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The FDA began investigating the issue after a customer reported to the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services that their puppy litter had become ill. The FDA informed Blue Ridge Beef that the products had tested positive for salmonella last month.

Salmonella poses a risk to both pets who consumed the contaminated dog food and owners who handled it, according to the FDA. The risk is high for people "if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the products or any surfaces exposed to these products."

In addition to Massachusetts, the product was also sold in Virginia, North Carolina, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, and New York.

Infected pets may experience lethargy, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, vomiting, and decreased appetite, the FDA said. Healthy people infected with salmonella may experience similar symptoms.

In rare cases, salmonella in humans can lead to serious conditions such as arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, and urinary tract symptoms. Pets or humans experiencing any of the above symptoms should see a veterinarian or doctor immediately.