Boss Pet Products Inc. of Maple Heights, Ohio is recalling its Diggers Natural Treat Pig Ear pet treats because the products may be contaminated with salmonella.

One of Boss Pet’s suppliers, Keys Manufacturing Co. Inc., has notified the company that a batch of its pig ear treats tested positive for salmonella. Boss said Keys, which issued a voluntary recall of its Pig Ears for Pet Treats earlier this month, identified several shipments of potentially affected product that were shipped out under the Diggers brand in November 2010 through April 2011.

The recalled Diggers Natural Chews Pig Ears are as follows:

Bulk pig ears in boxes of 100 (UPC #0-72929-00038-6)

Bulk pig ears shrink-wrapped in boxes of 50 (UPC #0-72929-99120-2)

2-pack bags shipped in cases of 12 bags (UPC #0-72929-99504-0)

4-pack bags shipped in cases of 12 bags (UPC #0-72929-00227-4)

8-pack bags shipped in cases of 12 bags (UPC #0-72929-99584-2)

They were distributed via truck to distributors in the following states:

Alabama, California, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri Montana, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, and Washington.

A report of an ill dog in Missouri prompted the recall. Pets with salmonella infections may become lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever and vomiting. Some pets may only experience a decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. Infected but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. Pet owners should contact their veterinarian immediately if their pet consumed the recalled treats or is experiencing any of the above symptoms.

People handling the treats can become infected with salmonella, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the product or any surfaces exposed to these products.

Healthy people infected with salmonella may experience some or all of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. Although rare, salmonella can result in more serious ailments.