantee absolute safety and effectiveness due to the inherent limitation imposed by testing the product on a limited population of animals. CVM encourages you to contact the manufacturer of a suspect product. Reporting information for the following product categories:
Animal Drugs and Devices Veterinarians and animal owners may report adverse drug experiences to FDA by:
You should first call the drug company to report an ADE for an FDA-approved animal drug. Drug company phone numbers can usually be obtained from product labeling. Inform the drug company that you wish to report an ADE, and ask to speak to a technical services veterinarian. The technical services veterinarian should ask a series of questions about the event, complete the FDA 1932 form, and forward the report to CVM. In addition, the technical services veterinarian may also contact the veterinarian who treated your pet to obtain more information regarding the ADE. If the drug is not FDA-approved for animal administration, or if it is approved but you do not wish to contact the manufacturer, the report may be submitted directly to the FDA on Form 1932a. Reports should preferably include a good medical history, all concomitant drugs the animal has been given, any recent surgical procedures, and as much in the way of clinical findings as is possible. Clinical findings would include veterinary exam, clinical chemistries, complete blood counts, urinalysis, fecal exams, radiographic results, and hemodynamic data such as blood pressure, any other pressure measurements in or around the heart, and neurologic assessments.
Submitting FORM FDA 1932a, "Veterinary Adverse Experience, Lack of Effectiveness or Product Defect Report". The 1932a is a pre-addressed, prepaid postage form which can be completed and dropped in the mail. This form may be obtained by the highlighted title above or by writing to: ADE Reporting System Center for Veterinary Medicine U.S. Food & Drug Administration 7500 Standish Place Rockville, MD 20855-2773 The Center may occasionally need more detailed information about an incident and the reporter may be called by a CVM staff veterinarian.
Telephoning the Center for Veterinary Medicine: 1-888-FDA-VETS IMPORTANT: The identities of all persons and animals is held in strict confidence by FDA and protected to the fullest extent of the law. The reporter's identity may be shared with the manufacturer or distributor unless requested otherwise. However, FDA will not disclose the reporter's identity to a request from the public, pursuant to the Freedom of Information Act. Leave your name, address, phone number and the brand name of the drug involved. Ask to have a 1932a form sent or ask for the phone number of the drug company you should call to report the problem.
Animal Biologics: Vaccines, Bacterins and Diagnostic Kits U.S. Department of Agriculture (800) 752-6255
Pesticides: Topically Applied External Parasiticides U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (800) 858-PEST
Animal Drugs and Devices Veterinarians and animal owners may report adverse drug experiences to FDA by:
You should first call the drug company to report an ADE for an FDA-approved animal drug. Drug company phone numbers can usually be obtained from product labeling. Inform the drug company that you wish to report an ADE, and ask to speak to a technical services veterinarian. The technical services veterinarian should ask a series of questions about the event, complete the FDA 1932 form, and forward the report to CVM. In addition, the technical services veterinarian may also contact the veterinarian who treated your pet to obtain more information regarding the ADE. If the drug is not FDA-approved for animal administration, or if it is approved but you do not wish to contact the manufacturer, the report may be submitted directly to the FDA on Form 1932a. Reports should preferably include a good medical history, all concomitant drugs the animal has been given, any recent surgical procedures, and as much in the way of clinical findings as is possible. Clinical findings would include veterinary exam, clinical chemistries, complete blood counts, urinalysis, fecal exams, radiographic results, and hemodynamic data such as blood pressure, any other pressure measurements in or around the heart, and neurologic assessments.
Submitting FORM FDA 1932a, "Veterinary Adverse Experience, Lack of Effectiveness or Product Defect Report". The 1932a is a pre-addressed, prepaid postage form which can be completed and dropped in the mail. This form may be obtained by the highlighted title above or by writing to: ADE Reporting System Center for Veterinary Medicine U.S. Food & Drug Administration 7500 Standish Place Rockville, MD 20855-2773 The Center may occasionally need more detailed information about an incident and the reporter may be called by a CVM staff veterinarian.
Telephoning the Center for Veterinary Medicine: 1-888-FDA-VETS IMPORTANT: The identities of all persons and animals is held in strict confidence by FDA and protected to the fullest extent of the law. The reporter's identity may be shared with the manufacturer or distributor unless requested otherwise. However, FDA will not disclose the reporter's identity to a request from the public, pursuant to the Freedom of Information Act. Leave your name, address, phone number and the brand name of the drug involved. Ask to have a 1932a form sent or ask for the phone number of the drug company you should call to report the problem.
Animal Biologics: Vaccines, Bacterins and Diagnostic Kits U.S. Department of Agriculture (800) 752-6255
Pesticides: Topically Applied External Parasiticides U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (800) 858-PEST
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Pet Safety Lady agrees with FDA Treating Pain for your Dogs
According to the FDA here is an article about treating pain for your dog, Pet Safety Lady agrees this is very important information everyone with a dog should read and know.
Keeping Your Best Friend Active, Safe, And Pain Free
Controlling your dog’s pain is essential to his overall well-being. Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) are a class of drugs commonly used to control pain and inflammation in dogs. NSAIDs help many dogs lead more comfortable lives.
What are NSAIDs?
NSAIDs help to control signs of arthritis, including inflammation, swelling, stiffness, and joint pain. Inflammation—the body’s response to irritation or injury—is characterized by redness, warmth, swelling, and pain. NSAIDs work by blocking the production of prostaglandins, chemicals produced by the body that cause inflammation. Some NSAIDs may also be used to control the pain and inflammation following surgery.
Your veterinarian may prescribe an NSAID to treat the pain of osteoarthritis in your dog or to control pain following a surgical procedure.
Veterinary NSAIDs approved for use in dogs:
• ETOGESIC (etodolac)
• RIMADYL (carprofen)
• METACAM (meloxicam)
• DERAMAXX (deracoxib)
• PREVICOX (firocoxib)
• ZUBRIN (tepoxalin)
• NOVOX (carprofen)
In the United States, there are no veterinary NSAIDs approved for oral use in cats.
What should you discuss with your veterinarian?
NSAIDs offer pain relief and improved quality of life to many dogs. However, before giving an NSAID, or any drug, you should first talk to your veterinarian.
You should discuss:
• what the NSAID is being prescribed for
• how much to give
• how long to give it
• possible side effects
• what to avoid while your dog is taking an NSAID
• what tests are needed before giving an NSAID to your dog
• how often should your dog be re-examined
• your dog’s previous medical history and any previous drug reactions
• all medications and products your dog currently receives
What should you know before giving your dog an NSAID?
• Never give aspirin or corticosteroids along with an NSAID to your dog.
• NSAIDs should be approached cautiously in dogs with kidney, liver, heart and intestinal problems.
• Never give your dog an NSAID unless directed by your veterinarian.
• Don’t assume an NSAID for one dog is safe to give to another dog. Always consult your veterinarian before using any medication in your pet.
• Only give the NSAID as prescribed by your veterinarian. Do not increase the dose, the frequency, or the length of time you use the drug unless first discussing this with your veterinarian.
What side effects should you watch for?
Most NSAID-side effects are mild, but some can be serious, including death in rare situations. Common side effects seen with the use of NSAIDs in dogs may affect the kidneys, liver, and gastrointestinal tract and may include:
• Not eating or eating less
• Lethargy, depression, changes in behavior
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea, black tarry-colored stool
• Yellowing of gums, skin, or the whites of the eyes
• Change in drinking
• Changes in skin (scabs, redness, or scratching)
What to do?
If you suspect a possible side effect to an NSAID, STOP giving the drug
to your dog and call your veterinarian immediately!
When Giving Your Best Friend an NSAID, Remember these Signs:
Behavior Changes
Eating Less
Skin Redness, Scabs
Tarry Stool/Diarrhea/Vomiting
STOP the Drug & Call Your Veterinarian!
Keeping Your Best Friend Active, Safe, And Pain Free
Controlling your dog’s pain is essential to his overall well-being. Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) are a class of drugs commonly used to control pain and inflammation in dogs. NSAIDs help many dogs lead more comfortable lives.
What are NSAIDs?
NSAIDs help to control signs of arthritis, including inflammation, swelling, stiffness, and joint pain. Inflammation—the body’s response to irritation or injury—is characterized by redness, warmth, swelling, and pain. NSAIDs work by blocking the production of prostaglandins, chemicals produced by the body that cause inflammation. Some NSAIDs may also be used to control the pain and inflammation following surgery.
Your veterinarian may prescribe an NSAID to treat the pain of osteoarthritis in your dog or to control pain following a surgical procedure.
Veterinary NSAIDs approved for use in dogs:
• ETOGESIC (etodolac)
• RIMADYL (carprofen)
• METACAM (meloxicam)
• DERAMAXX (deracoxib)
• PREVICOX (firocoxib)
• ZUBRIN (tepoxalin)
• NOVOX (carprofen)
In the United States, there are no veterinary NSAIDs approved for oral use in cats.
What should you discuss with your veterinarian?
NSAIDs offer pain relief and improved quality of life to many dogs. However, before giving an NSAID, or any drug, you should first talk to your veterinarian.
You should discuss:
• what the NSAID is being prescribed for
• how much to give
• how long to give it
• possible side effects
• what to avoid while your dog is taking an NSAID
• what tests are needed before giving an NSAID to your dog
• how often should your dog be re-examined
• your dog’s previous medical history and any previous drug reactions
• all medications and products your dog currently receives
What should you know before giving your dog an NSAID?
• Never give aspirin or corticosteroids along with an NSAID to your dog.
• NSAIDs should be approached cautiously in dogs with kidney, liver, heart and intestinal problems.
• Never give your dog an NSAID unless directed by your veterinarian.
• Don’t assume an NSAID for one dog is safe to give to another dog. Always consult your veterinarian before using any medication in your pet.
• Only give the NSAID as prescribed by your veterinarian. Do not increase the dose, the frequency, or the length of time you use the drug unless first discussing this with your veterinarian.
What side effects should you watch for?
Most NSAID-side effects are mild, but some can be serious, including death in rare situations. Common side effects seen with the use of NSAIDs in dogs may affect the kidneys, liver, and gastrointestinal tract and may include:
• Not eating or eating less
• Lethargy, depression, changes in behavior
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea, black tarry-colored stool
• Yellowing of gums, skin, or the whites of the eyes
• Change in drinking
• Changes in skin (scabs, redness, or scratching)
What to do?
If you suspect a possible side effect to an NSAID, STOP giving the drug
to your dog and call your veterinarian immediately!
When Giving Your Best Friend an NSAID, Remember these Signs:
Behavior Changes
Eating Less
Skin Redness, Scabs
Tarry Stool/Diarrhea/Vomiting
STOP the Drug & Call Your Veterinarian!
Monday, April 26, 2010
Pet Safety Lady agrees with FDA Purchasing Buyer Beware of Buying Pet Drugs Online
This article appears on FDA's Consumer Health Information Web page, which features the latest on all FDA-regulated products.
• Red Flags
• NSAIDS and Heartworm Preventives
• Tips for Buying Pet Drugs Online
"Discount pet drugs—no prescription required" may appeal to pet owners surfing the Web, but FDA experts say it can be risky to buy drugs online from sites that tout this message and others like it.
Some of the Internet sites that sell pet drugs represent legitimate, reputable pharmacies, says Martine Hartogensis, D.V.M., deputy director of the Office of Surveillance and Compliance in FDA's Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM). But others are fronts for unscrupulous businesses operating against the law.
FDA has found companies that sell unapproved pet drugs and counterfeit pet products, make fraudulent claims, dispense prescription drugs without requiring a prescription, and sell expired drugs.
Pet owners who purchase drugs from these companies may think they are saving money, says Hartogensis, but in reality, they may be short-changing their pet's health and putting its life at risk.
CVM regulates the manufacture and distribution of animal drugs, while individual state pharmacy boards regulate the dispensing of prescription veterinary products.
Red Flags
Some foreign Internet pharmacies advertise that veterinary prescription drugs are available to U.S. citizens without a prescription. But, says Hartogensis, "There is a risk of the drugs not being FDA-approved."
A foreign or domestic pharmacy may claim that one of its veterinarians on staff will "evaluate" the pet after looking over a form filled out by the pet owner, and then prescribe the drug. "A veterinarian should physically examine an animal prior to making a diagnosis to determine the appropriate therapy," says Hartogensis.
CVM is especially concerned that pet owners are going online to buy two types of commonly used prescription veterinary drugs—nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and heartworm preventives.
"Both drugs can be dangerous if there is no professional involvement," says Hartogensis. "It's not generally a concern if the owner uses a legitimate online pharmacy and mails in a prescription from their veterinarian, who is monitoring the animal. But if there is no veterinarian–client–patient relationship, it's a dangerous practice."
NSAIDS and Heartworm Preventives
Veterinarians often prescribe NSAIDs to relieve pain in dogs. NSAIDs should not be purchased on the Internet without a veterinarian's involvement because
• dogs should undergo blood testing and a thorough physical examination before starting NSAIDs
• dogs should be monitored by a veterinarian while they are taking NSAIDs
• veterinarians should discuss possible side effects of NSAIDs with the owner
• the prescription should be accompanied by a Client Information Sheet that explains important safety information to the owner
Heartworm disease is a potentially fatal condition transmitted by the bite of a mosquito that is carrying infected larvae of the heartworm parasite. Dogs, cats, and ferrets can get heartworm. Heartworm preventives, given daily, monthly, or semiannually, depending on the product, kill the larvae before they become adult worms.
The American Heartworm Society recommends
• using heartworm medication for dogs year-round, no matter where you live in the United States
• getting dogs tested yearly to make sure they're not infected with heartworm
"Testing is important even in dogs regularly treated with heartworm preventive products due to the occasional reports of product ineffectiveness," says Hartogensis. An Internet pharmacy veterinarian cannot draw blood from the animal to perform the test. If the test isn't done, a pet owner could be giving heartworm preventives to a dog that has heartworms, potentially leading to severe reactions.
Tips for Buying Pet Drugs Online
• Order from a Web site that belongs to a Vet-VIPPS accredited pharmacy. Vet-VIPPS—the Veterinary-Verified Internet Pharmacy Practice Sites—is a voluntary accreditation program of the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP). NABP gives the Vet-VIPPS seal to online pharmacies that dispense prescription animal drugs and comply with NABP's strict criteria, including federal and state licensing and inspection requirements, protecting patient confidentiality, quality assurance, and validity of prescription orders. Look for the Vet-VIPPS seal displayed on a pharmacy's Web site or check with NABP (click on "Accreditation Programs") to find out if a pharmacy is Vet-VIPPS accredited. Because this is a new program, begun in 2009, a small number of pharmacies are currently Vet-VIPPS accredited.
• Order from an outsourced prescription management service that your veterinarian uses. These state-licensed Internet pharmacy services work directly with the veterinarian, require that a prescription be written by the veterinarian, and support the veterinarian-client-patient relationship. Ask your veterinary hospital if it uses an Internet pharmacy service.
• Red Flags
• NSAIDS and Heartworm Preventives
• Tips for Buying Pet Drugs Online
"Discount pet drugs—no prescription required" may appeal to pet owners surfing the Web, but FDA experts say it can be risky to buy drugs online from sites that tout this message and others like it.
Some of the Internet sites that sell pet drugs represent legitimate, reputable pharmacies, says Martine Hartogensis, D.V.M., deputy director of the Office of Surveillance and Compliance in FDA's Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM). But others are fronts for unscrupulous businesses operating against the law.
FDA has found companies that sell unapproved pet drugs and counterfeit pet products, make fraudulent claims, dispense prescription drugs without requiring a prescription, and sell expired drugs.
Pet owners who purchase drugs from these companies may think they are saving money, says Hartogensis, but in reality, they may be short-changing their pet's health and putting its life at risk.
CVM regulates the manufacture and distribution of animal drugs, while individual state pharmacy boards regulate the dispensing of prescription veterinary products.
Red Flags
Some foreign Internet pharmacies advertise that veterinary prescription drugs are available to U.S. citizens without a prescription. But, says Hartogensis, "There is a risk of the drugs not being FDA-approved."
A foreign or domestic pharmacy may claim that one of its veterinarians on staff will "evaluate" the pet after looking over a form filled out by the pet owner, and then prescribe the drug. "A veterinarian should physically examine an animal prior to making a diagnosis to determine the appropriate therapy," says Hartogensis.
CVM is especially concerned that pet owners are going online to buy two types of commonly used prescription veterinary drugs—nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and heartworm preventives.
"Both drugs can be dangerous if there is no professional involvement," says Hartogensis. "It's not generally a concern if the owner uses a legitimate online pharmacy and mails in a prescription from their veterinarian, who is monitoring the animal. But if there is no veterinarian–client–patient relationship, it's a dangerous practice."
NSAIDS and Heartworm Preventives
Veterinarians often prescribe NSAIDs to relieve pain in dogs. NSAIDs should not be purchased on the Internet without a veterinarian's involvement because
• dogs should undergo blood testing and a thorough physical examination before starting NSAIDs
• dogs should be monitored by a veterinarian while they are taking NSAIDs
• veterinarians should discuss possible side effects of NSAIDs with the owner
• the prescription should be accompanied by a Client Information Sheet that explains important safety information to the owner
Heartworm disease is a potentially fatal condition transmitted by the bite of a mosquito that is carrying infected larvae of the heartworm parasite. Dogs, cats, and ferrets can get heartworm. Heartworm preventives, given daily, monthly, or semiannually, depending on the product, kill the larvae before they become adult worms.
The American Heartworm Society recommends
• using heartworm medication for dogs year-round, no matter where you live in the United States
• getting dogs tested yearly to make sure they're not infected with heartworm
"Testing is important even in dogs regularly treated with heartworm preventive products due to the occasional reports of product ineffectiveness," says Hartogensis. An Internet pharmacy veterinarian cannot draw blood from the animal to perform the test. If the test isn't done, a pet owner could be giving heartworm preventives to a dog that has heartworms, potentially leading to severe reactions.
Tips for Buying Pet Drugs Online
• Order from a Web site that belongs to a Vet-VIPPS accredited pharmacy. Vet-VIPPS—the Veterinary-Verified Internet Pharmacy Practice Sites—is a voluntary accreditation program of the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP). NABP gives the Vet-VIPPS seal to online pharmacies that dispense prescription animal drugs and comply with NABP's strict criteria, including federal and state licensing and inspection requirements, protecting patient confidentiality, quality assurance, and validity of prescription orders. Look for the Vet-VIPPS seal displayed on a pharmacy's Web site or check with NABP (click on "Accreditation Programs") to find out if a pharmacy is Vet-VIPPS accredited. Because this is a new program, begun in 2009, a small number of pharmacies are currently Vet-VIPPS accredited.
• Order from an outsourced prescription management service that your veterinarian uses. These state-licensed Internet pharmacy services work directly with the veterinarian, require that a prescription be written by the veterinarian, and support the veterinarian-client-patient relationship. Ask your veterinary hospital if it uses an Internet pharmacy service.
Saturday, April 24, 2010
TOP 10 Pet Travel TIPS
Top Ten Tips for Traveling with your Pet
Christina Selter “Pet Safety Lady”, like millions of Americans, loves pets. Known throughout the country as the Pet Safety Lady, Selter is the founder of Bark Buckle UP®, an organization dedicated to pet travel safety awareness. On her website barkbuckleup.com Selter advises, “Be Bmart Ride Safe® in your car, boat or RV. From point A to point B, get there safe and enjoy the ride.”
Here are Selter’s top ten tips for traveling with your pet:
Before leaving the house, make sure you’ve packed the ten essentials for pet travel:
1. Pet food
2. Clean water
3. Pet medicine
4. Tags with current information
5. Leash
6. Bedding
7. First aid kit
8. Pets shots record and photo
9. Travel bowls
10. Poop bags
Never leave your pet in a vehicle unattended; it’s easy for the temperature inside a car to rise to more than 100 degrees within just a few minutes.
Make sure your pets are road-trip ready with the proper pet travel gear, such as crates and travel harnesses.
If you’re flying with your pet, plan ahead. Most airlines only allow a certain number of pets per flight. Also keep in mind the airlines often charge extra fees and impose size restrictions and specific carrier requirements for animals.
During the summer months, pavement, rocks, and sand can become too hot to handle. Keep a few sets of disposable booties on hand to protect DUKE's feet from frying.
Does your dog enjoy going for a swim? What dog doesn’t? Make sure to put a life vest on DUKE before he goes bounding into the water.
Put a life vest on DUKE even if he’s just surf-watching inside a boat.
Does the hotel where you’re headed allow pets? Make sure it does before booking the room.
When packing for your room in the pet-friendly hotel, make sure you bring along a sign to place on your door that warns “Pets Inside!” This way, the hotel cleaning person will know to watch for animals before entering the room.
Have a great trip! Check back with us for more pet safety tips.
Christina Selter “Pet Safety Lady”, like millions of Americans, loves pets. Known throughout the country as the Pet Safety Lady, Selter is the founder of Bark Buckle UP®, an organization dedicated to pet travel safety awareness. On her website barkbuckleup.com Selter advises, “Be Bmart Ride Safe® in your car, boat or RV. From point A to point B, get there safe and enjoy the ride.”
Here are Selter’s top ten tips for traveling with your pet:Before leaving the house, make sure you’ve packed the ten essentials for pet travel:
1. Pet food
2. Clean water
3. Pet medicine
4. Tags with current information
5. Leash
6. Bedding
7. First aid kit
8. Pets shots record and photo
9. Travel bowls
10. Poop bags
Never leave your pet in a vehicle unattended; it’s easy for the temperature inside a car to rise to more than 100 degrees within just a few minutes.
Make sure your pets are road-trip ready with the proper pet travel gear, such as crates and travel harnesses.
If you’re flying with your pet, plan ahead. Most airlines only allow a certain number of pets per flight. Also keep in mind the airlines often charge extra fees and impose size restrictions and specific carrier requirements for animals.
During the summer months, pavement, rocks, and sand can become too hot to handle. Keep a few sets of disposable booties on hand to protect DUKE's feet from frying.
Does your dog enjoy going for a swim? What dog doesn’t? Make sure to put a life vest on DUKE before he goes bounding into the water.
Put a life vest on DUKE even if he’s just surf-watching inside a boat.
Does the hotel where you’re headed allow pets? Make sure it does before booking the room.
When packing for your room in the pet-friendly hotel, make sure you bring along a sign to place on your door that warns “Pets Inside!” This way, the hotel cleaning person will know to watch for animals before entering the room.
Have a great trip! Check back with us for more pet safety tips.
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Bad Weather, Rain and Pets oh my
According to Christina Selter “Pet Safety Lady” and founder of Bark Buckle UP, avoid walking dogs close to rushing water. As seen on national news just a month ago in Southern California during the rain a loose dog had fallen into the rushing water (Los Angeles River Basin) and was later rescued by the LAFD, however these types of stories don’t always end with a happy note. The temptation for some dogs to jump in and play might be too great to control.
Tip number one is to keep away from rising water, rushing water and of course dirty water. Stick to neighborhood sidewalks until creek water subsides and Carry treats to use act as a distraction to water-loving dogs
Stick to leads 6 feet in length or shorter easier to control your dog, always up to date information on their dog tag and some dogs will wear doggie rain coats (don’t forget you too need to have proper shoes and rain gear on to stay dry/warm).
Plan a shorter walk than normal and go for routes that have some trees to offer respite from big drops and steady sheets of rain. Don't stop walking your dog because of a mediocre storm. Your dog needs the exercise. Think of it this way: You get cabin fever. The same thing happens to your dog.
Clean water for you and your dog, you both need to keep hydrated, do not let your pet drink from run-off water or gutter water it can contain contaminants.
Have a quick-return plan in case the storm gets worse. The best way to be safer with pets is to PLAN, know your short cuts and pay attention.
Yes, dogs have fur, but it’s usually no more protective than a thin layer of clothes. Look for trees, bushes, awnings, homes or buildings to block some of the rain and wind in order for your dog to "do their business." Then upon returning home, offer extra treats, towel dry them, wipe feet/belly from any dirty water/contaminants and get them a warm bed to rest in.
Tip number one is to keep away from rising water, rushing water and of course dirty water. Stick to neighborhood sidewalks until creek water subsides and Carry treats to use act as a distraction to water-loving dogs
Stick to leads 6 feet in length or shorter easier to control your dog, always up to date information on their dog tag and some dogs will wear doggie rain coats (don’t forget you too need to have proper shoes and rain gear on to stay dry/warm).
Plan a shorter walk than normal and go for routes that have some trees to offer respite from big drops and steady sheets of rain. Don't stop walking your dog because of a mediocre storm. Your dog needs the exercise. Think of it this way: You get cabin fever. The same thing happens to your dog.
Clean water for you and your dog, you both need to keep hydrated, do not let your pet drink from run-off water or gutter water it can contain contaminants.
Have a quick-return plan in case the storm gets worse. The best way to be safer with pets is to PLAN, know your short cuts and pay attention.
Yes, dogs have fur, but it’s usually no more protective than a thin layer of clothes. Look for trees, bushes, awnings, homes or buildings to block some of the rain and wind in order for your dog to "do their business." Then upon returning home, offer extra treats, towel dry them, wipe feet/belly from any dirty water/contaminants and get them a warm bed to rest in.
Monday, April 12, 2010
Safe Handling Tips for Pet Foods & Treats for Pet Owners
Christina Selter "Pet Safety Lady" and founder of Bark Buckle UP agrees with the FDA that safe pet food handling tips will help to keep our pets and pet owners safer! See below the FDA tips they would like people to follow.
Consumers can take steps to help prevent foodborne illness, including Salmonella -related illness, when handling pet foods and treats. These products, like many other types of foods, can be susceptible to harmful bacterial contamination.
Salmonella in pet foods and treats can cause serious infections in dogs and cats, and in people too, especially children, older people, and those with compromised immune systems. Salmonella in pet foods and treats potentially can be transferred to people ingesting or handling the contaminated products.
FDA has stepped up its efforts to minimize the incidence of foodborne illness associated with pet foods and treats. Pet owners and consumers can also help reduce the likelihood of infection from contaminated pet foods and treats by following safe handling instructions:
Buying
• Purchase products in good condition, without signs of damage to the packaging such as dents or tears.
Preparation
• Wash your hands for 20 seconds with hot water and soap before and after handling pet foods and treats.
• Wash pet food bowls, dishes, and scooping utensils with soap and hot water after each use.
• Do not use the pet's feeding bowl as a scooping utensil—use a clean, dedicated scoop or spoon.
• Dispose of old or spoiled pet food products in a safe manner, such as in a securely tied plastic bag in a covered trash receptacle.
Storage
• Refrigerate promptly or discard any unused, leftover wet pet food. Refrigerators should be set at 40º F.
• Dry products should be stored in a cool, dry place—under 80º F.
• If possible, store dry pet food in its original bag inside a clean, dedicated plastic container with a lid, keeping the top of the bag folded closed.
• Keep pets away from food storage and preparation areas.
• Keep pets away from garbage and household trash.
Raw Food Diets
FDA does not advocate a raw meat, poultry, or seafood diet for pets, but is stepping up its efforts to minimize the risk such foods pose to animal and human health. The agency understands that some people prefer to feed these types of diets to their pets.
Consumers can take steps to help prevent foodborne illness, including Salmonella -related illness, when handling pet foods and treats. These products, like many other types of foods, can be susceptible to harmful bacterial contamination.
Salmonella in pet foods and treats can cause serious infections in dogs and cats, and in people too, especially children, older people, and those with compromised immune systems. Salmonella in pet foods and treats potentially can be transferred to people ingesting or handling the contaminated products.
FDA has stepped up its efforts to minimize the incidence of foodborne illness associated with pet foods and treats. Pet owners and consumers can also help reduce the likelihood of infection from contaminated pet foods and treats by following safe handling instructions:
Buying
• Purchase products in good condition, without signs of damage to the packaging such as dents or tears.
Preparation
• Wash your hands for 20 seconds with hot water and soap before and after handling pet foods and treats.
• Wash pet food bowls, dishes, and scooping utensils with soap and hot water after each use.
• Do not use the pet's feeding bowl as a scooping utensil—use a clean, dedicated scoop or spoon.
• Dispose of old or spoiled pet food products in a safe manner, such as in a securely tied plastic bag in a covered trash receptacle.
Storage
• Refrigerate promptly or discard any unused, leftover wet pet food. Refrigerators should be set at 40º F.
• Dry products should be stored in a cool, dry place—under 80º F.
• If possible, store dry pet food in its original bag inside a clean, dedicated plastic container with a lid, keeping the top of the bag folded closed.
• Keep pets away from food storage and preparation areas.
• Keep pets away from garbage and household trash.
Raw Food Diets
FDA does not advocate a raw meat, poultry, or seafood diet for pets, but is stepping up its efforts to minimize the risk such foods pose to animal and human health. The agency understands that some people prefer to feed these types of diets to their pets.
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Pet Safe Vehicle of Choice 2010 "TOP DOG"
New York, April 1, 2010 – Bark Buckle UP – the recognized leader and experts for pet travel safety – awarded the Pet Safe Choice Vehicle Awards “TOP DOG” today at the 2010 New York International Auto Show. 
This year, Bark Buckle UP’s founder Pet Safety Lady Christina Selter and her furry friends awarded “Top Dog” Pet Safe Vehicle of Choice and announced the Pet Safe Hotel, Retailer, and Airline of choice. During the presentation, Greg Kleva, host of Martha Stewart radio show “It’s a Dogs Life”, the Pet Safety Lady, and furry friends wearing the Doggie Seat Belt hopped in and out of cars and stole the show with their animal antics and demonstrations of dog and car travel safety.
This year’s Pet Safe winners included the Ford Edge (Vehicle of the Year); BassPro Shops (Retailer of the Year), Sheraton Hotels (Hotel of the Year) and Southwest Airlines (Airline of the Year).
“Most people don’t think about it, but in only a 35 mph accident with a 60-pound pet it becomes a 2,700 pound projectile. This will injure the pet, passengers, driver or the pet may escape the vehicle and cause a second accident or become agitated and bite the first responder that is on scene doing their job,” stated Selter.
The registered vehicles are evaluated on a variety of pet-related aspects, including how easily the vehicle accommodates animals and kennels of various sizes, ease of access to pet from within the vehicle, ease of pet entry and exit, ventilation for animals in the rear, as well as whether the vehicle has pet-friendly surfaces, adaptability for third party pet travel or safety gear. Ford received four out of the top ten honors for 2010 Pet Safe Vehicles of Choice List, including the Ford Transit Connect, Edge and Flex and the Lincoln MKT.
“With more than 340,000 vehicles sold since it was originally launched in late 2006, the Ford Edge has been meeting the needs of customers who demand style, technology, performance and capability in a compelling package,” said Burin. “We look ahead with excitement this summer to the arrival of the new 2011 Edge, which adds even more revolutionary technology and class-leading performance. And with a suite of safety features, flexible seating and nearly 70 cubic feet of cargo space, the Ford Edge is perfect for those traveling with pets.”
Doggie Seat Belt, the newest As Seen On TV product to offer real solutions to problems without breaking the bank. “When the weather is nice, you see dog heads hanging out the window all of the time,” said Anand “Andy” Khubani, President and CEO of Ideavillage Products Corp and distributor of the Doggie Seat Belt. “Since we all love our pets and enjoy taking them with us, Doggie Seat Belt was designed to be as easy and convenient as possible to buckle up our pets when they are in the car. This should help to decrease the chance of injury to a dog or passenger in the event of an accident.” The 2010 Pet Safe Vehicle of Choice TOP DOG Ford Edge award was accepted by Brett Burin Ford Edge Marketing Manager.
2010 Pet Safe Retailer, Hotel and Airline:
• BassPro Shops Unable to attend
• Sheraton Hotels on hand to accept the award Thomas Mituzas Director HR
• Southwest Airlines on hand to accept the award Amanda Udell Manager Marketing
Statistics:
• 35 MPH accident with a 60-pound pet unrestrained becomes a 2,700-pound projectile
• 98% of dogs do not travel properly restrained in a moving vehicle
• Driver distraction causes more accidents then any other issue
• 82% of pets travel on vacation with their owners
• Pet friendly lodging has increased 300% since 2005
• Over 70 million homes in America have a pet
###
Media Contact: Bark Buckle UP
Ashley 949-2959515
PR@BarkBuckleUP.com
High res photos http://www.BarkBuckleUP.com/media
About Christina Selter "Pet Safety Lady":” has been featured on more than 250 TV stations nationwide including National networks, as well as radio, print, and online venues. Recently featured in her first national TV commercial, produced several PSA’s and the Pet Safety seminar that will be attended by the public FREE at more then 4000 locations in the US and Canada summer 2010. Selter’s first children’s book, “Be Smart Ride Safe®”, will be published in 2010.
Pet Safety Lady founder of Bark Buckle UP and the Bark Buckle UP Charity, works closely with first responders, auto manufacturers, airline, marine and other pet experts to help educate, inform, and protect America’s pets. Pet Safety Lady travels the country teaching pet safety to the public and works with Police, Fire, National Guard, Coast Guard EMT, K9 units, FEMA dogs, animal services, pet rescues, and volunteers her time to help save pets lives. Her Bark10-4 program has delivered more then 8,000 pet oxygen masks to Fire Chiefs in the U.S. and Canada. She has been featured with many Fire and Police Chiefs in the media educating the public on pet safety and has frequently been the host of first responder press conferences nationwide.
About Ford Motor Company: Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 198,000 employees and about 90 plants worldwide, the company’s automotive brands include Ford, Lincoln, Mercury and Volvo. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford’s products, please visit www.ford.com.
About Ideavillage Products Corporation: Headquartered in Wayne, New Jersey, Ideavillage Products Corporation has been bringing innovative products to market under the As Seen On TV banner since 1999. Dedicated to providing affordable quality products offering solutions to life’s everyday problems, the As Seen On TV category has become on of today’s most popular line of consumer goods and include Doggie Seat Belt, Smooth Away, HD Vision WrapArounds, MicroTouch Magic, and more. All products are available directly while select products are available at food, drug, and mass retail outlets nationwide. Ideavillage actively supports charitable organizations such as the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, Cherish the Children Foundation, and more. For more information on the Doggie Seat Belt visit http://www.doggieseatbelt.com
Media Contact:
BarkBuckleUP
949 361 2275 (BARK)
Email Bark@BarkBuckleUP.com
- Be Smart Ride Safe®
This year, Bark Buckle UP’s founder Pet Safety Lady Christina Selter and her furry friends awarded “Top Dog” Pet Safe Vehicle of Choice and announced the Pet Safe Hotel, Retailer, and Airline of choice. During the presentation, Greg Kleva, host of Martha Stewart radio show “It’s a Dogs Life”, the Pet Safety Lady, and furry friends wearing the Doggie Seat Belt hopped in and out of cars and stole the show with their animal antics and demonstrations of dog and car travel safety.
This year’s Pet Safe winners included the Ford Edge (Vehicle of the Year); BassPro Shops (Retailer of the Year), Sheraton Hotels (Hotel of the Year) and Southwest Airlines (Airline of the Year).
“Most people don’t think about it, but in only a 35 mph accident with a 60-pound pet it becomes a 2,700 pound projectile. This will injure the pet, passengers, driver or the pet may escape the vehicle and cause a second accident or become agitated and bite the first responder that is on scene doing their job,” stated Selter.
The registered vehicles are evaluated on a variety of pet-related aspects, including how easily the vehicle accommodates animals and kennels of various sizes, ease of access to pet from within the vehicle, ease of pet entry and exit, ventilation for animals in the rear, as well as whether the vehicle has pet-friendly surfaces, adaptability for third party pet travel or safety gear. Ford received four out of the top ten honors for 2010 Pet Safe Vehicles of Choice List, including the Ford Transit Connect, Edge and Flex and the Lincoln MKT.
“With more than 340,000 vehicles sold since it was originally launched in late 2006, the Ford Edge has been meeting the needs of customers who demand style, technology, performance and capability in a compelling package,” said Burin. “We look ahead with excitement this summer to the arrival of the new 2011 Edge, which adds even more revolutionary technology and class-leading performance. And with a suite of safety features, flexible seating and nearly 70 cubic feet of cargo space, the Ford Edge is perfect for those traveling with pets.”
Doggie Seat Belt, the newest As Seen On TV product to offer real solutions to problems without breaking the bank. “When the weather is nice, you see dog heads hanging out the window all of the time,” said Anand “Andy” Khubani, President and CEO of Ideavillage Products Corp and distributor of the Doggie Seat Belt. “Since we all love our pets and enjoy taking them with us, Doggie Seat Belt was designed to be as easy and convenient as possible to buckle up our pets when they are in the car. This should help to decrease the chance of injury to a dog or passenger in the event of an accident.” The 2010 Pet Safe Vehicle of Choice TOP DOG Ford Edge award was accepted by Brett Burin Ford Edge Marketing Manager.
2010 Pet Safe Retailer, Hotel and Airline:
• BassPro Shops Unable to attend
• Sheraton Hotels on hand to accept the award Thomas Mituzas Director HR
• Southwest Airlines on hand to accept the award Amanda Udell Manager Marketing
Statistics:
• 35 MPH accident with a 60-pound pet unrestrained becomes a 2,700-pound projectile
• 98% of dogs do not travel properly restrained in a moving vehicle
• Driver distraction causes more accidents then any other issue
• 82% of pets travel on vacation with their owners
• Pet friendly lodging has increased 300% since 2005
• Over 70 million homes in America have a pet
###
Media Contact: Bark Buckle UP
Ashley 949-2959515
PR@BarkBuckleUP.com
High res photos http://www.BarkBuckleUP.com/media
About Christina Selter "Pet Safety Lady":” has been featured on more than 250 TV stations nationwide including National networks, as well as radio, print, and online venues. Recently featured in her first national TV commercial, produced several PSA’s and the Pet Safety seminar that will be attended by the public FREE at more then 4000 locations in the US and Canada summer 2010. Selter’s first children’s book, “Be Smart Ride Safe®”, will be published in 2010.
Pet Safety Lady founder of Bark Buckle UP and the Bark Buckle UP Charity, works closely with first responders, auto manufacturers, airline, marine and other pet experts to help educate, inform, and protect America’s pets. Pet Safety Lady travels the country teaching pet safety to the public and works with Police, Fire, National Guard, Coast Guard EMT, K9 units, FEMA dogs, animal services, pet rescues, and volunteers her time to help save pets lives. Her Bark10-4 program has delivered more then 8,000 pet oxygen masks to Fire Chiefs in the U.S. and Canada. She has been featured with many Fire and Police Chiefs in the media educating the public on pet safety and has frequently been the host of first responder press conferences nationwide.
About Ford Motor Company: Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 198,000 employees and about 90 plants worldwide, the company’s automotive brands include Ford, Lincoln, Mercury and Volvo. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford’s products, please visit www.ford.com.
About Ideavillage Products Corporation: Headquartered in Wayne, New Jersey, Ideavillage Products Corporation has been bringing innovative products to market under the As Seen On TV banner since 1999. Dedicated to providing affordable quality products offering solutions to life’s everyday problems, the As Seen On TV category has become on of today’s most popular line of consumer goods and include Doggie Seat Belt, Smooth Away, HD Vision WrapArounds, MicroTouch Magic, and more. All products are available directly while select products are available at food, drug, and mass retail outlets nationwide. Ideavillage actively supports charitable organizations such as the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, Cherish the Children Foundation, and more. For more information on the Doggie Seat Belt visit http://www.doggieseatbelt.com
Media Contact:
BarkBuckleUP
949 361 2275 (BARK)
Email Bark@BarkBuckleUP.com
- Be Smart Ride Safe®
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