Spot-On Flea, Tick Meds Investigated

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is investigating the pesticides used in pet flea and tick control medications after receiving reports about dangerous side effects.

According to the agencies Web site, the investigation mainly includes spot-on pesticide products, which are generally sold in tubes or vials and are usually applied between a pet’s shoulders.

While the EPA said these products can be useful for treating and protecting people and their pets from fleas and ticks that can transmit disease, the agency now recommends precaution. People should watch their pets closely for any adverse reactions.

Pet owners across the country have reported side effects including skin irritation, seizures and death, the EPA Web site states.

One North Texas pet owner said her four dogs got serious chemical burns from Sentry Pro XFC even though she followed the directions on the back of the box.

Bertha Brisneo said three of her dogs have since recovered, but her pug Winston is still sick.

"Winston was a chubby little pug and he's losing weight. He's getting thin and we're concerned because we have to hand feed him. And when he does eat he vomits," Brisneo said.

Winston's vet Vanessa Cowart said not all flea products are for every animal, especiallly if the animal has underlying health problems.

"Any of these products, even the better known brands, have been known to sometimes cause local reactions," Cowart said.

In a statement to FOX 4, Sentry Pro XFC writes, "We are very sorry to hear about Bertha's dogs. Though we do not want to speculate what happened, it is important to know that just as with humans, there will always be some pets that cannot and should not use a pesticide because they are sensitive or allergic to certain chemicals. It is important to remember that flea and tick control products are pesticides and each dose is formulated for specific weight classes."

A list of more than 200 brands of spot-on pesticides included in the investigation is available at http://www.epa.gov/opp00001/health/prodname-reg.pdf .

The EPA said it expects to wrap up its investigation in October.