Using Flea-Control Products? Read the Label First!
Summertime…and the living is not so easy for our four-legged friends.
Statistics compiled by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC)
show that June, July and August are the most dangerous months of the
year for companion animals. According to 2003 data, the center
received approximately 8,800 calls in July--and more than 3,100 of
these involved animals exposed to pesticides such as flea-control
products.
"The misuse of flea and tick products is extremely harmful and can
even be deadly to our companion animals," says APCC senior vice
president Dr. Steven Hansen. "By taking the time to read a product
label carefully, pet owners could save their animal's life."
Please check out the following tips for keeping your pets safe and
pest-free:
* ALWAYS read all instructions on the label before using any flea-
control product on your pet.
* Never use insecticide on very young, pregnant, debilitated or
elderly animals without first consulting your veterinarian.
* If you're using a fogger or home-premise spray, remove all pets--
along with their food and water bowls--from the area for the period
specified on the container. Open windows and use fans to air out your
home, and let the product dry completely before allowing your animals
to return. Strong fumes can irritate your pet's eyes and upper
respiratory system.
* Is there a bird in the family flock? Companion avians are more
sensitive to fumes and usually require more time than other species
before they can safely return to a treated area. Contact your
veterinary health professional for advice on product usage around
birds.
* Take care when using sprays, shampoos or mousse containing
pesticides near your pet's eyes and ears.
* Observe your pet closely after using flea-control products; report
any unusual behavior to your veterinarian.
* As an alternative to using flea products directly on a pet, why not
use a flea comb? This is a great option for pets who enjoy being
groomed but dislike baths or the application of a spray.
For more information on keeping Fluffy and Fido flea-free this summer-
-and what you can do to prevent your pet from being poisoned--visit
APCC online at http://www.aspca.org/site/PageServer?pagename=apcc.
Posted on SHARE Yahoo group Aug 5, 2004