Dangers of Chinese Pet treats

This was some details that we received about KraMar pet treats sold in Australia, with the concerns originating due to raw ingredients from China, please read below.

DO NOT USE THESE TREATS!
Animal Doctors have not seen or sold these treats, but wants to raise awareness in the greater public arena.

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VOLUNTARY PRODUCT RECALL OF DOG TREATS

KRAMAR SUPA NATURALS CHICKEN BREAST STRIPS 150G – PRODUCT CODE 85148

KRAMAR SUPA NATURALS CHICKEN BREAST STRIPS 110G –PRODUCT CODE 85149

The KraMar Pet Company Pty Limited has announced a voluntary product recall of its KraMar Supa Naturals chicken breast strips made in China.

KraMar is taking this step as a precaution because of an alleged association between the product and instances of Fanconi-Like Syndrome in small dogs.

The number of cases of illness reported to KraMar is 15, since the product was launched 15 months ago.

KraMar has been in discussions with Dr. Linda Fleeman BVSc PhD MACVSc, Senior Lecturer in Small Animal Medicine from the Faculty of Veterinary Science at the University of Sydney to investigate the issue of some instances of illness in dogs. To date there has been no scientific evidence to link the product with the development of Fanconi-Like Syndrome.

The KraMar Pet Company had tested every shipment for E-Coli, Salmonella and Melamine. More recently at the request of some veterinary surgeons tests were done for other potential Toxins. The manufacturing facility in China has been approved by the Australian Quarantine Inspection Service (AQIS). All tests to date have been clear.

KraMar’s CEO Bryan Fouche has announced that the decision has been made to recall all Supa Naturals chicken breast strips from sale effective immediately.

Explaining the decision Mr Fouche said “KraMar regards the health and welfare of all dogs as paramount.”

“We have been in the market of supplying dog care products for over 50 years and our customers rely on us to maintain the care.”

Mr Fouche stressed that none of the company’s other products are impacted and KraMar is already exploring the potential of taking steps to move the production of Supa Naturals products to Australia.

“This precautionary measure has been taken despite the lack of scientific evidence because of our concerns for the welfare of dogs.”

The symptoms of Fanconi-like Syndrome are:
Decreased food consumption, although some may continue to consume the treats to the exclusion of other foods
Decreased activity or lethargy
Vomiting
Diarrhoea, sometimes with blood
Increased water consumption and/or increased urination

In severe cases, blood tests may indicate kidney failure and urine tests may indicate Fanconi-like Syndrome. (According to data from the US Food & Drug Administration website, 26 September 2007)

KraMar advises customers whose dogs show any of these symptoms to immediately consult their vet if signs are severe or persist for more than 24 hours.

All Supa Naturals Chicken Breast Strips will be removed from shelves effective immediately.
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Severe Tick Season 2008

Just as a word of warning,
It has been a severe paralysis tick season here in Port Macquarie NSW, and along the whole eastern seaboard.

A massive increase in the amount of cases being presented, and in the severity of each case.

There are numerous fatalities.

Additionally an increase in the average number of ticks on each animal being presented for paralysis.

Many cases are without any prevention, again demonstating the benefits and necessity of the preventative products.

See our website (www.animaldoctors.com.au) for the best options for tick prevention for your pet.

Keep checking your pet EVERY day, watch for any signs and contact us immediately if there are any symptoms.

BE TICK AWARE!

Keep safe,
Steve
Animal Doctors Team

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Steve - Part of the Animal Doctors Team.