The UK government has issued a risk alert to all dog and cat owners regarding the use of flea and tick treatments. The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) has expressed concerns that improper application of these products may be leading to contamination of waterways, harming aquatic insects such as mayflies and dragonflies.
Environmental Concerns
The Environment Agency detected two common ingredients from flea and tick treatments in UK waterways at levels harmful to aquatic life. While the VMD acknowledges these products are essential for pet health, it emphasizes that owners must follow instructions carefully to minimize environmental impact.
How Contamination Occurs
Research indicates that treatment substances enter waterways when pets swim in natural bodies of water too soon after treatment or through wastewater when products are applied incorrectly. The VMD urges owners to adopt safer practices.
Three Steps for Safe Use
The government's Be Spot On campaign provides guidance. The VMD recommends the following steps:
Plan
- Wash your pet in the days before applying the medicine, not afterwards.
- Apply the medicine at a time when you will not be in close contact, such as at night or before work.
Apply
- Read and follow the instructions on your chosen product carefully.
- Part your pet's fur until you see the skin, then apply the product directly to the skin, not the fur.
Protect
- Avoid touching the application site until it is dry.
- Do not let your pet swim for at least four days after application, and limit swimming and washing in the following weeks.
- Do not rinse or recycle used pipettes. Dispose of unused or expired medicine properly; contact your medical supplier for details.
- If your pet sheds fur after treatment, bin it rather than leaving it out for nesting birds.
Official Statement
Abigail Seager, Chief Executive Officer of the VMD, said: "Flea and tick spot-ons are an important way to protect both human and animal health, but these substances are reaching our waterways. Today we are giving people the practical information they need to get the most out of their pet's treatment while helping protect our waterways. We are proud to be working with partners across the veterinary and retail sectors to spread that message as widely as possible."
