Important News

Dear Friends,

We all have many concerns and misgivings during this recent tragic food recall. I am aware of many of my patients that have been sick or even have died as a result of the melamine tainted wheat gluten.    

    Many people do not realize that the United States imports 70% of all wheat gluten used in both human and animal food from Asia and the European Union. These countries often use pesticides and insecticides that are banned for safety reasons in our own country. I believe that the FDA is now realizing that our current established methods of food inspection are inadequate in light of our global economy. It will not be surprising if we do not find the human food supply is tainted as well in the future.

    I am encouraging our legislators to change the current laws in New Hampshire to reflect the fact that most of us consider our pets to be part of our family, and not just a “belonging”. This will help us have more recourse in the future if wholesome foods are not being sold to our beloved pets.

    In the meantime I am recommending that my clients who are concerned feed a homemade diet at least temporarily, until we see how this unfolds. Keep in mind that to feed home-cooked food to pets long term is difficult to do with the proper balance of calcium, phosphorus, and special amino acids like Taurine. But for short term feeding, chicken and rice, or boiled hamburger and rice is fine for our dogs, or canned tuna and salmon is appropriate for most cats. I will be posting some links to homemade diets in this next week that can be used on a more long term basis that are more balanced.

    If you are at all concerned about your pets health, a physical exam and some screening blood work can be very helpful to put your mind at ease. Don't hesitate to call me, of course.

Sincerely,

Dr. Diane

Recall Information  1-866-895-2708

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Last modified: 04/08/07