Maker: Viva Raw Pets
Cause: Salmonella and/or Listeria Monocytogenes Contamination.
Announcement: Viva Raw Pets Recall Announcement dated January 27, 2024 (archived here)
What was recalled on January 27, 2024
For clarity, the lot code can be found on the bag/packaging.
- Viva Duck for Dogs (Ground) Lot #22853
- Viva Duck for Dogs (Chunked) Lot #22853
- Viva Duck for Cats Lot #22853
- Viva Pure Duck Lot #22853
Overview
On January 27, 2024, Viva Raw Pets voluntarily recalled their Viva Duck for Dogs (Ground), Viva Duck for Dogs (Chunked), Viva Duck for Cats and Viva Pure Duck lines from lot #22853. Salmonella and Listeria Monocytogenes were tested positive after the FDA obtained and tested samples following a customer complaint.
The products affected were shipped and distributed in 1 lb. bricks in clear vacuum packaging between the dates of 10/24/2023 and 12/06/2023.
Salmonella and Listeria Monocytogenes
Salmonella and Listeria monocytogenes are both bacteria that can cause serious infections in humans and animals, including pets. Here’s an overview of their implications and the recommended actions if an infection is suspected or confirmed:
Salmonella:
- Implications for Humans:
- Causes salmonellosis, which typically includes symptoms like diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps.
- Symptoms usually start 6 hours to 6 days after infection and last 4 to 7 days.
- While most people recover without treatment, severe cases may require hospitalization, especially in the very young, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
- Implications for Pets (especially dogs and cats):
- Can lead to similar symptoms as in humans, including vomiting, diarrhea, fever, lethargy, and more.
- Some pets can be carriers without showing symptoms, potentially spreading the bacteria to humans and other animals.
- Actions if Tested Positive:
- For Humans: Seek medical attention. Treatment may include rehydration and, in severe cases, antibiotics.
- For Pets: Consult a veterinarian. Treatment might involve fluid therapy, medications to control symptoms, and sometimes antibiotics.
Listeria monocytogenes:
- Implications for Humans:
- Causes listeriosis, which can be particularly dangerous for pregnant women, newborns, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.
- Symptoms range from mild flu-like symptoms to severe complications like meningitis and septicemia.
- In pregnant women, it can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, or life-threatening infection of the newborn.
- Implications for Pets:
- Less common in pets compared to humans, but they can still be affected and show symptoms such as nausea, diarrhea, fever, and neurological signs.
- As with Salmonella, some pets might carry the bacteria without showing symptoms.
- Actions if Tested Positive:
- For Humans: Immediate medical treatment is crucial. Antibiotics are typically used to treat listeriosis.
- For Pets: Veterinary care is essential. The treatment may include antibiotics and supportive care.
General Preventative Measures:
- Practice good hygiene, especially hand washing with soap and water before and after handling pets, their food, or cleaning up their waste.
- Store and prepare food properly to avoid cross-contamination.
- Keep pet feeding areas clean and do not feed pets raw or undercooked meats.
- Regular veterinary check-ups for pets to ensure they are not carriers of these bacteria.
Contact Information:
For more information regarding this notice, email Viva Raw Pets directly at: [email protected] or call/text at: (919) 371-8882 between 9:00 am – 5:00 pm EST Monday to Friday.
This recall is being made with the knowledge of the Food and Drug Administration.
Always prioritize the safety and health of your pets. It’s better to be cautious and ensure that the products we provide for them are free from potential hazards. Always monitor any changes in your pet’s health, and if in doubt, contact your veterinarian immediately.
We urge our readers to spread the word about this recall, ensuring the safety of pets and pet owners alike. Stay informed and stay safe!
View other recent pet food recalls here, and if you have not done so already, we urge you to sign up now for Petful’s FREE recall alerts by email. Our free alerts are saving pets’ lives.
There were more recalls in 2024. See the previous one:
(Or browse recalls by brand name)
