Pet food and treats, like many other types of food, can be contaminated with pathogenic germs that cause foodborne diseases including salmonellosis and listeriosis. Although the FDA continues to work to decrease pet food contamination, pet owners should be aware of the possible hazards. By following these easy and safe handling rules, you may reduce your chance of contracting a foodborne disease from contaminated pet food and treats:
Purchasing Pet Food Suggestions
Purchase pet food in good condition (cans, pouches, or bags). Examine the box for evident indications of wear and tear, such as dents, splits, and discoloration. One also buys the best dog food in Australia.
Pet Food Preparation Hints
- Start and finish with clean hands. Wash your hands with soap and hot water for at least 20 seconds before and after handling pet food and treats.
- After each usage, wash pet food bowls and scoop equipment with soap and hot water.
- You should never use your pet’s feeding dish as a scooping device. Instead, use a clean scoop, spoon, or cup. Only scoop pet food using the scooping utensil.
- Throw outdated or rotten pet food in a secure manner, such as by placing it in a tightly sealed plastic bag in a covered garbage bin.
Storage Suggestions for Pet Food
- Refrigerate or discard any unwanted or leftover canned or pouched pet food as soon as possible. Cover refrigerated pet food tightly. Set your refrigerator to 40 degrees Fahrenheit or below.
- Dry pet food should be kept in a cool, dry area. The temperature should be less than 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Excessive heat or dampness can cause nutrients to degrade.
- Dry pet food should be stored in its original bag, with the top securely folded down.
- Keep pet food in a safe place to avoid your pet consuming the entire amount at once.
How often do my dogs need to eat?
Most experts agree that feeding twice daily is optimal for most adult dogs. Once a day is a long time for dogs to go between meals. Puppies should be fed 3 to 6 times daily (small puppies need more frequent feeding to prevent hypoglycemia). Talk to your veterinarian about the proper feeding schedule for your dog. Go for the premium dog food Australia.
Which type of dog bowl is best for you?
Experts recommend avoiding plastic bowls for dog food and water. This is because dogs develop allergic reactions and hypersensitivity, which can cause rashes and acne on the chin and face. Not only is plastic a potential irritant, but the bowl also contains bacteria and other microbes that affect your dog. Plastic bowls are difficult to keep clean due to the small corners and crevices that bacteria can inhabit. For dog food and water, it is best to use a metal or ceramic bowl.