Although we hear lots about raw food diets, cooked or processed commercial pet foods also need to be prepared and stored properly.

First, make sure that bags and cans of food are undamaged when you buy them. Then store dry food in an airtight container in a dry area kept lower than 80 degrees. Keep the original bag with all the manufacturing data. Refrigerate moist food and discard any that’s left out for more than a couple of hours.

Use a dedicated utensil — and never an unwashed pet food bowl — as a scoop. Make it a habit to wash pet food, water bowls, utensils and mats frequently in warm, soapy water. Also get used to washing your hands with soap for at least 20 seconds after handling any pet food and keep young tots away from all animal food.