Most people forget that we can get sick from handling pet food.
Pet food and treats can be contaminated with Salmonella. This can can cause serious illness in people.
How to be safe with pet food.
Being safe with pet food begins with when you purchase the food and continues through beyond feeding your pet.
- When purchasing pet food, purchase products in good condition. There should be no sign of damage to the packaging.
- Dry pet food should be stored in a sealed container away from areas that may attract pests.
- If a can opener is used on pet food, it should be cleaned before and after use especially, if the can opener will be used on food for humans.
- Hand washing is essential. Wash your hands for 20 seconds with hot water and soap before and after handling pet foods and treats.
- Keep pet bowls clean. Pet bowls should be washed after use. Pets can get sick from dirty bowls. Wash pet food bowls, dishes, and scooping utensils with soap and hot water after each use is recommended by many experts.
- Do not use the pet’s feeding bowl as a scooping utensil especially, if the bowl may not be clean
- Dispose of old or spoiled pet food products in a safe manner. Don’t let your pet get to these items and get sick as a result.
- Refrigerate promptly or discard any unused, leftover wet pet food. Refrigerators should be set at 40º F.
- Dry products should be stored in a cool, dry place—under 80º F.
- Keep pets away from food storage and preparation areas.
- Keep pets away from garbage and household trash.
- Keep an eye on pets if they come into contact with other pet’s bowls or food.
- Be aware of expiration dates and other important information on food labels.
Safe Handling Tips for Pet Foods and Treats(FDA)
Pet Food (FDA)
Details on how the FDA ensures that pet foods are properly labeled and contain safe ingredients.
How to Report a Pet Food Complaint (FDA)
Before you contact the FDA, review this checklist on the pet food product and any symptoms your pet may have.
Think Food Safety (FDA)
We know to wash our hands before eating dinner and after using the bathroom, but what about after handling pet food?
Do you know how the food gets salmonella??