Dry pet food has been linked to several outbreaks of salmonella in people over the past few years. People are not eating the dry pet food, that is not the cause of the salmonella-induced food poisoning. The food poisoning stems from the fact that many people are failing to wash their hands after handling dry food.

Those at greatest risk for dry dog food-borne salmonella are young children. Crawling babies and toddlers are attracted to the bowls of dry food and love to play with the kibble, then put their hands (or some of the kibble) into their mouths.

The second group at risk are the people within in the household responsible for feeding the dog(s). Handling the food bowls, water bowls and dry dog food, then not following up with a thorough hand washing afterwards.

Dog food, both dry and canned, should be handled just like people food to avoid salmonella contamination. Keep the dog’s eating area and food prep areas clean, the food and water bowls cleaned daily and hands should be washed in warm, soapy water after coming into contact with dog food and feeding bowls.