Zuke’s withdraws dog treats from stores. FDA not informed

Zuke’s Mini Naturals dog treats have been withdrawn by the company.

The withdrawal follows a series of complaints posted on the websites of on-line retailers Amazon.com and Chewy.com over the last five months describing mold growth in unopened bags of the pet treats.

Some of the complaints described episodes of diarrhea and vomiting in dogs who were fed the treats.

According to the pet food retail chain, Pet Supplies Plus, the following products have been withdrawn:

• Zukes Mini Naturals Chicken Recipe, 6 oz & 16 oz:- SKU Number 013423330517 & 013423330210
• Zukes Mini Naturals Chicken Recipe, Sample Size (0.5 oz)
• Zukes Mini Naturals Peanut Butter & Oats Recipe, 6 oz & 16 oz:- SKU Number 013423330524 & 013423330227
• Zukes Mini Naturals Duck Recipe, 6 oz & 16 oz:- SKU Number 613423330533 & 613423330236
• Zukes Mini Naturals Salmon Recipe, 6 oz & 16 oz:- SKU Number 013423330548 & 013423330241 
• Zukes Mini Naturals Pork Recipe, 6 oz & 16 oz:- SKU Number 613423330557 & 613423330250
• Zukes Mini Naturals Rabbit Recipe, 6 oz & 16 oz:- SKU Number 613423330564 & 613423330267
• Zukes Mini Naturals Beef Recipe, 6 oz & 16 oz: SKU Number 613423330588 & 613423330601

The pet treats are sold nationwide through physical and online retailers.

Zuke’s, which is a subsidiary of Nestlé Purina PetCare, posted this notice on the “Contact Us” page of its website:

As you might have heard from your pet store, we are voluntarily removing Zuke’s Mini Naturals (all recipes) from sale due to a quality issue. While not a food safety issue, we took this proactive step with our retail customers and distributors to ensure our pet parents continue to have the best experience with our Zuke’s Mini Naturals products. If you aren’t completely satisfied with your recent Zuke’s Mini Naturals purchase, we are always happy to issue you a refund. To reach a member of our Pet Parent Relations team, please submit the form below or give us a call at 1-866-985-3364.

Zuke’s did not advise the FDA about this product withdrawal, nor was it obliged to do so, according to an agency spokesperson.

The FDA has received “a couple of complaints from pet owners involving moldy products and gastrointestinal signs such as vomiting and diarrhea, and is in the process of investigating those complaints.” The agency also has reached out to the manufacturer to learn more about the situation, including whether Zuke’s has received any complaints.

What consumers should do

• Do not feed the withdrawn treats to your pet. Either discard them or return them to the retailer for a refund.
• If your pet becomes ill after eating one of the withdrawn treats, consult your veterinarian.
• Report any pet illness relating to consumption of a commercial pet food or pet treat to the FDA either through the agency’s online portal or by telephone.