MAHONING VALLEY No dog illness linked to tainted pet food

The problem was caused by a fungus on corn and other crops.
By DENISE DICK
VINDICATOR STAFF WRITER
Although pet owners in some parts of the state have suffered the loss of their canine pals because of tainted food, the problem hasn't hit hard in the Mahoning Valley.
Last month, Diamond Pet Food announced that aflatoxin, a naturally occurring toxic chemical byproduct, had been found in a product manufactured at its Gaston, S.C., plant. It recalled the food a few days later.
Aflatoxin occurs from the growth of a fungus on corn and other crops.
Since the announcement, about 100 dog deaths have been reported from the food in Ohio and other states, according to press reports. There have been no reports of cat deaths.
Dr. William Kerpsack of Youngstown's Kerpsack Veterinary Clinic, who said his clinic hasn't seen any cases of the disease, said the byproduct causes liver damage in the animals.
Symptoms include lethargy, nausea, diarrhea, loss of appetite and jaundice around eyes and gums.
Treatment, which would be determined after completing blood chemistry testing, could include fluids and antibiotic and anabolic medications, Dr. Kerpsack said.
Sick dogs
Countryside Veterinary Clinic on South Salem-Warren Road reported two dogs that experienced diarrhea, but it wasn't conclusively linked to dog food. Both dogs have been treated and have improved.
Dr. Robert Reynolds of South Mill Pet Care Center in Boardman said has heard from a handful of clients concerned about the pet food news, but no animals have been reported ill.
The recall affected Diamond food and according to the company's Web site, can be identified by the date code and best buy dates listed on the package's back panel. Recalled products display a "G" in the 11th or 12th position of the date code on 18-pound to 55-pound bags and best buy dates between March 1, 2007, to June 10, 2007.
The "G" will be in the ninth position on smaller food bags.