Merrick Pet Care, of Amarillo, Texas, USA initiated a voluntary recall of a limited amount of beef dog treat varieties due to the potential that they contain elevated levels of a naturally-occurring beef thyroid hormone, according to the United States Food and Drug Administration.

The voluntary recall covers only specific production codes of the following beef treat products:

  • Castor & Pollux Good Buddy Prime Patties Real Beef Recipe 4 oz.
  • Castor & Pollux Good Buddy Sausage Cuts Real Beef Recipe 5 oz.
  • Merrick Backcountry Great Plains Real Beef Jerky 4.5 oz.
  • Merrick Backcountry Great Plains Real Beef Sausage Cuts 5 oz.
  • Merrick Backcountry Great Plains Real Steak Patties 4 oz.

Discovery of thyroid problem in Merrick dog treats

This potential health risk was brought to Merrick’s attention as a result of the FDA sharing one consumer complaint where the dog’s health was temporarily impacted while eating Merrick Backcountry Great Plains Real Beef Jerky 4.5 oz. The dog’s health improved and fully recovered after discontinuing consumption of the treat. "Pet owners should know there is limited risk given treats are not intended for full nutrition and should only be occasionally consumed, however out of an abundance of caution, and to maintain trust with our consumers, we are withdrawing all potentially impacted product," the company press release said. "We have not received any similar reports to date from consumers about issues with these products."

No other Merrick or Castor & Pollux products are impacted. These treats are distributed in the US through pet specialty, grocery and online retailers with limited distribution in Canada.

The voluntary recall is limited to the production codes listed below. To locate the production code, consumers should look on the lower back of the treat bag. No other production codes, sizes or varieties of these products are affected.

  • Castor & Pollux Good Buddy Prime Patties Real Beef Recipe 4 oz.; UPC – 780872510806; Best Before Date Range - 5/1/2017 - 9/1/2019
  • Castor & Pollux Good Buddy Sausage Cuts Real Beef Recipe 5 oz.; UPC – 780872510745; Best Before Date Range - 5/1/2017 - 9/1/2019
  • Merrick Backcountry Great Plains Real Beef Jerky 4.5 oz.; UPC – 022808786160; Best Before Date Range - 5/1/2019 - 9/1/2019
  • Merrick Backcountry Great Plains Real Beef Sausage Cuts 5 oz. ; UPC – 022808786047; Best Before Date Range - 5/1/2017 - 9/1/2019
  • Merrick Backcountry Great Plains Real Steak Patties 4 oz.; UPC – 022808786078; Best Before Date Range - 5/1/2017 - 9/1/2019

Effects of elevated beef thyroid hormone on dogs

Dogs consuming high levels of beef thyroid hormone may exhibit the following symptoms: increased thirst and urination, weight loss, increased heart rate and restlessness. These symptoms may resolve when consumption decreases. If a dog consumes high levels for a long period of time, these symptoms may increase in severity and may include vomiting, diarrhea and rapid or labored breathing. If your pet has consumed the product listed and has exhibited any of these symptoms, please discontinue feeding and contact your veterinarian.