Boss Pet Products, Inc.
Recalls Pig Ear Products for Dogs
May 17, 2011
Possible Salmonella Health Risk

Boss Pet Products, Inc. announced that it is recalling its Diggers Natural Treat Pig Ear pet treats because the products have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella. 

Boss Pet has been notified by one of its suppliers, Keys Manufacturing Company, Inc., that a batch of Keys’ pig ear treats tested positive for Salmonella. Keys Manufacturing has initiated a voluntary product recall in cooperation with the FDA and has identified several shipments of potentially affected products which Boss Pet shipped out under its Diggers brand in November, 2010 through April, 2011. 

Blackman Industries of Kansas City, KS, also announced a recall of pig ears today.

So far, there has been a report of one dog in Missouri having Salmonella. 

The recalled Diggers Natural Chews Pig Ears were sold in the following package sizes:

• Bulk Pig Ears in boxes of 100 (UPC #0-72929-00038-6)
• Bulk Pig Ears Shrink Wrapped in boxes of 50 (UPC #0-72929-99120-2)
• 2-Pack Bags shipped in cases of 12 bags (UPC #0-72929-99504-0)
• 4-Pack Bags shipped in cases of 12 bags (UPC #0-72929-00227-4)
• 8-Pack Bags shipped in cases of 12 bags (UPC #0-72929-99584-2)

These products have been distributed via truck to distributors in the following states:
MT, CA, WA, OK, TN, NY, KS, OH, TX, MS, AL, OR, UT, IA, MO, IL, IN, LA, and MN.


Boss Pet has been working with the FDA to identify any products that might contain the bacteria while the manufacturer of the product and the FDA are continuing the investigation to determine what caused the problem.



Consumers who have purchased Diggers Natural Chews Pig Ear products are urged to return them to their place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact Boss Pet at 1-800-445-6347 during normal business hours (9:00 AM – 5:00PM ET) or on our website at www.bosspet.com.

"Salmonella can affect animals and there is risk to humans from handling contaminated pet products. People handling dry pet food and/or treats can become infected with Salmonella, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the chews or any surfaces exposed to these products.

"Healthy people infected with Salmonella should monitor themselves for some or all of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever."

"Rarely, Salmonella can result in more serious ailments, including arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, and urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with this product should contact their healthcare providers."

"Pets with Salmonella infections may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, and vomiting. Some pets will have only decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain."

"Infected but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans."

"If your pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian." 

Official FDA Press Release