Family questions whether dog died because of jerky treats under FDA investigation

FLOSSMOOR, Ill. (WLS) -- A south suburban family is questioning if a pet died because of a popular dog treat that's being investigated by the FDA.

This case is one of nearly 5,000 reported to the FDA, in which the dogs came down with stomach and kidney problems after consuming dog jerky treats of various brands. But for now, the FDA says it's found no evidence the treats are getting those dogs sick.

Six-year-old Candy was a bundle of energy, her family says, before her life last week abruptly came to an end.

"Her eyes just started to glaze over. And I'm like 'No, this can't be happening.' And next thing you know, she is gone," said Jasmine Johnson.

The Johnsons say it all began a couple weeks ago after opening a new bag of Purina "Waggin' Train" chicken jerky tenders.

After feeding Candy a handful of treats over the course of a week, the Johnsons say the silky terrier began feeling lethargic and urinating frequently before becoming unresponsive.

"The vet told us to take her in the room, and she turned around, and she came out, and thirty seconds later said Candy was gone," said Barry Johnson.

The vet offered the Johnsons no cause of death, and a couple days after Candy was cremated, the family read about the FDA's investigation into multiple brands of dog jerky treats imported from China. Among them are Purina's Waggin' Train chicken tenders.

The FDA last week said it has received more than 4,800 complaints of illness. More than 1,000 canine deaths have been reported.

ABC7's Eric Horng: "How can you be sure it was the treats?"

Barry Johnson: "Because a six year old, healthy, vibrant dog full of life that had no previous health issues just doesn't die."

But the FDA says despite the seven-year investigation, there's been no evidence the treats are getting the dogs sick. Nestle Purina said in a statement: "The FDA states that their investigation continues but they have not identified a specific cause for reported pet illnesses. Purina continues to support the work of the FDA to help maintain a safe supply of quality pet products in the U.S."

Nestle Purina maintains its dog treats have always been safe, but recently announced changes at its plant in China, including a new supplier.