CALLING ALL RESPONSIBLE PET OWNERS!
COULD YOU DO SOMETHING TO PROTECT WILDLIFE ON AYLESTONE MEADOWS?
HOW FLEA TREATMENTS ARE HARMING OUR ENVIRONMENT
Aylestone Meadows is a great place to walk dogs. It’s also a great place to see wildlife. This is a plea for all animal owners not to use ‘spot’ flea treatments which are applied monthly on the back of the animal’s neck, because it’s becoming increasingly clear that these substances are killing insects and birds.
Research by University of Sussex and Imperial college London has shown that commonly used flea and tick treatments prescribed by vets and bought in pet shops contain the extremely potent neurotoxic pesticide Fipronil and the neonicotinoid Imidacloprid (which is banned for agricultural use). The substances remain in the animal’s fur for at least 28 days and also contaminate the user’s hands. The toxins subsequently enter the environment, including waterways, partly from animal fur which is shed on walks or by out-door grooming. The research suggests that songbird chicks are being killed by high levels of pesticides in pet fur which the adult birds use to line their nests. A study of blue tit nests found that 100% of those surveyed contained neonicotinoids. Scientists from the University of Sussex are calling for the government to urgently reassess the environmental risk of these pesticides and consider restricting their use in flea control products.
WHAT ALTERNATIVES ARE AVAILABLE?
There are herbal treatments available, but there is currently insufficient research to prove their effectiveness. Oral treatments, bought from the vet or in the pet shop are effective and less damaging. There is still contamination in dog poo and urine but to a lesser extent.
HERE’S WHAT WE CAN DO:
- Cease monthly dog and cat flea treatments and only treat known infestations.
- Watch out for flea infestations (use a ‘nit’ comb) and treat as soon as fleas are identified.
- Use an oral flea treatment or discuss other alternatives with the vet.
- Always pick up dog poo.
- Don’t groom your dog outdoors if its fur may be contaminated.
Most dog owners love Aylestone Meadows for the wonderful wildlife and would not wish to be contributing to its decline. It’s not a total answer but the above actions will help save the lives of the birds and insects we love.
FURTHER READING