FDA Investigates Euthanasia Drug Found in Dog Food on Store Shelves

The Food and Drug Administration is launching an investigation after learning that a drug used for euthanasia was found in dog food already on store shelves for purchase by consumers.

The drug found in the dog food is called Pentobarbital, and it’s used by veterinarians to put dogs, cats, and even horses to sleep. Traces of the drug were found in sixty-two samples of wet dog food from more than two dozen brands.

The dog food in question is wet dog food found in cans. One brand in particular is Gravy Train. Gravy Train is made by Big Heart Brands, which is owned by Smuckers.

Big Heart Brand also makes Meow Mix, Milk Bone, Kibbles ‘n Bits, 9 Lives, Natural Balance, Nature’s Recipe, Canine Carry Outs, Milo’s Kitchen, Alley Cat, Jerky Treats, Meaty Bone, Pounce, and Snausages.

The study was conducted by Ellipse Analytics, who found traces of Pentobarbital, a barbiturate, in nine out of every fifteen cans of Gravy Train that the company tested. Gravy Train repeatedly came back testing positive for the drug.

While the drugs found in Gravy Train are not likely to be lethal to dogs, federal law prohibits any amount to be used in food. Gravy Train went on to issue a statement that they have had no complaints about pets becoming ill or dying after consuming any of their products.

How exactly did the drug make its way into the pet food in question? It’s a well-known fact that generic dog foods and generic dog food meals contain the remains of euthanized animals. If a product contains “animal byproduct meal,” then it’s almost certain that any type of animal, with the exception of a bird, may be found in your pet’s food.

Pentobarbital found in pet food has become such an issue that dogs and cats are now building up a tolerance to the drug.

If you are concerned that your dog or cat may have consumed any of the products that we listed above, return the product to the store where it was purchased for a refund.