In the past couple of months there have been several reported complaints to the FDA about dogs getting sick and dying in association to eating chicken jerky products for dogs (also sold as chicken tenders, strips or treats), imported from China.

In the past four years the FDA has issued three separate warnings about chicken jerky, saying that owners need to watch their pets closely for signs of illness after giving their pets these treats.

Such signs include:

• decreased appetite
• decreased activity
• vomiting
• diarrhea, sometimes with blood
• increased water consumption; and/or
• increased urination

Several samples from around the country have been collected and are being tested. Tests have been negative for toxic metals but the FDA continues to actively investigate the problem and its origin.

No cause for the sickness has been determined so there have been no recalls on the products, but the FDA is working hard to develop an answer.

As soon as the FDA identifies the cause the public will be notified and action will be taken