Wednesday, June 3, 2009

EPA Flea and Tick Product Watch

If you have heard any alerts about problems with flea and tick products lately in the news...please check out this EPA link:


www.epa.gov/pesticides/health/flea-tick-control.html

Please know that all veterinarians recommend flea and tick products carefully for each individual pet and parasite situation. Careless use of these products on sick, neonatal or geriatric pets that are debilitated is not recommended. If you use flea and tick products based on the recommendations of your veterinarian, they should be available for any adverse reactions or problems you may have. You do not have this accountability with over the counter products sold at farm stores or grocery stores.

If you choose to use over the counter products, please read label directions and do not use them on sick or debilitated or underweight pets and follow any age and species recommendations. Also keep the package and bring your pet and the package to the vet if your pet experiences any adverse reactions. Any adverse reactions should be reported to the company that makes the product.

Reactions can include:


skin irritation
seizures and/or death

The EPA monitors and regulates any and all pesticides including the ones manufactured for pet flea and tick control. Please educate yourself and use caution with any flea and tick product.
Cats can be particularly sensitive to these products, especially those containing permethrins or pyrethrins.