UK Vets Alert Dog Owners to Potential Risks from Made-in-China Chews

Veterinarians in the UK have issued a critical warning regarding certain dog chews made in China that could be linked to a rare condition known as "werewolf syndrome." The notification follows reports from the European Union regarding recall incidents associated with these products.

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) stated that affected chews, sold under the Barkoo and Chrisco brands, could cause a range of serious health issues, including panic attacks, aggression, muscle spasms, seizures, and, in extreme cases, death. Although no cases have been reported in the UK, the FSA cautioned that UK consumers might have unknowingly purchased these chews from international online sellers.

Tina Potter, Head of Incidents at the FSA, emphasized that there is no identified risk to human health, but dog owners should avoid these products as a precaution. Pet owners who have already given these chews to their dogs are urged to cease doing so immediately and consult a veterinarian if their pets exhibit concerning symptoms, such as sudden behavioral changes or seizures.

The FSA has also advised veterinarians to be vigilant for symptoms in dogs that may be related to these chews, which can have a long shelf life and may have been purchased months prior. The agency continues to monitor the situation closely.