Bravo recalls several pet food formulas citing Salmonella concerns

A pet food recall by Manchester, CT-based Bravo has been put in place. The recall involves several products that were distributed to retail stores, internet retailers — even directly to consumers, between November 21, 2014 and January 15, 2015.

Here's the information on the recalled product:

Bravo Blend Chicken Diet for Dogs and Cats
Product Number: 21-102
Size: 2 lb. (32 oz.) chub
Best used by date 11-13-16    

UPC: 829546211028

Recalls like this reiterate two important points when handling pet consumables: the need for safe handling and handwashing techniques, and saving the UPC code information from product packaging.

Salmonella, also referred to as salmonellosis, causes digestive problems, and dogs will typically present with fever, diarrhea, vomiting and weakness. Other symptoms can occur.

Salmonella can affect other animals —  not just the dogs who consume the treats. There is risk to humans just the same, 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 food or any surfaces exposed to any contaminated product.

The recall was initiated after routine testing of a sample from a 2 lb. chub of Bravo Chicken blend diet by the Colorado State Department of Agriculture revealed the presence of Salmonella.

It's important to note that out of "an abundance of caution," Bravo has decided to also include a handful of other products on a voluntary basis, though the company indicates that there has been no evidence of an issue involving the following products with "best by" date of November 13, 2016.

• Bravo Blend Chicken diet for dogs and cats


• Bravo Blend Turkey diet for dogs


• Bravo Balance Turkey diet for dogs

Consumers that have purchased any of the recalled items are urged to not offer them to their pets. Rather, they should be disposed of safely. Products can be returned to the point of purchase for a refund or store credit along with a refund claim form, which can be downloaded from the Bravo company website by clicking here.

Questions about the recall can be answered by calling Bravo at (866) 922-9222 on weekdays between 9:00 am and 4:00 pm (EST).

Click here to read the company's press release, which includes more detailed information on the additional three products included in the recall.

Lorrie Shaw is a freelance writer and owner of Professional Pet Sitting. Shoot her an email, contact her at 734-904-7279 or follow her adventures on Twitter.