Purina dog food recalled over toxicity risk

INDIANAPOLIS (WXIN) — Specialty dog food sold for pets with food sensitivities is being recalled because it can make them sick.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) said the recall involves select lots of Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets EL Elemental (PPVD EL) prescription dry dog food.

The dog food was distributed throughout the United States by prescription only through veterinary clinics, Purina Vet Direct, Purina for Professionals, and other select retailers with the ability to validate a prescription.

The recall was initiated after two dogs exhibited signs of vitamin D toxicity after consuming the diet. Once they were taken off the diet, the dogs recovered.

The FDA said the food may have elevated levels of vitamin D. While this is an essential nutrient for dogs, ingesting elevated levels can cause health issues, including “vomiting, loss of appetite, increased thirst, increased urination, and excessive drooling to renal (kidney) dysfunction.”

The dog food impacted by the recall includes:

Anyone with the recalled dog food should stop feeding it to their pet and throw it away in a container where no other animals, including wildlife, can get to it. If their dog shows signs of weight loss, excessive drooling, vomiting, loss of appetite or increased thirst or urination while eating this diet, pet owners should contact their veterinarian.

“We apologize to pet owners and veterinarians for any concerns or inconvenience this situation has caused,” said Purina. “As pet experts and pet owners ourselves, the health and well-being of pets is our top priority.”

Anyone with questions or needs assistance in getting a refund can contact Purina at 1-800-345-5678 Monday through Saturday, 8 am to 5 pm CST, or send an email through their online form.