Federal officials have sent inspectors to China to investigate the manufacturing plants that produce the chicken-jerky treats believed to be linked to the illness and deaths in hundreds of dogs in the United States, two U.S. lawmakers have told MSNBC.com.

At least 600 dogs nationwide have reportedly became ill or died after eating chicken-jerky treats made in China. According to the FDA, in many cases the dogs developed kidney failure, liver disease or Fanconi syndrome.

Three brands of treats have been implicated: Waggin' Train and Canyon Creek Ranch jerky or tenders, produced by Nestle Purina PetCare, and Milo's Kitchen Home-style Dog Treats, manufactured by Del Monte.

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