Australia Launches PetFAST - A World-first System To Support Pet Food Safety

A new tracking system, the first of its kind in the world, has been launched to track health problems in dogs and cats that are suspected of being related to pet food. The Pet Food Adverse Event System of Tracking – or PetFAST– is a joint initiative of the Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) and the Pet Food Industry Association of Australia (PFIAA). “When I came across a spate of unusual kidney disease cases in small dogs in 2008, there was no centralised reporting system to help monitor the extent and impact of the problem occurring around Australia,” said AVA member Dr Linda Fleeman, one of the driving forces behind PetFAST. “PetFAST was designed to fill the gap, and allow speedy reporting and monitoring, while also making communication between vets and the pet food industry quicker and easier.” The system will be used only by veterinarians who can submit online reports on relevant cases where they suspect a pet food or treat might be causing a problem.The reports are monitored for any similarities that might indicate a broader problem with pet food available in Australia. PFIAA President Dr Roger Bektash said that this new approach will be of great benefit to pet owners by providing an extra level of protection for the health of Australia’s furry family members. “Pet food manufacturers already take product safety very seriously, but this system will provide the coordination and communication with the veterinary profession that has been missing in the past,” he said. An online checklist is available to veterinarians to help them gather the right information when they suspect a health issue caused by pet food. “It is important for owners to take their pets to the vet if they suspect food-related health problems. It’s also a good idea to discuss your concerns with the manufacturer of the pet food,” he said. Pet owners can’t use PetFAST as it requires clinical information that only a veterinarian can provide. PetFAST in now available to all veterinarians in Australia at www.ava.com.au/petfast. For further information and requests for interviews contact the AVA media office on (02) 9431 5062, 0439 628 898 or [email protected].

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