A nationwide health alert has been issued after several brands of frozen dog food were recalled due to contamination fears that could cause infections in both pets and their human owners. The recall comes after multiple reports of severe illness in dogs — and a few alarming cases in people who handled the food without realizing the risk.
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the recall involves select lots of raw or minimally processed frozen dog food found to contain harmful bacteria capable of causing serious gastrointestinal infections. The bacteria, identified as Salmonella and Listeria monocytogenes, can spread from pets to humans through contact with contaminated food, surfaces, or even animal feces.
Officials say the decision to recall came after routine safety testing revealed high bacterial counts in unopened packages. “These pathogens pose a unique threat because they can infect both pets and people,” said an FDA spokesperson. “Even healthy-looking dogs can shed the bacteria in their stool, putting families — especially children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals — at risk.”
So far, several states have reported incidents linked to the contaminated products. In one case, a dog developed bloody diarrhea within 24 hours of consuming the food, prompting its owner to seek veterinary care. Laboratory tests later confirmed the infection was caused by Salmonella, and both the dog and the owner were treated for exposure.
Health officials are urging pet owners to immediately stop feeding the affected products and to check their freezers for any recalled batches. The recalled items were sold nationwide through both retail stores and online platforms. Consumers are being advised to handle all pet food with caution — washing hands thoroughly after contact, cleaning food bowls regularly, and disinfecting any surfaces the food may have touched.
Veterinarians say the symptoms of infection in dogs may include vomiting, diarrhea (sometimes with blood), fever, lethargy, and loss of appetite. Humans exposed to the bacteria may experience nausea, cramps, and fever — in severe cases, the infection can spread to the bloodstream and become life-threatening.
“This is not the first time raw-style pet foods have been recalled for contamination,” noted Dr. Emily Harris, a veterinary epidemiologist. “While many pet owners believe raw diets are healthier, they come with significant bacterial risks if not handled or produced under strict safety standards.”
The FDA has recommended that anyone who suspects their pet or family member has been exposed should contact a veterinarian or healthcare provider immediately. Consumers are also urged to report any illness through the FDA’s consumer complaint system to help trace the outbreak’s source.
As cleanup and investigations continue, pet owners nationwide are being reminded of a simple but vital rule: treat all pet food — especially raw or frozen varieties — with the same care as handling raw meat. One small slip in hygiene can lead to a very big problem.
For now, the message is clear — check your freezer, toss the affected batches, and stay alert to any unusual symptoms in your pet or household.