A letter I received from Zupreem discussing the circumstances of the pellet recall. I felt it was important to share. If you have fed your birds this food and there have been problems, obviously contact your veterinarian. There is also a contact number at the bottom of the letter if you would like to speak to Zupreem if you have any issues/concerns.
Dr. Sakas
Dear Colleague:
For
over 40 years ZuPreem® has been committed to producing the highest
quality foods to meet the nutritional requirements of companion exotic
pets and zoo animals. Our partnership with the veterinary community is
central to the education of companion pet owners of the need for proper
nutrition for their pets.
Therefore, I want you to be aware that recently ZuPreem initiated a voluntary recall of two lots of ZuPreem FruitBlend™ With
Natural Fruit Flavors bird food because they may contain elevated
levels of calcium. We are taking this action because elevated levels of
calcium may cause illness in birds, and in some cases could be fatal.
ZuPreem has
advised customers whose birds exhibit the clinical signs of decreased
activity level, decreased appetite, increased water consumption and
watery droppings to immediately contact their avian veterinarian. Your
awareness of the recall could help you more rapidly make a diagnosis in a
patient presenting with these clinical signs that may have consumed one
of the specific lot codes of FruitBlend bird food.
The recall is limited to ZuPreem
Medium/Large and Large FruitBlend™ With Natural Fruit Flavors
maintenance formula bird foods with the 11/30/13 or 11/13 expiration
date codes, and lot numbers of 598405052 or 598405072. No other ZuPreem
products or sizes or lots of FruitBlend are affected. We have been
working diligently with our distributors and retail partners to ensure
that the affected lot codes
are removed from further distribution, and we believe that in most cases
we have been successful in doing so.
In
addition we are asking veterinarians to remove these affected
expiration dates and lot codes from their clinic. Please advise bird
owners to discard the product and return the packaging to the location
where it was purchased for replacement or refund. Also, please share any
information relevant to the recall with your veterinary colleagues and
your clients.
This event
was caused by an unexpected quality control problem with an ingredient
supplier. Additional quality measures have already been put in place
to prevent this from occurring in the future.
We regret
this situation and we are doing everything we can to remedy it. We are
reaching out to you as a veterinary professional to accomplish this
goal. We also apologize for the concern it presents you or your clients.
Nothing is more important than the safety of our products and the
health of our customers’ birds. We are taking this matter very seriously
and working with our industry partners to resolve the issue
as quickly as possible.
If you wish to contact me, please email at LynH@zupreem.com
if you have any questions about this recall. If necessary we can set a
time to discuss this further. If you believe that a client’s bird has
been negatively impacted by eating the specific recalled date code of
ZuPreem FruitBlend, it is very important that they contact ZuPreem
Customer Care at 1-800-345-4767.
Tuesday, October 9, 2012
Monday, October 8, 2012
Man Dies from Bat Bite - A Cautionary Tale
Rabid animals are found throughout the country, mostly wildlife, and the main carrier of the rabies virus varies geographically. For example, rabies cases in animals nationwide (2011) were 1,981 raccoons (32.8 % of the total), 1,627 skunks (27%), 1,380 bats (22.9%), 427 foxes (7.1%), 303 cats (5.0%), 65 cattle (1.1%), and 70 dogs (1.2%). In Illinois, bats were number one and have been for years. But no matter what part of the country you are in, consider all wildlife to potentially have rabies, especially if acting strangely (mad dogs and friendly foxes, is the old saying). Be careful handling wildlife and do not put yourself at risk. If you are bitten, seek medical assistance, do not take any chances. Here is a cautionary tale about a man who was bit by a bat, ignored it, and paid the ultimate price for his lack of action.
In its last fatal rabies case, a man who had been bitten by a rabid dog in Mexico traveled to Contra Costa County, where he became sick and died, in 1993.
Man dies of rabies from bat bite in Contra Costa County
A 34-year-old man died in Switzerland over the summer from
rabies contracted from a bat in Contra Costa County (California)– the first death
rabies death traced to the county in nearly 20 years, officials
announced Friday.
The man, whose name has not been released, became ill before leaving the United States to work overseas. He died in a hospital in July, according to Contra Costa Health Services.
Tests later confirmed rabies as the cause of death. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention was notified of the death in late August and launched an investigation. It concluded the man had probably been infected in March after touching a bat in southern Contra Costa County, said Erika Jenssen, head of Contra Costa Public Health’s communicable disease program.
“Tragically, this man died from rabies,” Jenssen said in the statement. “It’s critical that people who have been bitten by bats or wild animals seek medical attention immediately.”
Three bats tested positive for rabies in the county this
year. Last year in California, 211 of 223 animals that tested positive for
rabies were bats, said Curtis Fritz, state public health veterinarian with the
California Department of Public Health, in a statement.The man, whose name has not been released, became ill before leaving the United States to work overseas. He died in a hospital in July, according to Contra Costa Health Services.
Tests later confirmed rabies as the cause of death. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention was notified of the death in late August and launched an investigation. It concluded the man had probably been infected in March after touching a bat in southern Contra Costa County, said Erika Jenssen, head of Contra Costa Public Health’s communicable disease program.
“Tragically, this man died from rabies,” Jenssen said in the statement. “It’s critical that people who have been bitten by bats or wild animals seek medical attention immediately.”
In its last fatal rabies case, a man who had been bitten by a rabid dog in Mexico traveled to Contra Costa County, where he became sick and died, in 1993.
That Cranky Old Cat May Have Alzheimer's
From the AVMA Pet Health SmartBrief
That Cranky Old Cat May Have Alzheimer’s
Tsushima Wildlife Conservation Center
Japanese scientists have discovered in the brain of wild cats protein deposits found in human Alzheimer’s patients, according to a study published in the science journal Plos One, providing new clues into the feline aging process.
In the study, researchers examined the carcasses of 14 Tsushima Leopard cats, endangered species living on the western Japanese island of Tsushima. Brain tissue from five of them contained Neurofibrillary tangles or NFT, a protein commonly found in human Alzheimer’s patients but rarely found in animals, according to researchers.
The study also detected traces of the peptide AB42, also known to cause mental deterioration.
“If we closely compare changes in the brain among many different animals, we may be able to contribute to a study into the mechanism of the disease,” James Chambers, an assistant professor of veterinary pathology at the University of Tokyo, told Kyodo News.
Japanese researchers say there’s no way to determine whether the Tsushima cats displayed any dementia-like symptoms because the animals were not monitored while alive. They hope to conduct a similar study on house cats, which have been known to become cranky, forget their food, walk sideways and display other geriatric behaviors.
Scientists have long suspected animals suffer from a similar form of dementia as humans.
A study by the University of California Davis revealed nearly a third of dogs aged 11 to 12 years old and 68 percent of those aged 15 to 16 develop some sign of cognitive impairment. In cats, 28 percent between 11 and 14 years similarly showed signs of dementia.
Much like humans, veterinarians say a good diet, stimulation and companionship is key to reversing mental decline.
Friday, October 5, 2012
Recall of Some ZuPreem Bird Pelleted Diets
New recall....ZuPreem Bird Pelleted Diet
Contact: ZuPreem 1-800-345-4767
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – October 2, 2012 – ZuPreem®, under parent company Premium Nutritional Products, Inc. is voluntarily recalling the 11/30/13 and the 11/13 expiration date codes of ZuPreem Medium/Large and Large FruitBlend™ With Natural Fruit Flavors maintenance formula bird foods. This voluntary recall is being initiated because two lots may contain calcium levels higher than the recommended level.
The voluntary recall is limited only to 11/30/13 and 11/13 expiration dates.
Consumers are advised to review the backside of packaging for the "Use By" or "Best By" (expiration date) to determine if the product has been affected by this voluntary recall. All ZuPreem channels, including distributors and retailers, have been notified of the voluntary recall. Each partner has been asked to immediately remove these products from store shelves.
The two voluntarily recalled lots are 598405052 and 598405072. The lot and expiration dates by sku, are listed below:
This voluntary recall has been activated due to elevated calcium levels. The calcium was inadvertently introduced into these lot codes during the manufacturing process. Excessive calcium intake can make birds sick and, in some cases, may be fatal.
Symptoms include decreased activity level, decreased appetite, increased water consumption and loose or watery droppings. If owners notice any of these symptoms, they should immediately contact their veterinarian.
Bird owners should monitor the health of their birds and notify their veterinarian if they notice any unusual symptoms. They should also discard any unused product and return the packaging to the place of purchase for a replacement or full refund.
To register your product with the voluntary recall, please fill out the form below the FAQs section.
Additionally, consumers may contact the ZuPreem Customer Service line at 1-800-345-4767 where company representatives are responding to inquiries regarding any issues relevant to this voluntary recall.
Update on Voluntary Product Recall of two lots of FruitBlend™ With Natural Fruit Flavors
Revised: October 2, 2012Contact: ZuPreem 1-800-345-4767
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – October 2, 2012 – ZuPreem®, under parent company Premium Nutritional Products, Inc. is voluntarily recalling the 11/30/13 and the 11/13 expiration date codes of ZuPreem Medium/Large and Large FruitBlend™ With Natural Fruit Flavors maintenance formula bird foods. This voluntary recall is being initiated because two lots may contain calcium levels higher than the recommended level.
The voluntary recall is limited only to 11/30/13 and 11/13 expiration dates.
Consumers are advised to review the backside of packaging for the "Use By" or "Best By" (expiration date) to determine if the product has been affected by this voluntary recall. All ZuPreem channels, including distributors and retailers, have been notified of the voluntary recall. Each partner has been asked to immediately remove these products from store shelves.
The two voluntarily recalled lots are 598405052 and 598405072. The lot and expiration dates by sku, are listed below:
| SKU | Net Weight | Description | UPC | Use By | Lot Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 83020 | 2 lbs. | ZuPreem FruitBlend with Natural Fruit Flavors Premium Daily Bird Food for medium/large birds | 762177830209 | Use By 11/30/13 | 598405052 |
| 83030 | 3.5 lbs. | ZuPreem FruitBlend with Natural Fruit Flavors Premium Daily Bird Food for medium/large birds | 762177830308 | Use By 11/30/13 | 598405052 |
| 83120 | 12 lbs. | ZuPreem FruitBlend with Natural Fruit Flavors Premium Daily Bird Food for medium/large birds | 762177831206 | Use By 11/30/13 | 598405052 |
| 83170 | 17.5 lbs. | ZuPreem FruitBlend with Natural Fruit Flavors Premium Daily Bird Food for medium/large birds | 762177831701 | Best By 11/13 | 598405052 |
| 83350 | 35 lbs. | ZuPreem FruitBlend with Natural Fruit Flavors Premium Daily Bird Food for medium/large birds | 762177833507 | Best By 11/13 | 598405052 |
| 84020 | 2 lbs. | ZuPreem FruitBlend with Natural Fruit Flavors Premium Daily Bird Food for large birds | 762177840208 | Use By 11/30/13 | 598405072 |
| 84030 | 3.5 lbs. | ZuPreem FruitBlend with Natural Fruit Flavors Premium Daily Bird Food for large birds | 762177840307 | Use By 11/30/13 | 598405072 |
| 84120 | 12 lbs. | ZuPreem FruitBlend with Natural Fruit Flavors Premium Daily Bird Food for large birds | 762177841205 | Use By 11/30/13 | 598405072 |
| 84170 | 17.5 lbs. | ZuPreem FruitBlend with Natural Fruit Flavors Premium Daily Bird Food for large birds | 762117841700 | Best By 11/13 | 598405072 |
| 84350 | 35 lbs. | ZuPreem FruitBlend with Natural Fruit Flavors Premium Daily Bird Food for large birds | 762177843506 | Best By 11/13 | 598405072 |
Products and product lots that do not appear on the list are not subject to this voluntary recall.
Reference images below to help identify lot numbers and expiration dates.This voluntary recall has been activated due to elevated calcium levels. The calcium was inadvertently introduced into these lot codes during the manufacturing process. Excessive calcium intake can make birds sick and, in some cases, may be fatal.
Symptoms include decreased activity level, decreased appetite, increased water consumption and loose or watery droppings. If owners notice any of these symptoms, they should immediately contact their veterinarian.
Bird owners should monitor the health of their birds and notify their veterinarian if they notice any unusual symptoms. They should also discard any unused product and return the packaging to the place of purchase for a replacement or full refund.
To register your product with the voluntary recall, please fill out the form below the FAQs section.
Additionally, consumers may contact the ZuPreem Customer Service line at 1-800-345-4767 where company representatives are responding to inquiries regarding any issues relevant to this voluntary recall.
FAQs
What is being announced?
Premium Nutritional Products has issued a voluntary recall of its ZuPreem® Medium/Large and ZuPreem® Large FruitBlend™ With Natural Fruit Flavors maintenance formula bird foods. The affected lots carry the expiration date codes of "Use by 11/30/13" and "Best by 11/13."Why are these products being recalled?
This voluntary recall is being initiated because one lot of ZuPreem® Medium/Large (598405052) and one lot of ZuPreem® Large (598405072) FruitBlend™ With Natural Fruit Flavors maintenance formula bird foods may contain elevated calcium levels.What product expiration date codes are affected?
The only lots affected by this recall are the ZuPreem® Medium/Large and the ZuPreem® Large FruitBlend™ With Natural Fruit Flavors maintenance formula bird foods with "Use By 11/30/13" and "Best by 11/13" expiration date codes.Are other ZuPreem® products affected?
No other ZuPreem® products or lots of FruitBlend™ With Natural Fruit Flavors maintenance formula bird food are affected or part of this recall.How will bird owners or breeders know if they have the recalled product?
The "Use by" and "Best by" expiration date and lot numbers can be found on the back of the package.What should people do if they have the product?
Consumers who have purchased these products with the lot codes and expiration dates should discontinue using this product, discard the food and return the packaging to the place of purchase for replacement or a full refund.What if owners fed the product?
They should monitor the health of their birds and notify their veterinarian if they notice any unusual symptoms. They should also discard any unused product and return the packaging to the place of purchase for a replacement or full refund.What symptoms should they look for?
Symptoms include decreased activity level, decreased appetite, increased water consumption and loose or watery droppings.What should owners do if they see symptoms?
If owners notice any of these symptoms, they should immediately contact their veterinarian.What is the risk to birds of excessive calcium intake?
Excessive calcium intake can make birds sick and, in some cases, may be fatal.Where were the affected products distributed?
The products in question were sold through pet stores, veterinary clinics, mail order and online in North America and other regions of the world.Wednesday, October 3, 2012
Review of the Peter Gabriel Concert at United Center
Here is my review of Peter Gabriel's concert at the United Center in Chicago on Thursday, September 27th.
http://rockchicago.net/?p=1512
http://rockchicago.net/?p=1512
Tuesday, October 2, 2012
Rabies Cases in the USA During 2011
This information is taken from the summary of an article "Rabies surveillance in the United States during 2011" by Blanton, Dyer, McBrayer, and Rupprecht, published JAVMA (Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association) September 15th, 2012.
"Summary - During 2011, 49 states and Puerto Rico reported 6,031 rabid animals and six human rabies cases to the CDC (Center for Disease Control), representing a 1.9% decrease from the 6,153 rabid animals and two human cases reported in 2010. Approximately 92% of reported rabid animals were wildlife. Relative contributions by the major animal groups were as follows: 1,981 raccoons (32.8%), 1,627 skunks (27.0%), 1,380 bats (22.9%), 427 foxes (7.1%), 303 cats (5.0%), 65 cattle (1.1%), and 70 dogs (1.2%), Compared with 2010, there was a substantial increase in the number of rabid skunks reported. Six cases of rabies involving humans were reported from California, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, and South Carolina. Three cases reported from Massachusetts, New Jersey, and New York were determined to be a result of canine rabies virus variants acquired outside the United States."
In Illinois the bat is the number one animal for rabies, however, there was a case in cattle this year. As you can see there is a wide range of animals that are affected but it varies by geographic location. It is also interesting to note that there are more cases of rabies in cats than dogs. So definitely be cautious around feral cats and if bitten, seek medical care. This data also emphasizes the importance of keeping your pets up to date with their rabies vaccination, so they can be protected in the case of a chance encounter with a rabid animal. Do not think that because one animal in your area is rabid that other types of animals are safe. Please take all precautions when encountering wildlife, especially wildlife that is acting strangely.
Peter S. Sakas DVM
"Summary - During 2011, 49 states and Puerto Rico reported 6,031 rabid animals and six human rabies cases to the CDC (Center for Disease Control), representing a 1.9% decrease from the 6,153 rabid animals and two human cases reported in 2010. Approximately 92% of reported rabid animals were wildlife. Relative contributions by the major animal groups were as follows: 1,981 raccoons (32.8%), 1,627 skunks (27.0%), 1,380 bats (22.9%), 427 foxes (7.1%), 303 cats (5.0%), 65 cattle (1.1%), and 70 dogs (1.2%), Compared with 2010, there was a substantial increase in the number of rabid skunks reported. Six cases of rabies involving humans were reported from California, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, and South Carolina. Three cases reported from Massachusetts, New Jersey, and New York were determined to be a result of canine rabies virus variants acquired outside the United States."
In Illinois the bat is the number one animal for rabies, however, there was a case in cattle this year. As you can see there is a wide range of animals that are affected but it varies by geographic location. It is also interesting to note that there are more cases of rabies in cats than dogs. So definitely be cautious around feral cats and if bitten, seek medical care. This data also emphasizes the importance of keeping your pets up to date with their rabies vaccination, so they can be protected in the case of a chance encounter with a rabid animal. Do not think that because one animal in your area is rabid that other types of animals are safe. Please take all precautions when encountering wildlife, especially wildlife that is acting strangely.
Peter S. Sakas DVM
Monday, October 1, 2012
Canine Peanut Butter Treat Recalled
Canine Peanut Butter Treat Recalled
A nationwide limited recall of peanut butter made by Sunland Inc. has snared a pet company, Dog for Dog, which issued a voluntary recall of all its jarred Dogsbutter.Portales, N.M.-based Sunland initially recalled 75 almond butter and peanut butter products, including some made for grocers such as Trader Joe’s, Fresh & Easy and Sprouts, because of possible salmonella contamination. The manufacturer expanded the recall Monday to include 25 additional products containing cashew butter, tahini or roasted blanched peanuts.
The voluntary recall began after 29 people reportedly contracted salmonella-type illnesses in 18 states, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration stated.
 Dog for Dog’s all-natural Dogsbutter is made from peanuts, flaxseed and palm fruit oil. |
“While no Dogsbutter products have tested positive for salmonella, our No. 1 focus is ensuring the health, safety and well-being of dogs,” Keever said.
“We’d much rather be overly cautious,” he added. “We’re not knowledgeable enough in the peanut market, so we just pulled it.”
All the recalled products may be returned to the place of purchase for a full refund, Sunland and Keever noted.
Dog for Dog also sells Dogsbar nutrition bars, which are not included in the recall.
The Sunland recall involves products manufactured from May 1 through Monday.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)