Recently you may have heard of the various pet food recalls.  Just like with human foods, there's always that chance that something could happen to contaminate the food.  With your own food, you're careful to wash the produce, fully cook your meat, etc.  So what about your pet's food?

While there's really no way to prevent your pet's prepackaged food from being contaminated, there are things you can do protect yourself and your pet.

1) Carefully wash your hands before and after handling your pet's food.  It is possible for you to become sick if the food is contaminated.

2) Wash your pet's food and water bowls frequently.  This will help keep bacteria, etc from building up on the surfaces of the bowls.

3) Watch & listen for pet food recalls.  Many people buy pet food in larger quantities then transfer it from the bag to a container.  KEEP THE BAG!  If your pet's food is recalled, you will need to lot number and date to see if your particular supply is affected.

4) Carefully look at your pet's food with each new bag.  Does it look and smell the same as before?

If your pet's food is recalled, immediately STOP feeding the food and call your veterinarian.  Depending on the problem with the food, you may need to bring your pet to the veterinarian for tests or treatment.

No matter what brand of variety of food you feed, contamination is always a possibility.  Ask your veterinarian for recommendations on the food your pet should be eating.

For more information on recalled pet foods, visit  http://www.humanesociety.org/animals/resources/facts/pet_food_safety.html