Published 12 hours ago • loading... • Updated 6 hours ago

Government issues warning to dog and cat owners over flea and tick treatments

The Veterinary Medicines Directorate launched a national awareness campaign today warning that flea and tick treatments are polluting British waterways. The Environment Agency detected chemicals in rivers at levels threatening aquatic insects like mayflies and dragonflies.
Research by the VMD identified that treatment compounds enter water sources when pets swim too soon after application or through wastewater. Two chemicals, fipronil and imidacloprid, harm aquatic insects in rivers and streams.
The campaign urges pet owners to follow three simple steps: Plan, Apply, and Protect. Owners should avoid swimming for at least 4 days after application and bin used pipettes instead of rinsing them down sinks.
Abigail Seager, Chief Executive Officer of the VMD, said, "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." The VMD is collaborating with veterinary and retail sectors.
Professor Jason Weeks, chair of the Environment Group, said the initiative supports the government's Pharmaceuticals in the Environment roadmap. Gwyn Jones of RUMA Companion Animal and Equine welcomed the campaign, emphasizing responsible parasiticide use.

Insights by Ground AI