Dog food company Years has issued a voluntary recall of its fresh meals following reports of dogs developing sudden-onset eye problems.
The company is advising customers to stop feeding Years Fresh Meals immediately and not to give the food to other animals, donate it or sell it. The recall applies to Years Fresh Meals but excludes its Chef’s Collection.
The precautionary action follows reports of dogs developing sudden bilateral dry eye, a condition affecting tear production in both eyes. Years has stressed that a causal link between its food and the reported cases has not been established and investigations are continuing.
According to Years, its investigation has identified buckwheat as a potential contributing factor, including the possibility of contamination within the buckwheat supply. The ingredient was introduced as part of a recipe change several months ago. Independent laboratory testing and further investigations are ongoing.
Years said it had received 192 reports of potential, but as yet unverified, eye issues from approximately 40,000 customers by early Wednesday 19 August.
What should owners look out for?
The condition being reported is keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS), commonly known as dry eye. Signs can include:
- red or inflamed eyes
- squinting or sensitivity to light
- rubbing at the eyes
- eyes appearing dry or dull
- a thick or mucus-like discharge around the eye.
Dry eye can be painful and, if severe or left untreated, can potentially cause damage to the eye and affect vision.
Dog owners who have been feeding Years Fresh Meals should follow the company’s recall advice and stop feeding the affected products. Owners who notice any unusual eye symptoms in their dog should contact their veterinary practice promptly for advice.
Years says its investigation is continuing and that the recall has been introduced as a precaution rather than because a causal relationship between the food and the reported eye problems has been proven.
