How do Veterinary Products get Recalled?
Generally, a recall is a product that is removed from the market or a correction made to the product because it is either defective or potentially harmful. A recall is usually a voluntary act urged on by the manufacturers.
The FDA frequently reviews many aspects to assure the safety of pets’ food. It requires that all animal foods, like human food, be safe to eat, produced under sanitary conditions, contain no harmful substances and be truthfully labeled. In some cases, recalls may be necessary in order to comply with the laws and regulations administered by the FDA.
There are three ways that a veterinary product may be recalled: by a firm’s own initiative, by FDA request, or by FDA order under their recall authority powers. A veterinary product recall may involve either a withdrawal (addresses a problem to remove products that present only minor or unknown risks) or removal (addresses a problem that results in the removal completely at the manufacturer’s discretion). In serious cases, however, veterinary product recalls may occur as a responsible way to protect your pets from products that present a risk of injury or serious defect.
How do I know if a veterinary product has been recalled?
To know if a veterinary product has been recalled, you may also check with the Humane Society for a list of recalled foods and treats here: http://www.humanesociety.org/animals/resources/facts/pet_food_safety.html?credit=web_id95302599#Recalled_pet_food_and_treats. Also, consumers can check this website for classified recalls in FDA’s weekly Enforcement Report: http://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls/enforcementreports/default.htm.
Thirdly, if consumers believe that a specific veterinary product has been tampered with, they can log a complaint to the Safety Reporting Portal (which includes issues with both animal and human food/drugs.) It is essential to ensure that veterinary products are safe for our furry pet friends. Some signs that there is a problem with the veterinary product include: foul odor, off-color, swollen can or pouch, leaking container or foreign objects found in the object.
What do I do with recalled veterinary products?
Therefore,if you have discovered that a veterinary product has been recalled, there are a few things you can do:
- Do not continue feeding your pet. You can return recalled products to the store where you purchased. Alternatively, you can also dispose of them in a secure manner
- If your pet has consumed a recalled product, notify your veterinarian, even if your pet isn’t showing any symptoms
- Finally, file a complaint with the FDA if your pet has been poisoned due to tainted food or treats. If this is the case, notify the FDA Consumer Complaint Coordinator in your state.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has jurisdiction on veterinary products. It also works in conjunction with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
