Tell the EPA to protect kids from dangerous pesticides in pet flea products

An important message from www.greenpaws.org – a chance to use your voice!

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Tell the EPA to protect kids from dangerous pesticides in pet flea products

Fleas and ticks are a nuisance, and they can even be a health hazard. Even though we have many available options for controlling fleas and ticks without resorting to dangerous chemicals, the Environmental Protection Agency still allows some harmful pesticides to be used in flea control products.

Flea collars are a particular problem because some of the most dangerous pesticides on the market are found in these products. The collars are designed to gradually release a pesticide residue onto the fur of a dog or cat, which can pose a risk to pet owners, particularly children. Two especially dangerous flea collar pesticides, tetrachlorvinphos and propoxur, remain on the market based on a flawed assessment of their risks; NRDC’s new scientific analysis shows that the EPA’s decision to leave these products on the market may create a significant health risk to young children.

Tetrachlorvinphos and propoxur are toxic to the nervous system and can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, wheezing, sweating and tearing eyes. Severe poisoning can cause muscle twitching, seizures, respiratory paralysis and even death. Both chemicals are also listed by EPA as likely to cause cancer. Young children are particularly susceptible to these pesticides’ effects because their nervous system and brain are still developing, and their ability to metabolize these chemicals is weaker than that of adults. In addition, kids often put their hands in their mouths after petting an animal, and so are more likely to ingest the hazardous residues.

The EPA is accepting public comments through June 6th on whether to ban propoxur in pet products.

What to do:
Send a message, before the June 6th comment deadline, urging the EPA to protect children by banning these dangerous and unnecessary chemicals in flea collars and other pet products.

Go here to send your message – (pretyped for your signature) http://www.nrdconline.org/campaign/nrdcaction_042109_b_gp

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