Storing food for a working dog team

Retain the label

FDA pet-food guidance recommends keeping original product information, including the batch and best-by details. For dry food placed in another storage container, its preferred approach is to keep the bag inside. That makes a concern easier to investigate than an unlabelled bin containing several mixed products or batches.

Organise the feed area

Choose an appropriate location according to the product’s instructions and keep it secure from unintended access. Identify separate diets clearly so a relief worker does not substitute food intended for another dog. In a large team, use a record that links the actual ration to the dog and current product rather than relying only on a familiar scoop.

Build cleaning into the routine

FDA advises cleaning and drying storage containers between batches and cleaning feeding equipment. Allocate responsibility so the task occurs during busy work periods as well as quiet weeks. Follow the particular product’s instructions for opened wet or perishable food rather than applying the dry-food routine to everything stored in the feed area.

Keep a response plan

If packaging is damaged, a product seems abnormal or a dog becomes unwell after eating it, retain the identifying information and contact the appropriate professional or supplier. Do not keep feeding a suspect product merely to finish a bag. Record which dogs received it and when. Separate an observed illness from a confirmed cause while the concern is assessed, and use the relevant local reporting process where needed.

Common questions

Sources & further reading

References for this guide. Rules and services can change; check the responsible organisation for current details.

• FDA: Proper storage of pet food and treats (opens in a new tab)

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