|
|
Sissy, an English Springer Spaniel, age nine, was euthanized March 1 due to acute kidney failure believed to be caused from eating contaminated dog products, according to her owners, Dave and Darla Plotts of Coudersport.
"She was the love of our life," said Darla Plotts.
The dog had been eating Cadillac and Ol' Roy dog foods, as well as various Ol' Roy dog treats. The products were bought from Wal-Mart, according to Darla Plotts.
Sissy then began experiencing symptoms now associated with other pets who have eaten the contaminated food, including not eating, drinking unusual amounts water and vomiting.
"I called my vet because I wanted it to be on record," said Darla Plotts.
The owners eventually took her to Northern Tier Vet Clinic in Knoxville. Sissy received blood work and her kidneys were flushed; the clinic decided to kept her overnight and did more blood work the next day. Her condition worsened, so the owners decided to have her euthanized.
The cause of death was acute kidney failure and, according to Darla Plotts, Sissy was not the only pet to come into the clinic with similar symptoms.
"They said they had a few pets come in sick," said Darla Plotts, "but none that died."
The pet food scare has killed several cats and dogs nationwide and caused kidney failure in many more.
Menu Foods, an Ontario, Canada-based company that produced the affected food, announced Saturday it was recalling 88 brands of dog and cat food sold around North America, including Iams, Nutro and Eukanuba. Major retailers such as Wal-Mart, Safeway and Kroger distribute the food.
Those with pets who have consumed the affected food should consult a veterinarian immediately.
