The EPA Enforces Stricter Labeling on Pet Flea and Tick Product Manufacturers

Amid concerns from pet owners whose animals died after being treated with flea and tick products, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is now requiring stricter labeling procedures from companies Merck & Co., Bayer AG and Pfizer Inc, the makers of products Frontline Top Spot for Dogs, Promeris Canine Flea Control and Enforcer Flea Drops for Cats.  Linked to 44,000 reports in 2008 alone, the products continue to cause pet mortality rates to rise rapidly.

A website called BioSpotVictims.org was created to inform the public about potential side effects of using flea and tick treatments.  Similar websites have popped up around the net as pets become ill and die from over-the-counter products.

Better labeling will prevent owners from giving incorrect dosages or the wrong types of treatment to their dogs and cats.  Dosages depend on the weight of the animal but very few people know that.  With the help of the EPA, pet owners can better understand the dangers involved with using pesticides to treat their pet's flea or tick problem.

Opie and Dixie knows the importance of using all-natural products on your pets.  That is why we offer vitamins, supplements, and treatments that are free from harsh chemicals and additives.  We also have a whole section of our website dedicated to educating our customers about Health and Wellness matters.   Covering topics like Herbs, Homeopathy, and Massage, the site was designed to present healthy alternatives to pet owners.

For Do-It-Yourself flea and tick remedies and other useful advice and recipes, pick up a copy of Eco Dog by Corbett Marshall and Jim Deskevich or visit Recipe Goldmine for inspiration.  A number of easy-to-make health remedy recipes are available to the public at no cost via the web.  In addition to saving you money, the all-natural alternatives prevent deadly side effects from compromising the health and well-being of your pets.