Agriculture Commissioner Tommy Irvin is alerting Georgians that a type of dog treat is being recalled because of potential for Salmonella contamination.

BJ’s Wholesale Club, Inc. is recalling its 25-count packages of “Berkley & Jensen” Full-Cut Pig Ears dog treats with no lot number and only the expiration advisory “BEST IF USED BY 2009” (without referencing a specific month) because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella, an organism which can cause serious infections in dogs, and, if there is cross-contamination, young children, frail or elderly people and others with weakened immune systems.

Consumers should immediately stop feeding the treats to their pets.

Salmonella can potentially be transferred to people handling these dog treats, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the product or any surfaces exposed to these products.

Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis and arthritis.

Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with this product should contact their healthcare providers.

Dogs that become ill from Salmonella generally will have a fever and diarrhea that may contain blood or mucus. Affected animals may seem more tired than usual, and may have vomiting. Some dogs do not have diarrhea, but will have decreased appetite, fever and excess salivation.

If your dog has consumed the recalled product and is exhibiting these signs, please contact your veterinarian.

BJ’s members who purchased “Berkley & Jensen” Full-Cut Pig Ears dog treats between January 1, 2006, through March 8, 2007, should discontinue use of the product and may return the unused portion to any BJ’s Wholesale Club for a full refund. Consumers who have further questions may contact BJ’s toll free Member Care line at 1-800-BJS-CLUB.
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