The devastating consequences of H5N1-contaminated raw milk have reached the homes of unsuspecting pet owners in Southern California. One man, Joseph Journell, has decided to take legal action against Raw Farm LLC, the Fresno-based dairy company behind the recalled milk, after the virus claimed the lives of two of his beloved cats and left a third fighting for its life.
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The Hidden Danger: Raw Milk and H5N1 Bird Flu
Since early December 2023, at least 11 house cats across California have succumbed to the deadly effects of consuming raw milk contaminated with H5N1, a highly pathogenic bird flu virus. The outbreak, linked to Raw Farm’s products, has also impacted hundreds of other domestic and wild cats since the virus arrived in North America in 2021.
H5N1’s effects on cats, who are particularly sensitive to the virus, include:
- Severe gastrointestinal distress
- Fever and pancreatitis
- Organ failure and death
The California Department of Food and Agriculture suspended sales of Raw Farm’s raw milk on November 29, 2023, after detecting the virus in multiple product samples. However, by then, the damage had already been done for many pets, including Journell’s cherished companions.
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Joseph Journell’s Heartbreaking Loss
Journell, a San Bernardino resident and devoted cat owner, had been a regular consumer of raw milk for its purported health benefits. He began sharing it with his cats last year, particularly his 14-year-old feline, Alexander, who had been struggling with weight loss.
The milk seemed to work wonders initially, helping Alexander gain weight and thrive. However, after purchasing two gallons of raw milk from a health food store on November 20, everything changed.
- Alexander’s Rapid Decline:
After drinking the milk, Alexander became lethargic and was diagnosed with pancreatitis. Despite emergency treatment, he succumbed to heart failure on Thanksgiving Day. - Tuxedo’s Sudden Death:
A week later, Tuxedo, another of Journell’s cats, began vomiting violently. On the way to the vet, he experienced convulsions and tragically passed away in Journell’s arms. - Big Boy’s Fight for Survival:
The third affected cat, Big Boy, developed a fever but managed to recover after specialized treatment in Ontario, thanks to a timely diagnosis and intervention.
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Legal Action Against Raw Farm LLC
In the wake of these losses, Journell has sought restitution from Raw Farm LLC. His attorneys sent a letter to Mark McAfee, the company’s owner, demanding reimbursement for:
- Veterinary bills
- Lost wages
- Other out-of-pocket expenses
The lawsuit highlights Raw Farm’s alleged failure to protect consumers and pets from H5N1 contamination. Journell’s case is part of a broader conversation about the dangers of raw milk consumption and its risks to both humans and animals.
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A Growing Public Health Concern
Since March 2024, when H5N1 was first identified in dairy cows, health officials have flagged dead barn cats as a sentinel warning sign of contamination. Despite a voluntary recall of Raw Farm’s products, experts believe the 11 reported cat deaths vastly underrepresent the true toll, as many pet owners remain unaware of the connection between raw milk and the virus.
A Call for Awareness and Accountability
Journell’s story serves as a cautionary tale about the hidden dangers of raw milk consumption and the devastating impact of H5N1. As he fights for justice, his case raises critical questions about food safety, consumer awareness, and corporate accountability in preventing such tragedies.
For now, pet owners are urged to avoid raw milk products and consult their veterinarians immediately if their animals exhibit any unusual symptoms.
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