- Dog biscuits sold in seven states were recalled after federal testing found possible Salmonella contamination. No illnesses have been reported, but regulators warn the bacteria can quietly sicken pets and people – sometimes without obvious signs or symptoms.
- The recall applies to specific Country Vet and Heartland Harvest meaty-flavor biscuits with a Sept. 6. 2006 expiration date and lot code 40906513. If you bought 4-pound bags in Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska or Texas, press pause until you’ve checked the label.
- Salmonella isn’t just a “pet problem.” According to the recall notice published by the FDA, dogs can carry and shed the bacteria without looking sick – potentially exposing children, older adults and people with weaker immunity.
- A peer-reviewed study in the journal Animals reported Salmonella as the most frequent hazard in dog chews and treats – one reason recalls exist before illnesses occur.
- The CDC recommends washing hands after handling pet food, cleaning bowls and scoops, storing food correctly and checking recalls – simple routines that help keep the household safer.
Most of us don’t think twice when we toss our dogs a biscuit. It’s a small ritual of affection – a crunchy “I love you” dropped into a bowl. But that ordinary moment took on a new meaning when Iowa-based Consumers Supply Distributing LLC recalled two popular dog biscuit brands in seven states after routine federal testing detected possible Salmonella contamination.
The recall applies to Country Vet Biscuits – Original Meaty Flavor and Heartland Dog Biscuits – Meaty Flavor with Chicken, both sold in four-pound bags with an expiration date of Sept. 6, 2026, and a lot code 40906513. According to the company announcement published by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the products were distributed in Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska and Texas.
The company emphasized that no illnesses have been reported so far, but it urged customers to stop feeding the treats while the investigation continues.
When we hear Salmonella, most of us think of undercooked chicken. But the same bacteria can ride along on dog treats and kibble. In the FDA-published notice, the company warned that dogs exposed to Salmonella may develop diarrhea (sometimes bloody), fever, vomiting or lethargy – but some show no symptoms at all.
According to the recall notice, infected but otherwise healthy pets can still carry and shed the bacteria, potentially exposing other animals and people. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reinforces that warning: children, older adults, pregnant women and anyone with weaker immunity may be especially vulnerable – sometimes from simply handling pet food or touching contaminated surfaces.
Human symptoms can include abdominal cramps, diarrhea, fever, nausea and vomiting. The company also notes that in rare cases, complications such as joint pain or arterial infections may occur.
So when a recall alert pops up, it isn’t just about protecting pets – it’s about protecting everyone who shares their space.
Science has been waving this flag for years
A 2021 peer-reviewed study in the journal Animals examined microbiological hazards in dog chews and feeds. The authors reported that Salmonella remains the most frequent bacterial risk, but it isn’t the only concern. They also identified Listeria monocytogenes, Clostridium perfringens and mycotoxins – toxic substances produced by certain molds.
The study highlighted that dried chews and treats – especially those made from animal parts – have been repeatedly found to carry Salmonella. Because people and pets share close living spaces, the researchers concluded that ensuring pet food safety should be a public health priority.
Another key observation: chews sold loose – such as pig ears or tendons offered without packaging or expiration dates – may involve higher risk because storage and handling conditions can vary. And while most products are safe, the consequences when they’re not are serious enough that regulators routinely test, monitor and recall.
Some Salmonella strains identified in pet treats have also shown resistance to multiple antibiotics, according to the same paper – a stark reminder that bacteria do not always stay neatly contained once they’re in the environment.
Sharing human food with your dogs
Understandably, recalls make pet parents wonder whether human food might be safer or at least a nice healthy treat. According from guidance from the American Kennel Club (AKC) and Healthline, the real answer is: Some people foods are fine in moderation – and some can be dangerous:
- Fruits and veggies – mostly yes, with caveats. Many plain fruits and vegetables are safe and even health. Dogs can enjoy apples (without seeds), bananas, blackberries, blueberries, carrots, cucumbers, green beans, peas, pumpkin watermelon (no seeds or rind), carrots, cucumbers, peas and pumpkin. Small pieces are best. But some plant foods are off limits. Grapes and raisins can trigger sudden kidney failure. Chives, garlic, leeks and onions can damage red blood cells, even when cooked or powdered. Cherries and avocado puts are choking and toxin risks.
- Proteins – keep them plain and cooked. Dogs can safely eat fully cooked chicken, eggs, lean beef, salmon and turkey – without bones, fat, skin or seasoning. Experts caution against raw eggs or meat because of bacteria risk. And cooked bones should never be given as they can splinter internally.
- Dairy – some dogs tolerate it. Plain cottage cheese, small pieces of cheese or yogurt are fine for many dogs – but others are lactose-sensitive. If you try dairy, start small and watch for stomach upset.
- Grains and carbs – simple is best. Plain oatmeal, pasta or rice can be safe in moderation. But raw dough is dangerous because it can expand and produce alcohol inside the stomach.
- Nuts and sweets – mostly avoided. A couple of plain cashews or peanuts are usually fine. But almonds, macadamia nuts or walnuts aren’t recommended – they’re choking hazards and may contain toxins. And two sweeteners are especially dangerous: chocolate (toxic to the heart and nervous system) and xylitol (extremely dangerous and linked to liver failure).
Here’s the part worth bookmarking – golden rules the AKC and Healthline emphasize:
- Plain and simple wins. No butter, oils, salt, sauces or spices.
- Tiny portions only – treats should stay under 10 percent of daily calories.
- Cut everything into bite-size pieces.
- Remove cores, pits, seeds, skin, skewers, toothpicks and packaging.
- Introduce new foods slowly and watch for diarrhea, itching, vomiting or lethargy.
- Store-bought peanut butter must by xylitol-free.
- When in doubt, ask your vet before making people food a habit.
Here’s a calm, practical action plan for pet parents:
- Check your pantry. If you live in one of the seven affected states and have the recalled Country Vet or Heartland Harvest biscuits, look for lot code 40906513 and the Sept. 6, 2026 expiration date.
- Stop feeding the recalled treats and follow the company’s return or disposal guidance.
- Watch your dog for symptoms such as diarrhea, fever, vomiting or lethargy. Call your vet with concerns.
- Seek medical advice if anyone in your household develops stomach illness after exposure.
- Sign up for recall alerts from the FDA or your veterinary association so you’re notified early.
BrightU.AI‘s Enoch notes that our dogs don’t just live in our homes – they live in our hearts. They greet us at the door, curl beside us and quietly take up residence at our feet while we work or rest. That closeness is what makes pet food safety a shared health issue, not a niche topic for regulators. By treating pet food with the same care we give our own groceries, we protect not just for our pets, but the whole circle of life gathered around them.
Can Salmonella cause dog food poisoning? Watch this video.
This video is from the Daily Videos channel on Brighteon.com.
Sources include:
TheEpochTimes.com
PMC.NCBI.NLM.NIH.gov
AKC.org
Healthline.com
CDC.gov
BrightU.ai
Brighteon.com
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