How to Check If Your Dog Food Has Been Recalled

Pet food recalls happen regularly, for reasons such as bacterial contamination, nutrient problems or foreign material. The key is checking quickly and matching the exact product.

Step-by-step: is my pet's food recalled?

1. Find the product details on your bag or can: brand, full product name, size, lot number (a mix of letters and numbers, usually printed near the best-by date), best-by date and UPC.
2. Check the FDA's recall list. The FDA's "Recalls & Withdrawals" page for animal and veterinary products shows the date, company, product type, the problem and whether the recall is ongoing.
3. Check the AVMA's recalls and safety alerts page, which also tracks pet food recalls.
4. Check the manufacturer's website or call the number on the package.
5. Compare exactly. If your lot number and best-by date aren't listed, your bag isn't part of that recall.

Why the original bag matters

The FDA recommends keeping pet food in its original bag (or putting the whole bag into a storage bin) so the UPC, lot number, product name, manufacturer and best-by date are always at hand. If you pour kibble loose into a bin and throw the bag away, you can't tell whether your food is affected.

If your food is on a recall list

• Stop feeding it immediately.
• Follow the recall notice for return, refund or disposal instructions.
• Secure it so pets and wildlife can't reach it, and wash bowls, scoops and storage bins.
• Wash your hands after handling; some contaminants (like Salmonella) can make people sick too.

If your pet ate recalled food

Watch for vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, loss of appetite or other signs listed in the recall notice. The ASPCA advises contacting your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 if your pet is unwell after eating the food. Bring the packaging or a photo of the label. See when to call an emergency vet.

If something seems wrong but there's no recall

The ASPCA lists warning signs: food that smells off, damaged or tampered packaging, food past its date, bugs or mold, or a pet that suddenly refuses the food or gets sick after a new bag. Stop feeding it, keep the packaging and remaining food, and:

• Report it to the FDA through its pet food complaint system, with the product details, lot number, best-by date, purchase place and date, and your pet's symptoms.
• Contact the manufacturer.

Your report helps the FDA spot problems that may lead to a recall.

Find pet stores and veterinarians near you.

Sources

1. ASPCA: Should I worry if my pet's food is recalled? (2022)
2. FDA: Proper storage of pet food and treats
3. ASPCA: Emergency care for your pet