Navigating Pet Food Recalls
In recent developments, Mid America Pet Food, the manufacturer of popular brands like Victor, Eagle Mountain, Wayne Feeds, and Member’s Mark, has voluntarily recalled its products due to a potential Salmonella contamination. This has raised concerns among pet owners and sparked discussions on the importance of recalls, the implications for pet health, and what to feed our furry friends during such situations.
ALL VICTOR FORMULAS with best by dates before 10/31/24. RECALL ANNOUNCED.
- VICTOR
- WAYNE FEEDS
- EAGLE MOUNTAIN
- MEMBERS MARK
Mid America Pet Food Expands Voluntary Recall to Include Additional Dog and Cat Food Products Due to Possible Salmonella Health Risk
The Recalls: A Necessary Evil?
Recalls are a double-edged sword. On one hand, they are a vital mechanism for identifying and addressing potential health risks associated with pet food. They shed light on the transparency and accountability of pet food companies. However, they also highlight the imperfections in quality control and the potential dangers that can arise. Recalls tell us a lot about the company. It is in the way that a pet food manufacturer handles their recall that demonstrates their commitment to transparency, consumer safety, and accountability, which are crucial elements in mitigating potential harm and maintaining trust with pet owners.
For a thorough understanding on pet manufacturer recalls, please read Recalls: the good the bad and the ugly by Animal Nutritionist and Veterinary Technician Specialist in Nutrition, Jessica. BAnVetBioSci, RVN, AVN, VTS (Nutrition)
In the case of Mid America Pet Food, the recall was prompted by a collaboration between the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC), and state partners investigating several cases of Salmonella Kiambu infection potentially linked to their pet food. The affected products include various formulas under Victor, Eagle Mountain, Wayne Feeds, and Member’s Mark, with best by dates before 10/31/2024.
Choosing a Safe Alternative:
During a recall, pet owners may wonder what to feed their dogs to ensure their well-being.
This is a perfect opportunity to choose a pet food that align with WSAVA guidelines. This can offer pet owners peace of mind, knowing that their choices are backed by a globally recognized standard for pet nutrition. Pet owners may reconsider their trust in brands like Victor and prioritize those that adhere to the WSAVA guidelines for their pets’ overall health and well-being.
Unfortunately, any sudden diet change such as a recall like this is likely to cause gastrointestinal upset. If your dog has a sensitive gastrointestinal tract, consider transitioning to a sensitive GI tract formula from reputable brands like Eukanuba, Iams, Purina, Royal Canin, or Science Diet. However, it’s crucial to introduce the new food gradually to avoid digestive upset.
A suggested approach is to blend the new food over as long a period as possible. Given the sensitive nature of some dogs’ GI tracts, due to this case, you may not be able to take the recommended gradual dietary blend. It’s advisable to consult with your veterinarian about incorporating probiotics for additional support or dietary recommendation. Probiotics can aid in maintaining a healthy balance of gut bacteria, especially during dietary transitions.
The World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) is a globally recognized organization comprised of leading experts in veterinary medicine, including nutrition. The WSAVA aims to advance the field of small animal care by fostering collaboration among veterinarians, researchers, and professionals worldwide. One of its essential committees, the Global Nutrition Committee, focuses on establishing guidelines to ensure the highest standards in pet nutrition. These guidelines are designed to assist pet owners and veterinarians in making informed decisions when selecting pet foods, emphasizing factors such as nutritional completeness, ingredient quality, and rigorous testing protocols. The WSAVA’s commitment to global pet health and its authoritative role in shaping nutritional standards make it a trusted resource for those seeking optimal care for their companion animals.
Pet owners are encouraged to utilize this invaluable tool when selecting pet foods to make informed choices that align with the highest standards of nutrition and safety.
Victor’s Deviation from WSAVA Guidelines:
Regrettably, Victor has been found to deviate from these WSAVA guidelines, and has been noted for not adhering to WSAVA guidelines. These guidelines are strictly voluntarily, but a factor that may raise concerns among pet owners including having implicated in cases of DCM. Choosing pet foods that align with WSAVA recommendations is not just a matter of preference; it’s a commitment to the health of our pets. As pet owners navigate through the landscape of available options, it becomes imperative to prioritize brands that follow these guidelines to ensure the highest standards of nutritional quality and safety for our pets.
While Victor Super Premium Pet Food proudly displays its “highest ratings” on “Dog Food Advisor”, it’s crucial to recognize that this accolade may not necessarily indicate adherence to WSAVA’s science-backed guidelines. Dog Food Advisor’s rating system relies on simplistic criteria such as ingredient analysis, which doesn’t comprehensively evaluate factors crucial to a dog’s overall health. The site’s founder, Mike Sagman, lacks professional credentials in veterinary medicine or pet nutrition, raising concerns about the depth and accuracy of the assessments. Therefore, the highest rating from Dog Food Advisor should be approached with caution, and pet owners are encouraged to consider more comprehensive sources that prioritize the well-rounded nutritional needs of their pets, in line with globally recognized standards such as WSAVA guidelines.
What Brands Follow WSAVA Guidelines?
Pet owners should consider WSAVA guidelines when selecting pet foods because they represent a comprehensive and science-based approach to nutrition. Eukanuba, Iams, Purina, Royal Canin and Science Diet are the diets that follow these guidelines and are crafted by experts who prioritize the health and nutritional needs of pets, providing a reliable framework for evaluating the quality and safety of pet food products.
Pet food recalls serve as a stark reminder of the importance of scrutinizing the brands we trust to nourish our furry companions. During such times, it’s crucial to transition to safe alternatives gradually, consult with veterinarians, and prioritize WSAVA-compliant diets to safeguard our pets’ health. Stay informed, stay vigilant, and prioritize your pet’s well-being above all else.
Synergistically Yours
Danielle & Sheepdog Riggs
forever in our hearts
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