What was recalled
If you have been purchasing wellness products for your canine companion from Fi Barking Labs Corp., it is important to pause and check the specific details of what is currently in your home. This recall involves two distinct dietary supplements designed specifically for dogs, distributed under the brand name "Fi." The company, which is headquartered in New York, New York, initiated this voluntary action on September 3, 2026. It is worth noting that a press release update was issued later on September 18, 2026, to ensure the corporate identity was correctly listed as Fi Barking Labs Corp., but the scope of the products involved remains tied to the initial announcement.
The specific items subject to this recall are not general pet foods, but rather targeted supplements. The first product is the "Fi Calming supplement for Dogs" with a net weight of 180 grams. The second item is the "Fi 8-in-1 Formula supplement for Dogs," which also comes in a 180-gram container. Because this is a safety recall driven by potential microbial contamination rather than a manufacturing defect in the bottle or packaging itself, you cannot identify the recalled items solely by looking at the exterior of the jar. You must look closely at the label to find the lot number and the Universal Product Code (UPC) printed on the bottom or side of the container.
To determine if your product is part of this recall, you need to verify two specific data points against the official list. For the Fi Calming supplement for Dogs 180 g, the affected lot number is 26118, and the UPC is 8 50064 80011 1. For the Fi 8-in-1 Formula supplement for Dogs 180 g, you should check for lot number 26159 with a corresponding UPC of 8 50055 11168 4. If your product does not match these exact lot numbers and UPCs, it is not included in this specific safety alert.
These products were not sold exclusively in physical pet stores. The distribution network for these recalled supplements was primarily direct-to-consumer through the company’s own channels, as well as through major online retailers. Specifically, Fi distributed these items directly to consumers and also listed them for sale on prominent e-commerce platforms including Amazon and Chewy.com. If you purchased these supplements from either of those websites or directly from Fi between the production date and the recall announcement date, you need to inspect your storage area immediately. The decision to issue this recall was made out of an abundance of caution after it was discovered that a key ingredient supplied to Fi’s manufacturer had the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella, prompting the manufacturer to suspend production while an investigation takes place.
The hazard, explained
When we talk about a recall due to potential Salmonella contamination, it is helpful to understand exactly what is happening at a microscopic level and how that translates into risk for both your pets and your household. In this specific case involving Fi supplements, the issue stems from a single ingredient supplied to the manufacturer. It is important to clarify that the product itself was not necessarily tested positive for active bacteria at every stage of production; rather, the presence of a contaminated raw material created a "potential" pathway for infection. This distinction matters because it explains why the company suspended production immediately. They are investigating the supply chain to ensure no other batches contain this compromised ingredient, acting out of an abundance of caution before any confirmed illness occurs.
Salmonella is a group of bacteria that naturally lives in the intestines of many animals, including pets, and can contaminate food or supplements during processing if hygiene protocols fail. When these bacteria are ingested by a dog, they do not just sit harmlessly in the stomach. Instead, they invade the lining of the intestinal tract. This invasion triggers the body’s immune response, leading to inflammation. For your pet, this physical process manifests as gastrointestinal distress: the gut becomes irritated, leading to diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. The bacteria multiply rapidly, which is why symptoms can escalate quickly from mild lethargy to severe bloody diarrhea.
The risk extends beyond the animal itself to the humans living in the home. This is known as a zoonotic transmission, meaning the disease spreads from animals to people. The mechanism here is primarily fecal-oral. After your pet ingests the contaminated supplement, they will excrete Salmonella bacteria in their waste. These bacteria are highly resilient and can survive on surfaces like floors, bedding, or food bowls for days. If a person handles the pet’s waste, cleans up after them, or even touches surfaces contaminated by the animal without thoroughly washing their hands, they transfer the bacteria to their mouth. This is especially dangerous for anyone who has not washed their hands properly after contact with the product or the animal.
For healthy individuals, the body often fights off the infection on its own, but it causes significant discomfort. The bacteria release toxins that disrupt normal gut function, leading to nausea, vomiting, and fever. In rare cases, particularly for those with weakened immune systems, the elderly, or young children, the bacteria can move beyond the intestines into the bloodstream. This is known as bacteremia. From there, it can spread to other parts of the body, causing arterial infections, joint inflammation (arthritis), or heart valve infections (endocarditis). While these severe outcomes are uncommon, they underscore why immediate discontinuation of the product and strict hygiene are critical steps in preventing harm.
Understanding this mechanism helps explain why the recall is so urgent. Even if your pet seems fine right now, they could be an asymptomatic carrier, shedding bacteria without showing obvious signs of illness. By removing the source of contamination—the specific lots of Fi supplements—you break the chain of transmission before it starts. This proactive approach protects not just your pet’s immediate health but the broader safety of your entire household environment.
Who is most at risk
When dealing with a potential Salmonella contamination in pet supplements, the concept of "risk" extends well beyond the animal that ingested the product. While any dog consuming these specific Fi supplements could theoretically develop an infection, the severity of the outcome depends heavily on who is handling the product and how their body responds to bacterial exposure. It is important to understand that Salmonella is a zoonotic pathogen, meaning it can easily jump from animals to humans. Therefore, every member of the household who touches the supplement container, cleans up after the pet, or interacts with surfaces where the product was stored is potentially exposed.
The individuals most vulnerable to serious complications from Salmonella are those whose immune systems are not fully developed or are compromised. This includes young children, particularly those under the age of five. Their immune systems are still learning to fight off infections, and they often have habits, such as putting hands in their mouths or touching pet areas, that increase the likelihood of transferring bacteria from contaminated surfaces to their mouths. For these young ones, even a mild gastrointestinal upset can quickly escalate into severe dehydration or systemic infection requiring hospitalization.
Elderly adults and individuals with chronic health conditions also face heightened risks. As we age, our immune defenses naturally weaken, making it harder for the body to clear the bacteria before it spreads beyond the intestines. Similarly, people undergoing chemotherapy, those living with HIV/AIDS, organ transplant recipients on immunosuppressant drugs, or anyone with diabetes or liver disease are at a significantly higher risk for invasive salmonellosis. In these cases, the infection can move from the gut into the bloodstream, leading to life-threatening conditions like arterial infections, endocarditis (infection of the heart lining), or severe arthritis. The recall notice specifically highlights that rare but serious ailments can occur, which is why this demographic must be especially vigilant.
For healthy adults and older dogs with robust immune systems, the outcome might simply be a temporary bout of nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or fever. However, "healthy" does not mean "immune." Even if a person feels fine initially, they can still carry and spread the bacteria to others in the home before showing symptoms. This is why the risk is communal; one person’s mild reaction can become a household crisis if hygiene protocols are not strictly followed. The risk is further amplified for any family member who has direct contact with animal waste, as the bacteria is shed in feces and can persist on fur, paws, and household surfaces for extended periods.
- Young Children: Due to developing immune systems and hand-to-mouth behaviors.
- The Elderly: Due to naturally weakened immune responses and potential comorbidities.
- Immunocompromised Individuals: Including those with chronic diseases, HIV, or on immunosuppressive therapies.
- Pets in Multi-Animal Homes: Healthy carriers can infect other animals who may be more susceptible due to age or health status.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
Identifying whether your pet supplements are part of this specific recall requires careful attention to the details printed on the packaging. Because Fi Barking Labs Corp. distributed these products through multiple channels, including direct-to-consumer sales and major online retailers like Amazon and Chewy.com, the external packaging might vary slightly in design or branding layout. However, the critical safety information is consistently located on the product label itself. You do not need to rely on the outer box alone, as that may have been discarded; the definitive identification comes from the sticker or imprint found directly on the bottle or container.
Start by looking for the exact product name and weight. The recall specifically targets two items in the 180-gram size. First, check if the label reads Fi Calming supplement for Dogs. Second, verify if it is the Fi 8-in-1 Formula supplement for Dogs. It is crucial to confirm the weight is exactly 180 grams, as other sizes or formulas from the same brand are not mentioned in this specific safety notice. If you have a different size or a different formula type, it falls outside the scope of this particular alert.
The most important step is locating the Lot Number and the Universal Product Code (UPC). These codes are your primary verification tools. Do not guess; compare the numbers on your bottle against the specific list provided in the official recall notice. The recalled items are identified by two distinct combinations of lot numbers and UPCs:
- Fi Calming supplement for Dogs 180 g: Look for Lot Number 26118 with UPC 8 50064 80011 1.
- Fi 8-in-1 Formula supplement for Dogs 180 g: Look for Lot Number 26159 with UPC 8 50055 11168 4.
If your product matches either of these pairs exactly, it is part of the recall. If the lot number does not match these specific codes, or if the UPC is different, your product is not included in this batch. It is normal to feel anxious when dealing with potential safety issues, but precise identification prevents unnecessary worry. Keep the container sealed and out of reach of pets while you confirm these details. If you are unsure where to find the lot number on your specific packaging, it is typically printed on a white label near the bottom or side of the bottle. When in doubt, you can also contact Fi support directly at 1-888-434-3647 for assistance in verifying your product.
What to do — step by step
If you own any of the recalled Fi dog supplements, your immediate priority is to ensure the safety of both your pet and your household. Because the remedy for this specific recall does not include a return or replacement program, your actions focus entirely on safe disposal and preventing further exposure. Please follow these steps carefully.
- Stop using the product immediately. Even if your dog has already eaten some of the supplement without showing symptoms, do not give them any more. The recall is based on a potential Salmonella contamination in an ingredient supplied to the manufacturer. Stopping use right now prevents further ingestion of the contaminated substance.
- Secure the container. Take the recalled bottle or package and ensure the lid or seal is tightly closed. This step is crucial because Salmonella can persist on surfaces and within packaging materials. By sealing the container, you minimize the chance that bacteria could escape into your home environment or contaminate other items in your trash bin.
- Dispose of the product safely. Place the sealed container directly into your household trash. Do not attempt to return the product to Amazon, Chewy.com, or the manufacturer for a refund or exchange at this time, as no such program is stated in the recall notice. Throwing it away ensures that no one else—including other pets or wildlife—can come into contact with the contaminated supplement.
- Wash your hands thoroughly. After handling the container, wash your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. Salmonella poses a risk to humans not just through ingestion, but through contact with contaminated surfaces or waste. If you have cleaned any surfaces where the product was stored or opened, disinfect them as well. This is especially important if there are young children, elderly individuals, or anyone in your household with a weakened immune system.
- Contact Fi for questions. If you need clarification on which products are affected or have other concerns, reach out to the company directly. You can call 1-888-434-3647, available seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET, or email their support team at support@tryfi.com. They confirmed they are notifying affected customers and can provide additional guidance specific to your purchase.
- Monitor your pet and yourself. Keep an eye on your dog for signs of Salmonella infection, such as lethargy, diarrhea (especially if bloody), fever, vomiting, or decreased appetite. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian promptly. Similarly, monitor yourself for nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramping, or fever. If you develop these symptoms after handling the product, consult your healthcare provider and mention the potential exposure to Salmonella from the recalled supplement.
By following these steps, you protect your family from unnecessary health risks while the manufacturer investigates the source of the contamination. Remember, this recall is an abundance of caution, but taking these simple precautions ensures you are not caught off guard by potential illness.
Your refund, repair, or replacement options
When you encounter a recall for a product like pet supplements, the most immediate concern is often financial: will you get your money back? In this specific case involving Fi Barking Labs Corp., the official FDA recall notice does not explicitly outline a standard refund, repair, or replacement program. This can feel unsettling, but it is important to understand why the remedy is described as "not stated" in the primary hazard alert. The company’s primary directive is centered on safety and risk mitigation rather than customer service logistics at this stage. Because the potential contamination involves Salmonella, a serious bacterial pathogen, the priority is to remove the product from your home immediately to prevent illness in both pets and humans. The "remedy" provided by the manufacturer in this context is the instruction to cease use and dispose of the item safely, rather than a process for returning it for credit.
The absence of a stated refund mechanism does not mean you are without recourse, but it does mean you must take proactive steps if you believe you are owed compensation. Since the recall was issued out of an abundance of caution due to a supplier ingredient issue, and production has been suspended while the manufacturer investigates, the company may be managing its resources toward safety verification rather than processing refunds en masse. However, this does not negate your rights as a consumer. If you purchased these items recently, you should first check the policies of the retailer where you made the purchase. Both Amazon and Chewy.com are major online retailers that often have their own generous return or refund policies for recalled items, independent of the manufacturer's official recall instructions. Contacting their customer service teams directly may yield a faster resolution than waiting for Fi Barking Labs to update their internal systems.
If you need to contact the manufacturer directly, the recall notice provides specific channels for inquiries, though they are framed as support lines rather than dedicated refund desks. You can reach Fi by calling 1-888-434-3647, which is available seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern Time. Alternatively, you may email their support team at support@tryfi.com. When you contact them, it is crucial to be clear and polite but firm about your request for a refund or credit. Have your order confirmation number, the specific lot numbers (26118 for the Calming Supplement or 26159 for the 8-in-1 Formula), and your receipt ready. Explain that you are seeking financial restitution for a product that was deemed unsafe. While the company may not have a pre-written script for refunds yet, documenting your contact attempts is important if you need to escalate the issue later with your credit card company or consumer protection agency.
It is also worth noting that because the remedy involves disposing of the product in the trash, you should not attempt to send the contaminated supplements back through standard mail or return shipping services. The risk of cross-contamination during transit outweighs any potential financial recovery from the manufacturer directly. Instead, view the cost of the product as a necessary expense for ensuring the health and safety of your household. If the retailer refuses a refund and the manufacturer is unresponsive, you may consider disputing the charge with your bank or credit card issuer under "goods not received as described" or "product safety issue," providing them with the FDA recall details as evidence. For now, focus on safe disposal and reaching out to your point of sale for immediate assistance.
What can happen if you ignore it
When a recall notice cites the potential for Salmonella contamination, the stakes are rarely just about an inconvenient product return. Ignoring this warning and continuing to use the affected Fi supplements allows a biological hazard to remain in your home environment, creating a chain of exposure that can affect both your pets and your family. The core danger lies in the fact that Salmonella is a robust bacteria capable of surviving in dry environments for extended periods. If the supplement powder or soft chews are contaminated, they do not merely pose a risk at the moment of ingestion; they become an active source of pathogens that can spread to surfaces, packaging, and hands long after the product has been opened.
For your dog, continuing to feed them these products means knowingly exposing their digestive system to a pathogen that causes salmonellosis. While healthy adult dogs may sometimes fight off mild infections, the consequences can range from mild gastrointestinal upset to severe, life-threatening illness. Symptoms often escalate quickly, starting with lethargy and loss of appetite but rapidly progressing to high fever, vomiting, and bloody diarrhea. This level of dehydration and systemic infection can be particularly dangerous for puppies, senior dogs, or any pet with a compromised immune system. Even if your dog appears resilient, they can become asymptomatic carriers, meaning they harbor the bacteria in their gut and shed it in their waste without showing obvious signs of sickness themselves.
The risk to humans is equally serious and often underestimated because we assume animal illnesses do not cross over to people. However, Salmonella is a zoonotic disease, meaning it easily transfers from animals to humans. If your pet ingests the contaminated supplement, the bacteria will be present in their feces for weeks after they stop eating the product. Every time you clean up that waste, touch the dog’s mouth, or handle surfaces where the animal has walked, you risk transferring the bacteria to yourself. Healthy adults might experience nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramping, and fever. However, for young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems, the consequences can be far more severe. In rare but serious cases, untreated or delayed treatment of Salmonella infection can lead to the bacteria entering the bloodstream and causing arterial infections, endocarditis (infection of the heart lining), or arthritis that requires long-term management.
Furthermore, ignoring the recall means missing the window for early intervention. If you notice symptoms in your pet or yourself after continued exposure, waiting until the illness is severe before contacting a healthcare provider or veterinarian can complicate treatment and prolong recovery. By disregarding the warning, you are not just risking a minor stomach bug; you are allowing a preventable biological hazard to establish itself in your household, turning your home into a reservoir for an infection that could spread to other family members, guests, or even other pets who visit. The consequences of inaction are not theoretical—they are documented medical realities that turn a simple supplement bottle into a serious public health concern.