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New report calls to ban off the shelf and unchecked online sales of pet flea and tick treatments

05 Aug 2026

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A new report from the House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee is calling for a ban on ‘off the shelf and unchecked online sales’ of pet parasiticides to treat flea and ticks amid growing concerns about their impact on the environment.

New report calls to ban off the shelf and unchecked online sales of pet flea and tick treatments   Image

ճǰ,,publishedtoday,comesafter ourSeniorVicePresidentLizMullineauxgave evidence to the committeehighlighting theneedfor a moreconsideredrisk-based approachto the useof smallanimalparasiticidesandtheneed for moreresearchinto thearea.

Whilst we know thatparasiticides are vital tools in preventing,treatingand protectingthe health and welfare of people and animals,there’sincreasing evidence some of these products are damaging to the environment.

Manyof you are concerned about this issue too:93.5% ofyou who responded to ourSpring 2025Voice of the Veterinary Professionsurveywere concerned about the environmental impact of small animal parasiticides, 70% agreed any blanket prophylaxis was “inappropriate” and 80% agreed “there should be a lot more restrictions on the sale of small animal parasiticides”.

It’spositive to see this report’s recommendations, which parallel many ofourown:we’velong called for more research and for a risk-based approach to be takenashighlighted inthe oralevidencesession byLiz.We also support calls for a ban on over-the-counter sales –it’simportant pet owners have access to professional, tailored, veterinary advice on how to use these treatments appropriately,responsiblyand safely whenpurchasingthese products.

To help withconversations with yourclients on this issue,wehave a range ofresources,includinga leaflet,postersand a slideshow,which can bedownloadedanddisplayedinyourpractice waiting rooms.

Youcan find ourfull consultation response here:Ȥҹapp’s written evidence to the House of Lords Select committee for Environment and Climate Change - Pet parasite medication inquiry

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