Dogs In Europe Affected By Werewolf Syndrome: Can It Transfer To Humans?

British health authorities have warned dog owners to avoid feeding their pets with certain dog chews imported from China. The warning by the United Kingdom's Food Standards Agency (FSA) came after the European Union (EU) predicted a possible link between dog food and a rare and alarming condition known as "werewolf syndrome." The alert was raised after a dog died in the Netherlands after eating products of Barkoo and Chrisco brands. Meanwhile, symptoms such as panic attacks, aggression, spasms and epileptic fits have been noted in many dogs across several countries.

What Is Werewolf Syndrome?

All the Chinese treats are potentially linked to dogs experiencing what is known as Werewolf Syndrome in dogs. The symptoms of this condition include:

• Panic Attacks
• Aggression
• Spasms
• Epileptic Fits
• In some extreme cases, death

Physical symptoms such as epileptic-style seizures, vomiting, diarrhoea and lethargy have also been observed in some cases. Reports have primarily come from pet parents in mainland Europe, prompting further investigations in countries including Germany, Finland, Belgium, Switzerland and now also in the Netherlands.

Amidst the outbreak, FSA has included advice for pet owners. They have asked people to stop feeding their pet dogs with the affected chews immediately. The products include Barkoo kaustange natur 29 cms, Barkoo kauknochen, geknotet natur 11cm, Barkoo Kauknochen geknotet 24cm, Barkoo Kauknochen geknotet mit Spirulina 12cm, Chrisco Products include Chrisco Tyggeruller med kylling & kyllingelever, 100g, Chrisco Tyggeruller 18 stk. - hvide, Chrisco Massive politistave, 2.stk. - brune,

Chrisco Massive politistave, 2stk. - hvide, Chrisco Tyggerulle m. kylling & kyllingelever, 1stk.

Also, if the dog is unwell and has been fed any of the dog chews listed, the owner should seek veterinary advice and provide detailed information to the vet about the foods and treats the dog has been fed.

"While there is no confirmed distribution of affected products to the UK, there is the possibility that some consumers may have purchased these online from international sellers," Tina Potter, head of incidents at the FSA said in a statement. "No unsafe dog chews have been identified but, based on international investigations so far, we are advising dog owners to avoid feeding the affected chews to dogs as a precaution," she added.

Can It Be Transfered To Humans?

No, there is no evidence that dog Werewolf syndrome can transfer to humans (Zootonic transfer).

What Is Causing Werewolf Syndrome In Dogs?

According to the Dutch Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA), contaminated batches are thought to contain harmful substances. Researchers currently suspect that chew bones, chew snacks and chew sticks may have been contaminated with mycotoxins (mould toxins) during the production process.

While no definitive contamination cause has been identified, early theories could also suggest the symptoms might be linked to chemical residue, bacterial toxins or allergens in the products. Experts have ruled out infections, vaccinations and tick remedies as the cause in affected dogs at the University Animal Hospital in Utrecht.