FDA Investigation into Potential Link between Certain Diets and Canine Dilated Cardiomyopathy Updated June 27, 2019: In July 2018, the FDA announced that it had begun investigating reports of canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in dogs eating certain pet foods, many labeled as "grain-free," which contained a high proportion of peas, lentils, other legume seeds (pulses), and/or potatoes in various forms (whole, flour, protein, etc.) as main ingredients (listed within the first 10 ingredients in the ingredient list, before vitamins and minerals). Many of these case reports included breeds of dogs not previously known to have a genetic predisposition to the disease. The FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM) and the Veterinary Laboratory Investigation and Response Network (Vet-LIRN), a collaboration of government and veterinary diagnostic laboratories, continue to investigate this potential association. Based on the data collected and analyzed thus far, the agency believes that the potential association between diet and DCM in dogs is a complex scientific issue that may involve multiple factors. Click here for further information: www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/news-events/fda-investigation-potential-link-between-certain-diets-and-canine-dilated-cardiomyopathy
Recently the FDA published a communication regarding oral flea preventives. Although the publication is new, the warnings have been on the products since they have been released. Simparica and Comfortis are safe products but do have an increased risk in pets that have a history of neurologic issues. This is why our staff has asked you about your pet’s history prior to starting the medication. Below are links about the FDA publication and a safety summary sheet regarding Simparica. Please feel free to call our office with any questions at any time. Click here for more information