A veterinary surgeon has advised dog owners not to feed deli meats to their pets due to the current listeria outbreak affecting at least 12 states in the US. This outbreak has resulted in two deaths and 28 hospitalizations.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) is still investigating the specific products involved, but many affected individuals reported eating meats sliced at deli counters.
Listeria is a serious foodborne illness that can also pose a threat to dogs.
Dr. Georgia Jeremiah, co-founder of the dog-wellness company Wag!, warned that "listeria can indeed affect dogs, and infections can be serious or fatal."
Puppies, senior dogs, and those with weaker immune systems are especially vulnerable.
Advice for Pet Owners
"While a small amount of deli meat as a treat typically isn't harmful, it's best to avoid it altogether during an outbreak like this—just like with humans, contaminated food is the main risk factor," Jeremiah told Newsweek.
Recently, dogs were also at risk of contracting listeria due to a nationwide recall by the online pet food subscription site Viva Raw.
The company recalled five products after the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) found listeria monocytogenes in a sample of Viva Turkey for Dogs.
In the current outbreak, human food is the primary concern.
Understanding Listeria
Vulnerable groups, including pregnant women, individuals with weakened immune systems, and those aged 65 and over, are advised by the CDC to avoid deli meats unless reheated to an internal temperature of 165 F or until steaming hot.
Listeria is a serious infection caused by consuming food contaminated with the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes.
About 1,600 people in the U.S. contract listeria annually, with approximately 260 deaths.
Better Treat Options
Dr. Jeremiah also noted that deli meats are not ideal treats for pets due to their high sodium content and preservatives.
"A little bit here and there is usually OK. Cooked, lean meats like chicken or turkey, blueberries, carrots, and dog treats made with healthy ingredients, in moderation, are all great treat options," she said.
