In 2018, Golden Rewards, a private label dog treat brand sold at Walmart, initiated a voluntary recall due to potential contamination risks. Pet owners sought clarity on affected products, health concerns, and recommended actions for their dogs.
This article outlines key details of the Golden Rewards dog treats recall 2018, including specific product codes, timeline, and consumer guidance to support safe pet care decisions.
| Recall Identifier | Product Code | UPC | Best By Date Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Recall # Z124516 | 6296920311 | 0 569692 0311 8 | SEP2017 – JAN2018 |
| Recall # Z124517 | 6296920329 | 0 569692 0329 3 | SEP2017 – FEB2018 |
| Recall # Z124518 | 6296920337 | 0 569692 0337 8 | OCT2017 – FEB2018 |
| Recall # Z124519 | 6296920345 | 0 569692 0345 3 | OCT2017 – JAN2018 |
Scope of the Golden Rewards Recall 2018
Retail Distribution and Store Impact
The Golden Rewards dog treats recall 2018 primarily affected Walmart stores nationwide, as the treats were sold as a Walmart brand. The recall impacted multiple states, and Walmart coordinated closely with suppliers to remove affected inventory from shelves.
Reason for the Recall
Potential Contaminant and Safety Concerns
The recall was initiated due to possible metal fragment contamination discovered during routine quality checks. There was a potential risk that small metal pieces could pose choking or injury hazards to dogs, prompting the voluntary withdrawal of specific lot codes.
Symptoms to Monitor in Dogs
Signs of Metal Ingestion or Gastrointestinal Issues
Pet owners were advised to watch for signs such as vomiting, reduced appetite, lethargy, abdominal pain, or changes in bowel movements. If any of these symptoms appeared, contacting a veterinarian promptly was recommended to ensure proper evaluation and care.
Product Identification and Codes
Checking Treat Packaging Against Recall Details
Consumers were instructed to inspect treat bags for the specific lot codes and best by dates listed in the recall notices. Matching these details against the official recall list helped determine whether unopened or partially used packages needed to be returned or discarded.
Long Term Pet Treat Safety Practices
Moving forward, the Golden Rewards dog treats recall 2018 highlighted the importance of checking lot codes, staying informed about recalls, and maintaining open communication with veterinarians to safeguard pet health.
- Verify lot codes and best by dates before purchasing or feeding treats.
- Monitor your dog for any health changes after introducing new treats.
- Stay updated on recall notices through official retailer and manufacturer channels.
- Consult your veterinarian promptly if you suspect ingestion of recalled products.
- Consider diversifying treat brands and sources to mitigate risk from single-point issues.
FAQ
Reader questions
What should I do if I have Golden Rewards treats at home from 2017–2018?
Check the lot code and best by date on the packaging against the recall list. If your package matches the recalled codes, stop feeding the treats and contact your veterinarian if your dog shows any symptoms, then return or dispose of the product safely.
My dog ate some of these treats but seems fine. Do I still need to act?
Yes, monitor your dog closely for any signs of vomiting, lethargy, or digestive issues and consult your veterinarian immediately, even if your dog appears fine, as metal fragments can cause internal injuries that may not show symptoms right away.
Were any other brands or products affected by this recall?
The recall was specific to Golden Rewards treats sold at Walmart under the stated lot codes and date ranges; other brands and products were not included unless later notices linked similar contamination issues.
Can I get a refund for recalled Golden Rewards dog treats?
Yes, Walmart offered refunds for recalled products, and consumers were instructed to return the affected bags to any Walmart store or follow instructions on the recall notice for mail-in claims if in-store returns were not feasible.