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Vets Respond To Parliamentary Report Calling For Ban On Off The Shelf And Unchecked Online Sales Of Pet And Tick Flea Treatments Amid Environmental Concerns
1 week ago 
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The British Veterinary Association (BVA), which represents 19,000 UK vets, has responded to a new report calling for a ban of ‘off the shelf and unchecked online sales’ of pet parasiticides to treat flea and ticks, by the House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee in light of increasing evidence showing these medicines are damaging the environment.
The new report, “Paws for Concern: Pets, Parasites and Pollution”, published today, recommends a ban on over-the-counter sales of pet parasiticides like flea and tick treatments and argues that pet owners should receive a thorough assessment of the needs of their pets and advice about the potential health and environmental risks of pet parasiticides before using them.
British Veterinary Association Senior Vice President Dr Elizabeth Mullineaux, who gave oral evidence to the House of Lords committee ahead of publishing this report, said: “Parasiticides, like flea treatments, are vital tools in preventing, treating and protecting people and animals from disease and related welfare issues. However, there’s increasing evidence some of these products are damaging to the environment. It’s positive to see this report’s recommendations, which parallel many of BVA's own: we’ve long called for more research and for a risk-based approach to be taken when using these treatments. We also support calls for a ban on over-the-counter sales – it’s important pet owners have access to professional, tailored, veterinary advice on how to use these treatments appropriately, responsibly and safely when purchasing these products.”
Find BVA’s full consultation response here: BVA’s written evidence to the House of Lords Select committee for Environment and Climate Change - Pet parasite medication inquiry
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