Dog Treats Unsafe! Check the Latest Cat and Dog-Related Recalls

The U. S. Food and Drug Administration is warning consumers not to use Merrick Beef Filet Squares for dogs distributed by Merrick Pet Care with a package date of “Best By 111911” because the product may be contaminated with Salmonella. Click "updates" below on the widget to get details.

Pet ownership used to involve a fairly simple equation, with variables like total table scraps and degree of acceptable bed integration. But now there are a dizzying array of variables for pet owners. What kind of pets are safe for the home? What's the first ingredient in that bag of kibble? Is it tainted? Is it produced in a clean facility? Do flea-and-tick collars work, and are those pesticides safe for my pet or my children? Are there natural treatment alternatives? Which sweater will look best on my cat? Should I get pet health insurance? Is there lead in that squeaky toy? What's the most responsible way to clean up after my dog? Are my neighbor's lawn treatments endangering my dog's health? How cute would my cat look on this cool retro suitcase bed?

The good thing is that pets may actually improve human health, according to several studies (assuming you're not allergic or asthmatic. And, also good, is that the government is finally putting all its updates about pet health in a single location. In the Obama Administration's continuing drive to bring consumer news into the 21st century, the third in a series of widgets is now available for keeping track of pet health information, including information about dog and cat-related recalls. (The effort follows the release of widgets for food recalls and product recalls.)

Without further ado, here it is. Bookmark this page to keep tabs on all the latest recalls and other pet information so you can avoid health problems with your dogs and cats: