Pet food is making our kids sick

Dry dog and cat foods have been linked to human illness reports the online medical journal Pediatrics, after conducting a study for a 3-year period. The investigation found human Salmonella, especially in young children.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration investigated a multi-state outbreak of Salmonella infections in humans in 2007. They identified Salmonella bacteria in several brands of dry dog and cat food produced at a Mars Petcare US plant in Everson, Pa., including Pedigree and Special Kitty as the source.

Pet treats have also been recalled many times for Salmonella, and can make our kids sick.

The Food and Drug Administration reports at least six unrelated pet food recalls have been issued this year, because of possible salmonella contamination.  

Most Salmonella infections are acquired by handling or consuming contaminated food products, particularly foods of animal origin. Infections also are acquired by direct and indirect contact with farm animals, reptiles, and occasionally our beloved pets.

Proper handling and storage of pet foods in our home will help to prevent us from getting sick.
Keep food and treat bags closed and away from children.
Wash hands after handling dry food, treats, pets, and pet bowls.
Do not let your young children near the pet's feeding area.
Keep hands out of mouths after touching dry pet food, pet bowls, or pets.
Keep the pet feeding area clean.
Move the pet feeding area out of the kitchen.
Do not bathe your baby in the kitchen sink.
Don't wash pet or pet bowls where your kids wash.
After contact with animal feces (stool), wash your hands well with soap and running water.
Do not let your kids play where your pet goes to the bathroom.
Scoop the litter box daily and dispose of the waste in a tightly sealed bag.

Most people infected with Salmonella develop diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps 12–72 hours after infection. Infection is usually diagnosed by culture of a stool sample. The illness usually lasts 4 to 7 days. Although most people recover without treatment, severe infections can occur. Infants, elderly people, and those with weakened immune systems are more likely than others to develop severe illness. When severe infection occurs, Salmonella may spread from the intestines to the bloodstream and then to other body sites and can cause death unless the person is treated promptly with antibiotics.