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December 2009
I bought bio spot for my I year old poodle and now he has all kinds of problems. He pees for no reason in my house and vomits a lot up and its red like blood and he also
is running a temp. This dog in my life, what can I do?
Edward 12/2/09
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(The following message was posted on HartzVictims.org by Nicole on 12/3/09)
Sergeant’s Gold Squeeze-On for Cats killed my 2yr old cat 11.30.2009
I have a mission & a purpose, because I have a voice, Unlike my cat and the thousands of other animals that have been injured and or killed by this product and numerous other ones just like it. Just Like many other trusting consumers out there I trusted the fact that this OTC medicine designed to prevent treat and help my cat would indeed do that, but instead the unthinkable happened, I was shocked angry sad a million emotions wrapped into one, but mainly i was just angry…Angry that i never heard of this type of thing happening, angry that this was sold to me by a popular “trusting” retailer, angry that my cat suffered a terrible death, angry that I never got to say goodbye, Angry that my innocent sweet loving cats young life was cut short, and most of all angry with myself that i was the reason her life was cut short or at least thats how i felt at the time and many of you that have been through this same situation probably understand exactly what i mean by that its completely disheartening. I’m not going to go into all the details of her death but i will say this I KNOW for a fact this medicine is what caused her death I actually have it in writing from the Veterinarian @ the after hours emergency clinic i took her to it states the following; diagnosis is toxicity from OTC flea medicine in purple tube and anaphylactic shock. I have made a consumer report, notified sergeants gold company & legally they will have to report the incident to EPA, wrote letter to NRDC…and thats just the beginning i want to start a petition and get involved with a civil suit if anyone can please provide me more information regarding anything i can do to put a stop to this or any suits that are currently going on please do !! thanks ~nicole st.charles
IN LOVING MEMORY OF MY BEAUTIFUL CAT “KITTY”
Nicole 12/3/09
(Below are several messages posted on HartzVictims.org in response to Nicole's
message)
On Dec. 5th My husband put Sergeants Gold squeeze-on on our 3 yr old cat Lisa. Lisa woke me up around 7 am drooling and shaking. We were terrified. I called the emergency vet and we did not have enough for initial visit ($110.00). The vet tech said by the time the appointment was over we may have to spend upwards of 300.00+, not to mention that Lisa might not live through the visit. So I called the number on the back of the box, as well as Sergeants. The Rep. (Ryan) that answered the phone said that there is nothing we could do. The rep (Sarah) from Sergeants had the balls to claim that WE couldn’t blame Sergeants because WE did not know for sure that their product caused her to get sick.
After the call I googled Sergeants and I found this site. Thank God. Your site saved Lisa’s life. I cannot thank God enough for her recovery. I did what others did on this site. My husband bathed her twice with Dawn, then I did my best to force feed her benedryl. Which was terrifying because she could not swallow. She just kept drooling.
Just a side note about Lisa. She is my daughter’s sole companion. She was a gift to her on 5th birthday. We walked into a house 3 yrs ago that was living nightmare for animals. There was at least a 50 cats, and none of them used a box. Well, I wanted to leave and call the ASPCA (I did call when we left), when my daughter picked up Lisa. She was severely neglected and very underweight. We were told she was 6 wks. She was really 3 wks. I brought her home not thinking she would make it through the night. But we nursed her back to a health. She has lived through starvation, kennel cough, and RSV.
Today she almost died from a flea treatment I bought at Wal Mart!!!! The warning on my box suggested a slight reaction NOT DEATH!!! I am irate. I want this stuff removed from the shelves. I am shocked, and disgusted. I will lend my name to any lawsuit that removes this neurotoxin from the market.
For a corporation, these are just animals…but for me and my family Lisa is a part of our home. When my daughter was heart broken over not having a sibling , we brought Lisa into our lives. She has been more then a companion, she is a sweet, innocent creature who has given so much more then we have given her. I hope she will forgive us for inflicting this horror on her.
***Her nightmare started at 9 pm last night, it has now been 24 hrs later. She is acting like her old self…after 3 baths and half a benedryl. She still has to see the vet.
P.S. Frontline is available online in single doses for alot less then the vet, and you can now buy pet insurance for low rates.
I will never buy any Sergeants products again.
Thank you for the VITAL, LIFE SAVING INFORMATION. You saved our cat.
The Swift Family,
David, Charity, Myranda Mae, & Lisa 12/6/09
I am so sorry for your loss of your beloved “Kitty”, that is my cat’s name too : ). I was actually about to put this product on both of my cats (i had already bought it) when something told me to do a little research first. Thank goodness I did. I am shocked that this is causing so many problems and it’s still on the shelf at stores. I know nothing can make it better when you lose a pet, they are our babies too, but as far as I am concerned, you just saved both of my cat’s lives. So from myself, my family, and my cats, thank you for sharing this story during such a difficult time for you.
Jill, Kiddi & Mojo 12/7/09
thanku all for the comments… especially jill thats very sweet of you im glad i helped out u and ur cat by posting kittys story thats all i really wanted to do by posting this just make people aware of this horrible issue, because honestly i had non of this type of information until after kitty died but on a lighter note everyone used to always laugh @me for naming my cat kitty thats funny that u named ur cat that too! it kind of just came out of habit for me, thats what i always called her from day one. Im just trying to remember all the good memories we had together and how at least she’s no longer suffering like she was after that “medicine” was put on her ! keep letting everyone know what horrible stuff this is and hopefully we will all make a big difference one day soon
love~nicole 12/7/09
I used Hartz on my dog and he completly flipped out and started to act very strange. I had to take him to Emergency Dog care and they told me that the stuff I used is a pesticide that attacks the nervous system. I never would of used this stuff if I had known that. My dog still hasn’t pulled out of it. He isn’t the same. Doesn’t seem happy. Won’t even chase his favorite ball. I’m very mad and want to do something. This stuff shouldn’t be sold. What can I do? Will my dog pull out of this? E-mail me. I want to sue or do whatever to help get rid of this stuff.
Mark 12/9/09
Dear Mark,
Thank you for bringing your story forward. Hartz Mountain has a terrible safety record over the years. Their products containing phenothrin–a pesticide neurotoxin–have accounted for a significant number of the adverse incidents reported to the EPA over the years. Their appalling safety record goes back to the ’80’s and ’90’s with their product, Blockade, which was pulled from the market because of an unacceptable number of animal injuries and deaths. Hartz later attempted to re-introduce Blockade and once again they were forced to withdraw it because of a terribly high number of adverse incidents. They have been forced by the EPA to make numerous labeling revisions and they have been cited and fined for not promptly and accurately reporting adverse incidents to the EPA. Their cat and kitten products were terminated in 2006 when the EPA issued a Cancellation Order (2005) against Hartz because of their deplorable safety record.
You have the opportunity to do something that Hartz, Sergeant’s, BioSpot and the others DO NOT want you to do: Please take the time to report your incident to the National Pesticide Information Center (NPIC). This organization works with the EPA to compile the database of incidents and statistics that will be analyzed and used as a basis for corrective action. The NPIC can be reached at 1-800-858-7378. They are very professional, courteous and efficient. This is a critical step in the public forcing the EPA–one of the most lax oversight agencies in the federal government–to do the right thing and get these neuro-toxin pesticide ingredients out of the marketplace. Also, please call Hartz Mountain or the other appropriate manufacturer and report this incident to them. They WILL NOT be happy to hear from you, but they–-like all the manufacturers–-have an obligation under federal law to forward your report to the EPA. As I mentioned, Hartz Mountain has been cited and fined for not properly and promptly reporting these incidents in the past. Hartz’s telephone number is 1-800-275-1414. Put the pressure on Hartz by giving them the details and FORCING them to report to the EPA. Also, they should be asked to reimburse your medical expenses. Don’t take no for an answer. Press them on this. Thank you again; so very sorry for what has happened. It’s reprehensible that Hartz, BioSpot, Sergeant’s and others continue to injure and kill thousands of pets–-it’s absolutely unacceptable. We should all do whatever we can to prevent this from happening to others. Communications to the proper regulatory agencies, the manufacturers, NPIC, the media and politicians are critical steps. All the best.
Matt 12/9/09
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I recently noticed that every time I bring out the biospot to put on my dog Gobi he runs away. I just thought he didn't like how it felt so I forced it on him. I used to use Frontline but in an effort to save money I started with this product. After applying it he will start to pace and walk around the house back and forth. Then he will just find a corner and lay down. I started using it over the summer and decided that I would check out the website after his behavior continued after each use. I will never use or recommend this product again.
-Run like an animal 12/6/09
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I woke-up Dec.3 to a screaching noise from my cat that I have never heard before and found her on the floor. Not knowing what was wrong with her, after trying to console her, and trying to understand whats wrong, it appeared after watching her reactions that she was having a seizure, within a minute or two. She died. The night before, her eyes were dark but, she seemed fine, her behavior was normal. Never noticed any previous indications or symptoms. The only treatment I have ever given her was Frontline every mth for over 2/12 yrs. After reading the testimonies and experiences of others, I am convinced that the flea control is what caused her death. Its the only thing she's ever been treated with. Two yrs ago our 8 yr old Maltest, due to an undiagnosed skin condition, he was loosing his hair all over and a smell of death that I could not bath
away. Took him to the Vet twice with-in a couple of mths trying everything recommended to no avail. Couldn't watch him suffer any longer, this had been going
on over a yr, he would scratch and bite his own back and cause it to bleed. Had to
put him to sleep.
He also only got Frontline treatments every mth. Sure makes ya think, I will never give any animal another flea treatment, unless its a natural source. We use these flea treatments with blind faith, now with this experience, I have NO faith in any of the
advertised treatments. Thank you so much for this site, it has been an EYE OPENER.
Tom 12/6/09
P.S We make decisions without clear visions.
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Just to let you know that my dog Lupa, a greater swiss mountaindog, also had a
"grand mal" after the treatment with Exil Spot-on, containing permethrin as well...
There's no epilepsy in her bloodlines, and she never had another seizure since...
Kind regards,
Marta 12/9/9
The Netherlands
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(Below is email that was sent to Jan from Kimberly Nesci at the EPA on 12/11/09
concerning the EPA's ongoing investigation of spot-on products for pets)
Dear Jan,
Hi, and it's nice to hear from you. I know that I also owe you a response to your response to my message from mid-November. With regards to the review document, we have not been able to achieve the originally scheduled release by Fall of 2009. We prepared some language to explain that delay to the press, so I've pasted that language below for you as well. We'll also be posting a longer explanation on the website shortly.
However, I do want to let you know that we're very actively working on this issue, and I'll be briefing my management on a mitigation proposal next Thursday. As part of that, we will be discussing how best to obtain public input, which I know is one of your most immediate concerns. If you would like me to give you a call next week, please let me know and I'd be happy to do so (or feel free to call me directly).
"EPA has been evaluating the data submitted on adverse incidents associated with the spot-on flea and tick pet products and is nearing completion of its review. Due to the large amount of data and the complex technical issues associated with the review of the data, our report is not ready for public release. We anticipate publically releasing the document in early 2010. Updated information will be available at:
when the report is released."
Very best regards,
Kimberly
Kimberly Nesci, Product Manager 11
Insecticide Branch
Registration Division (7505P)
Office of Pesticide Programs
(703) 308-8059
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(Below is email that I sent to Kimberly Nesci at the EPA on 12/14/09)
Dear Ms. Nesci,
Thank you for sending me a copy of your response to Jan. I am glad to hear that the results of your investigation into spot-on products for pets will be released in early
2010 -- prior to the start of flea and tick season. However, I am very sorry to hear
that you have drafted a risk mitigation proposal prior to seeking public input on this issue.
I believe that public input is critical to understanding the scope of the problem and arriving at an effective solution. For example, here is a message that was posted by someone whose cat died earlier this month after using a spot-on product made by
Sergeant's Pet Care:
Excerpt:
"Sergeant’s Gold Squeeze-On for Cats killed my 2yr old cat 11.30.2009"
"I have a mission & a purpose, because I have a voice, Unlike my cat and the thousands of other animals that have been injured and or killed by this product and numerous other ones just like it. Just Like many other trusting consumers out there I trusted the fact that this OTC medicine designed to prevent treat and help my cat
would indeed do that, but instead the unthinkable happened, I was shocked angry
sad a million emotions wrapped into one, but mainly i was just angry…Angry that i
never heard of this type of thing happening, angry that this was sold to me by a
popular “trusting” retailer, angry that my cat suffered a terrible death, angry that I
never got to say goodbye, Angry that my innocent sweet loving cats young life was
cut short, and most of all angry with myself that i was the reason her life was cut short
or at least thats how i felt at the time and many of you that have been through this same situation probably understand exactly what i mean by that its completely disheartening. I’m not going to go into all the details of her death but i will say this I KNOW for a fact this medicine is what caused her death I actually have it in writing from the Veterinarian @ the after hours emergency clinic i took her to it states the following; diagnosis is toxicity from OTC flea medicine in purple tube and anaphylactic shock. I have made a consumer report, notified sergeants gold company & legally they will have to report the incident to EPA, wrote letter to NRDC…and thats just the beginning i want to start a petition and get involved with a civil suit if anyone can please provide me more information regarding anything i can do to put a stop to this or any suits that are currently going on please do !! thanks ~nicole st.charles"
"IN LOVING MEMORY OF MY BEAUTIFUL CAT “KITTY”
Here is one of the messages that was posted in response to it:
"On Dec. 5th My husband put Sergeants Gold squeeze-on on our 3 yr old cat Lisa.
Lisa woke me up around 7 am drooling and shaking. We were terrified. I called the emergency vet and we did not have enough for initial visit ($110.00). The vet tech said by the time the appointment was over we may have to spend upwards of 300.00+, not to mention that Lisa might not live through the visit. So I called the number on the back of the box, as well as Sergeants. The Rep. (Ryan) that answered the phone said that there is nothing we could do. The rep (Sarah) from Sergeants had the balls to claim that WE couldn’t blame Sergeants because WE did not know for sure that their product caused her to get sick."
"After the call I googled Sergeants and I found this site. Thank God. Your site saved Lisa’s life. I cannot thank God enough for her recovery. I did what others did on this site. My husband bathed her twice with Dawn, then I did my best to force feed her benedryl.
Which was terrifying because she could not swallow. She just kept drooling."
"Just a side note about Lisa. She is my daughter’s sole companion. She was a gift to her on 5th birthday. We walked into a house 3 yrs ago that was living nightmare for animals. There was at least a 50 cats, and none of them used a box. Well, I wanted to leave and call the ASPCA (I did call when we left), when my daughter picked up Lisa. She was severely neglected and very underweight. We were told she was 6 wks. She was really 3 wks. I brought her home not thinking she would make it through the night.
But we nursed her back to a health. She has lived through starvation, kennel cough,
and RSV."
"Today she almost died from a flea treatment I bought at Wal Mart!!!! The warning on my box suggested a slight reaction NOT DEATH!!! I am irate. I want this stuff removed from the shelves. I am shocked, and disgusted. I will lend my name to any lawsuit that removes this neurotoxin from the market."
"For a corporation, these are just animals…but for me and my family Lisa is a part of our home. When my daughter was heart broken over not having a sibling , we brought Lisa into our lives. She has been more then a companion, she is a sweet, innocent creature who has given so much more then we have given her. I hope she will forgive us for inflicting this horror on her."
"***Her nightmare started at 9 pm last night, it has now been 24 hrs later. She is acting like her old self…after 3 baths and half a benedryl. She still has to see the vet."
"P.S. Frontline is available online in single doses for alot less then the vet, and you can now buy pet insurance for low rates."
"I will never buy any Sergeants products again."
"Thank you for the VITAL, LIFE SAVING INFORMATION. You saved our cat."
"The Swift Family,
David, Charity, Myranda Mae, & Lisa"
If the EPA is serious about "how best to obtain public input" on this issue, make the public aware that the EPA is seeking public comment by issuing a press release
(a notice in the Federal Register and on the EPA's website is not sufficient). It would also be helpful if the press release reminded pet owners and veterinarians of the importance of reporting adverse incidents to the EPA, and urge them to submit comments. The press release should clearly state HOW to submit comments and WHEN the public comment period expires.
I would also like to reiterate a point that Jan made in her response: The EPA
should make it EASY for the average person to submit comments (other than by accessing federal dockets on www.regulations.gov). I do not believe that most
people would take the time to submit comments by regular mail, and doing so
online via www.regulations.gov may prove to be difficult for those who are
unfamiliar with the process.
Perhaps it would be helpful if public comments could simply be sent to an email
address, or submitted in a text box on your website.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
James TerBush
Website Administrator
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Hi, I just came across your website. I also had an issue with Bio Spot. About 4 mos.
ago my boxer must have brought a tick into the house. I used Revaloution at the time
and really never thought I had anything to worry about. Well, of course, by the time I discovered I had ticks in the house it was pretty bad. I have two dogs, the boxer and
a 5 year old Dachsaund. After I discovered the ticks in the house and on the dogs I
pretty much freaked out and ran to Petsmart at about 8pm. The vet area was closed
so I looked for something I could purchase over the counter. Bio Spot sounded like
the answer to my problems, "Kills Ticks in 24 hours". I purchased one package for
each of the dogs. I applied it to both dogs and almost immediately my dachsaund
started to have a reaction. I immediately bathed him but it was too late. I have never
seen anything like it. The poor animal was going crazy, running around the house,
rolling on the floor, drinking water, he even tore up his bed and ate the inside. If I
brought him outside he just kept eating grass like it was candy. Then he started to
shake his body, could not walk 6 inches without shaking, like when you give them a
bath. The next morning I took him to the vet and they told me he had a reaction from
the Bio-Spot. They had to do all kind of tests, blood work etc. and give the poor thing steroids. It took him about 2-3 weeks to stop the shaking and still to this day shakes. It was an awful experience and now I am so afraid to put anything on him not knowing
what actually caused the reaction.
Susan 12/14/09
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Hi Jim and Jan,
I just concluded a conference call with Kimberly Nesci and Clare Gesalman.
Your email messages covering your own communications and conversations
with Ms. Nesci and Ms. Gesalman were invaluable in the conversation--thank
you both.
Here are the key points of our discussion: 1) I wanted to know the trend
line of potential adverse incidents reported year-to-date in 2009 vs. 2008.
2) I wanted to underscore the tremendous difficulty the public has today in
providing input into the EPA decision-making process (you've both
articulately made the same points in your communications to them). I also
wanted to highlight the point that the registrants, manufacturers, pesticide
organization advocates, etc., have an out of balance advantage over the
public in providing input. That component includes the human relationships
that are built over time between members of the EPA and the registrants,
manufacturers, etc. 3) I wanted to better understand the timeline of
mitigation proposals being developed by the EPA. 4) I wanted to discuss
the damage done disproportionately to low income pet owners seeking an
inexpensive way to treat their companion animals. 5) I wanted to be assured
the EPA is aware of Hartz Mountain Corporation's claims regarding an
"independent statistical analysis" conducted by Dr. Charles Gaskins,
Department of Animal Sciences, Washington State University, and the fact
that this analysis is based upon conflict of interest and is hardly independent.
The statistics for 2009 are being analyzed and normalized (ensuring accuracy
both in terms of an actual incident and compared to previous years). They
would not give me specific numbers and, in fact, said they were very far
behind in calculating the details for 2009. When I pointed out that it does
not make sense to me to be preparing mitigation proposals when they didn't
have current data they explained their position this way: They do not expect
the 2009 reported potential incidents to be less than 2008, most probably
much higher. Secondly, their mitigation proposals are not "cast in concrete",
but a set of options. They said that their scientists and veterinarians believe,
since the product ingredients have not changed, the problem is not changing
for the better. In other words (my words) they are making their mitigation decisions/proposals based upon 2008 data (and the increase of potential
reported incidents) combined with recommendations from their recently
formed "Companion Animal Team" of scientists and veterinarians. I told
them that I was disappointed that mitigation proposals were being drafted
without the benefit of public input. Again, they came back to "options" and
nothing "cast in concrete".
They agreed with the fact that the public input process is poor-- cumbersome
at best and not at all user-friendly. They said they were committed to improving
it. I indicated that it's a two-pronged problem: its not user-friendly and their is
no public awareness of the process. Clare Gesalman, who is Chief,
Communications Services Branch (the public input process falls within her
responsibility) asked if I would send her a list of suggestions for improvement.
I agreed to do this and I would welcome your input, Jim and Jan.
The timeline for announcing mitigation proposals is "early 2010". They could not or would not be more specific. Jim, I completely agree with your point about the timing being a "gift" versus the EPA asking for public input during the holidays. I still have
the sense that their actions have been developed or nearly developed without public input. I'm very worried about that. However, January/February is much better than December.
The point I made about the damage to poor and low income families being
disproportionate seemed to sound logical to them but I did not get the impression
it made much impact. I'm going to attempt to bring this point forward to Debra
Edwards, Steve Owens and Lisa Jackson and also make it a part of public input.
I do not know why this point doesn't resonate--it's either the way I make the point
(poor salesmanship) or their conclusions and actions are fait accompli.
The last item discussed was Hartz Mountain's claim of an "independent statistical analysis" conducted on their behalf by a Washington State University professor,
a "respected independent expert in statistics", Dr. Charles T. Gaskins. I asked if
this "study" was brought forward to the EPA. They indicated that they were aware
of the study and it had been brought to the EPA by Hartz. I also asked if they were
not only aware of Hartz's claims regarding Gaskins' analysis but the concern over
the "independence" and efficacy of the study. They indicated they were aware
of both, but said they were reluctant to make any more comments. I asked if they
had the details of the conflict of interest in the study. They asked if I would forward
them the specifics, which I will do.
This is the summary of a 45 minute conversation. I could be wrong but my sense
is that they were courteous but perfunctory in their responses. I did not get the impression that something significant was being developed to seriously mitigate
the health risks of these products. I was disappointed that mitigation proposals
were being developed without public input and without complete data, although
their comments about the 2007 and 2008 data indicating serious problems,
supported by the input from their "Companion Animal Team" was logical. I
did get the strong sense that the public awareness of the problems with these
products has never been higher--they completely agreed that public awareness
by the media and through personal experience(s) was growing and has never
been higher.
I sure appreciate the excellent letters, emails and communications you both
sent to Kimberly Nesci, Clare Gesalman and others. Your messages have
been extremely well constructed and logical. Thank you, Jan and Jim, for
everything you are doing. If we could get the media to again focus on this
issue in 2010 I think that would help immensely. Media and public
awareness/communications does concern and move the EPA. I'm still trying
to get Sen. Boxer (who is the chairperson of the Senate oversight committee
that includes the EPA) to get focused on this issue. Her time has been
dominated by the Cap and Trade Bill that she's shepherding through Senate
hearings...it completely dominates her time.
Thanks again for the outstanding work you both do. Your tenacity,
professionalism and just plain "smarts" is inspiring.
Anonymous 12/17/09
Thank you for taking the time to speak with Kimberly Nesci and Clare Gesalman this afternoon, and for sharing the details of your conversation. I can't tell you how much I enjoyed reading your message, and your outstanding follow-up regarding Hartz. I am sure Kimberly Nesci knew about the "independent statistical analysis" because Hartz waves it around like a "get out of jail free" card, but I seriously doubt that she was aware of the extent of the relationship between Hartz and WSU. Absolutely incredible!
The points that you raised were excellent. It amazes me that they are far behind in calculating the adverse incidents for 2009. It's even more amazing to hear the EPA's Chief of Communications acknowledge that their public input process is poor and ask for suggestions on improving it. The EPA isn't just dysfuctional -- it's dysfunctional by design. I hope the numbers for 2009 turn out to be significantly higher than 2008
because it will surely get the attention of the media and the public once again.
I want to respond in more detail this weekend when my brain is functioning better,
but I just wanted to thank you for taking the time to confront the EPA over these issues.
They talk about the need for transparency and greater public involvement, but I think
they prefer no public involvement because it makes their life so much easier.
Thank you for everything that you are doing. You made my day!
James TerBush
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Hi Jim. I have a 2 year old English bulldog that was perfectly healthy up
until last Sunday. We noticed some fleas in the house, so I went to my mom's
and grabbed one of her Frontline Plus packets and put it on him. My dog
weighs 62 pounds and this was a 89-132 lb dog packet. Frontline says that no
adverse reactions have been reported for up to 5 times the recommended
dosage, so I thought it would be fine to use on him. About 12 hours later
(the amount of time I am assuming it took his central nervous system to
absorb the product and distribute it to his brain), he had the first of four
focal seizures. These only involved his head and one was his leg, but they
were confined to one body part at a time. They were not grand mal seizures,
but they were very obviously caused by something neurological. He had 4 of
these within a 24 hour period. After his second, I brought him to the vet,
who said that it most likely a focal seizure and that Frontline wouldn't
have caused it. She said wait until after he has another episode, then bring
him in for blood tests. As you know, primary epilepsy is the diagnosis they
make when they cannot pinpoint a cause for the seizures. I did not bring him
back in, but he had one more the next night while he was sleeping-this time,
the shaking was less severe. I gave him a bath the next day and washed as
much as I could off after I learned about all the fipronil toxicity cases on
the web. I believe most of it soaked into his skin already. It has now been
one week since the day I applied too much of the Frontline Plus on him and
it's hard to tell, but I still think I see him shivering at times. Keep in
mind, he has had Frontline on him at other times with no reactions, but
always the proper dosage. It looks like it was fipronil posioning and it has
been slowly working it's way through his liver and out of his system over
the last week. I am irate at the close-mindedness of the vet and that if I
hadn't done my own research, I would have possibly put my dog on
phenobarbitol or potassium bromide that could possibly take years off his
life and make him suffer from liver failure. I could be wrong and these
tremors along with the Frontline Plus overdose could be completely
unrelated, but it seems like quite a coincidence. And it if were epilepsy,
would he have clustered on the first day that he ever showed symptoms? He
was also unbelievably lethargic the first 3 days after I administered it and
now he is back to his happy-playful self. I know he is the perfect age for
the onset of epilepsy, but it seems like too much of a coincidence. Please
let me know your thoughts.
Cynthia 12/20/09
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(Below is email that I sent to Kimberly Nesci at the EPA on 12/20/09)
Dear Ms. Nesci,
I would like to pass on to you this short letter from a veterinarian that was published yesterday in a local newspaper in Auburn, New York:
If you polled veterinarians around the country, I believe the vast majority of them would share Dr. Stevens' opinion of these products, borne out of tragic experience.
The article highlights a serious concern that has not been addressed by current regulations: namely, those who purchase inexpensive, over-the-counter flea control products because they are economically disadvantaged are at greater risk of adverse impact because they cannot afford veterinary care (which can amount to hundreds or thousands of dollars) for pets that have been poisoned by these products. All spot-on products are capable of causing adverse reactions, but the inexpensive, over-the-counter spot-on products are more likely to cause adverse incidents because they contain high concentrations of older-generation pesticides--such as permethrin,
phenothrin and cyphenothrin.
As you meet in the weeks ahead with your Companion Animal Team to formulate a
risk mitigation proposal, I hope you will take into consideration the adverse impact these products have on the economically disadvantaged. It's an environmental
injustice that should not be tolerated by the EPA.
Also, in the spirit of transparency and openness, I encourage you to disclose the names, background, and affiliations of those who serve on your Companion Animal Team.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
James TerBush
Website Administrator
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Jim, thank you for formulating and sending an excellent letter. There are
many examples on your site, HartzVictims.org and other media sites of poor
and low-income people that have experienced terrible tragedies because they
could not afford the more expensive, but safer alternatives. They then have
to endure the next blow--no hope of paying for proper veterinary medical
treatment for their pet. You've articulated it exactly right--it's an injustice that
the economically disadvantaged are not receiving appropriate attention or
concern by a government agency that claims to protect humans, animals
and the environment.
Your point about the opinion of most veterinarians is also correct. Many,
however, are reluctant to speak out because of fear of retribution from
their employer or the product manufacturers. The EPA know this. I'm
delighted Dr. Stevens had the courage to write a sensible, cautionary
letter. And thank you for catching it and using it as just one example of
the majority of veterinarians' opinions. I'll do my best to continue to
drive this point home as well.
Anonymous 12/20/09
I have been receiving letters for several years from people who could not afford to take their pet to the emergency vet after an adverse incident (most emergency vet clinics require payment upfront), but it never occurred to me that these incidents could be viewed as an environmental injustice. You are the first that I am aware of to make that connection, and it's brilliant.
Lawyers do not want to get involved in cases involving pesticide poisoning or pets, but perhaps they would take an interest if some of these cases were really a matter of environmental justice. That's intriguing!
James TerBush
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I know you are very aware that Frontline, the spot on product purchased via
veterinary clinical environments, which is a more `expensive' alternative is just as lethal/not safe as the over-the-counter products. We all become `economically disadvantaged' when we are writing checks for thousands of dollars in follow up
care from the results of spot-on products.
Anyway, just want to make sure when you correspond again, we don't forget the
fact that one of the most noteworthy and vet recommended/direct pharma rep. sold products is one of the most lethal.
Thanks for the continued `reminders' to Ms. Nesci and group. Let's hope they take heed.
Jan 12/21/09
You make an excellent point, Jan. It's an injustice for anyone to have to spend
hundreds or thousands of dollars to care for a pet that has been poisoned by
one of these products--regardless if they are purchased through veterinarians
or over-the-counter.
James TerBush
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Hi Jan,
Without doubt you are right. There are a lot of dimensions to this problem and, as you wrote, most people--middle class and lower economic status--do not have the ability
to borrow from family or spend hundreds of dollars or more attempting to provide veterinary medical treatment to an injured animal. I know of no one that has spent as much as you have rescuing Choe, which is a testament to your love and commitment.
Difficult economic times exacerbate the problem and in today's environment everyone starts looking for ways to save a dollar. The product manufacturers know this, gear their marketing and advertising accordingly and actually thrive in difficult economic times by taking advantage of people looking for something cheap. Minorities and those economically less fortunate are disproportionately negatively affected. As you pointed out, Frontline and Advantage are certainly lethal but they are not as popular in a difficult economic environment.
I would like the EPA and state regulatory agencies to give this some thought. We have an Administration and Congress today that claims to be "for the little guy". The EPA--with their new leadership--has made some of the same pronouncements. I would like to see if this issue resonates with them. It's a legitimate issue but it remains to be seen if the EPA cares. I think the media may. I also think some politicians may.
It will be interesting to see the response we receive from this. You're right, however; we cannot forget the big picture which includes more than the over-the-counter products. Thanks.
Rich 12/21/09
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My husband and I recently purchased Bio Spot because we suspected our cats had fleas and wanted to quickly treat the problem before going to the vet for a long-term solution. As I applied the solution to one of our three cats, some of it dripped down the side of her coat, which led me to wonder what would happen if she ingested some of the product. I wiped up the excess, then looked on the box and inside for some type
of warning labels or directions to ease my mind that it wasn't harmful to cats. After all, who would sell a product for animals without considering the possibility that they like
to groom themselves? When I saw there were not any labels beyond the directions, I began to get worried, so I looked up the hazzards of the product online. Then I really began to panic - horror story after horror story about pet illnesses associated with
the very product I had just unwittingly given my pets! Now, I am not one to base my
actions on what others say, but I thought it would be prudent to keep my eyes on our animals "just in case," so I brought them into the same room with me to monitor. It's a good thing I did! Shortly after, one of the cats began to foam at the mouth, and that
was all it took for me to rouse my husband, grab some towels, and give my kittens a late-night bath! I still don't know if they will be okay or not, as some symptoms can be unseen, but I have learned my lesson about over-the-counter treatments! I'll never be
so cheap again!
Rachel 12/21/09
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I spoke with Kimberly Nesci this morning. She invited me to call her to discuss where they are in their risk mitigation proposal process.
They are hoping to announce their proposal in February. She assured me that the registrants and trade groups have not been involved in the process, nor do those groups sit on their Companion Animal Team. I asked her if it would be possible to release information about that team. She said they normally don't reveal information about their internal workgroups (all of the team members--approximately twelve--are EPA employees who were involved in the registration of these products).
The public comment period could be 30 or 60 days. We discussed the need to make
it easy for the public to comment (instead of using www.regulations.gov), and to include that information in a press release. She said they could setup an email address to receive public comments, which sounded like a good idea. She reiterated that their proposal was simply a starting point, but I expressed concern that if they receive few public comments, their proposal will likely end up being their final decision.
I asked how close they were to implementing a web-based reporting system for the public (which would allow the public to report adverse incidents directly to the EPA). She said that it's still a long way off. I brought up the fact that the NPIC's website has a web-based reporting system for veterinarians, which could easily be changed to allow the public to use it. Also, Canada's EPA (PMRC) has a reporting system in place which they demonstrated to the EPA last May. I mentioned that if the EPA had such a system, it would not be necessary to rely on manufacturers to provide adverse incident data--which is often incomplete and underreported. It would also allow the EPA to easily determine how many incidents have been reported (instead of sifting through aggregate summaries from the registrants). She agreed and said that she would
look into it.
I expressed concern that their risk mitigation proposal might not be very effective, noting that label revisions could take years to implement and longer to determine if they were effective in reducing adverse incidents. She acknowledged the concern.
I also mentioned that we do not know what effect these products are having on
children, but they must be having some adverse effect. I mentioned that current risk assessments were not effective in protecting pets and were probably not effective in protecting children, either. I questioned the EPA's definition of toddlers as being 3-6 years old, and said that it should be based on children 2-3 years old. She mentioned that the EPA has proposed changes to the residential risk assessment guidelines. I mentioned that the FIFRA Scientific Advisory Panel recently met to evaluate the proposed guidelines, and expressed concern that it was not protective enough of toddlers.
I enjoyed having the opportunity to speak with her--she seems very sincere and committed to finding an effective solution to this problem. However, she is just one person in a bureaucracy that has done little in the past ten years to protect the public from dangerous spot-on products.
James TerBush
Website Administrator
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(Below is email that I sent to Ms. Nesci at the EPA on 12/22/09)
Dear Ms. Nesci,
Thank you for taking the time to speak with me this morning. It was very kind of you
to extend to me the opportunity, and I very much appreciate it.
If I can ask a favor of you, could you please forward these links to the members of your Companion Animal Team, just in case they are not aware of them?
The former link concerns risks from spot-on products that are not accounted for by current risk assessments, and the latter concerns risks to toddlers (ages 2-3) if the proposed Standard Operating Procedures for Residential Exposure Assessment (SOPs) are adopted.
I look forward to reading the risk mitigation proposal when it is released early next
year, and the opportunity to provide additional comments.
Best regards,
James TerBush
Website Administrator
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On Dec. 21 gave my two chihuahuas rocky and coco 3 yr.old Flea treatment
with Biospot for dogs under 15 pounds at about 3pm, by 8:00 guests at my home
noticed rocky was walking funny. At 9:00 pm after reading biospot pkge. I
washed both with a shampoo. Two days later Dec.23, both dogs having tremor
like symptoms. called the emergency phone# on the Biospot pkg, and talked
to Emily poison center for animals. the spca vet said to bath again with a
dish soap, used Ivory liquid and to rub Vitamin E on site where the Biospot
was applied. At 9:00 pm both dogs still having tremors or jerking in their
hind quarters.
Paul 12/24/09
Astoria, OR
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(Below is email that I sent on 12/27 to Michael W. Fox, a well-known veterinarian and author of the syndicated column, "Animal Doctor")
Dear Dr. Fox,
I maintain a website that concerns adverse reactions in pets from flea and tick products. Four years ago, I emailed you to thank you for educating pet owners about the risks of using these products on pets.
I am writing today to express my concern about your recommendation of Vectra 3D, a flea and tick spot-on product made by Summit VetPharm. Here is your article, Preventing Fleas, Ticks, and Mosquitoes:
Excerpt:
"Possibly the safest of the new topical treatments is Summit VetPharm's Vectra 3D
to use when all other control measures fail."
Here is the Material Data Safety Sheet for Vectra 3D:
As you can see, Vectra 3D contains almost as much permethrin as many of the
over-the-counter spot-on products (which are notorious for causing adverse reactions
in dogs and cats). Vectra 3D also contains another pesticide (dinotefuran) and other ingredients which heighten the efficacy (toxicity) of the formulation.
Vectra 3D often contains a significantly larger dosage for your pet's weight than other brands that contain the same active ingredient, which increases the possibility of an overdose.
For example, if you have a 9 lb. dog, the recommended dosage of K9 Advantix is
0.4 mL, but the recommended dosage of Vectra 3D, which contains the same active ingredient (permethrin), is 1.6 mL - FOUR times as much pesticide.
You may also be surprised to learn that Summit VetPharm and Hartz are both owned
by the Sumitomo Corp. In fact, Vectra 3D was created by Hartz Chief Scientific Officer, Dr. Albert Ahn. Hartz flea and tick products have an appalling safety record.
Here is the patent for Vectra 3D, which lists The Hartz Mountain Corporation as the Assignee:
I sincerely hope that you will reconsider your recommendation of Vectra 3D. Many people (including myself) highly respect your advice, and may have no reservations about using Vectra 3D based upon your recommendation.
Thank you for your consideration and everything you do to improve the well-being
of pets.
Sincerely,
James TerBush
Website Administrator
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This is the link to a 5/28/09 ABC news story about flea meds for cats and
dogs:
It was recommended by my vet to switch to Revolution for my cats as
we have heartworm and earmite issues here in NC. The first time I applied
it my 4 cats were fine. This time one of my cats has what appears to be a
chemical burn on his back. This is very hard for us because he is already
skittish as he is a rescue and was just coming out of his shell. Now he
is back to hiding under the beds and running away from us. I will never
use ANY chemical flea meds again. I have also done research and found the
vinegar and crushed garlic tablets highly recommended. I also called my
uncle who is head of the science dept. at the college of education in New
Zealand and he recommends using natural flea deterrents as well. He says
he would never use the chemical flea medications on his cats and only uses
crushed garlic pills on their food and every couple of days sprays vinegar
on his carpet and allows it to dry before vacuumming. At least my cat is
eating and does not yet appear sick. Hopefully I bathed him soon enough.
Now we just have to get him to trust us again. I wish I had found your
website before I used Revolution. I plan on giving my vet your website
address to that he can see the problems with these chemicals.
Jennifer 12/29/09
(NC mom to 4 rescued dogs and 4 rescued cats)
[Photo]
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I have always used Advantix on my Poodle and the last time I used it he had a mild seizure in the middle of the night. I searched online and did like most here did, I gave him a bath in dish soap. I had never had an issue with these flea products before on my dogs or cats. Also this month I treated my 4 cats (dogs and cats treated on the same day) I used Advantage on the cats and one of my cats with in a few days became very lethargic, not eating, had no strength and looked very frail. I took him to the vet and his kidneys were failing. The vet didn't feel that the flea meds were the culprit, he said it was something that comes with age over time (he is 14) but I find it interesting that his health started to deteriorate with in days of the flea treatment. Maybe it just accelerated it. He actually is hanging in there after the vet gave him a shot and we changed his food, the vet said it may or may not work and if it does it may only be for a short time. So here is hoping it continues to work. I did want to give a site that gives all sorts of home remedies for flea treatment:
I have since incorporated the Brewers yeast with garlic tabs (which can be bought in any pet store) into all my animals diets, also a little Apple Cider Vinegar in their water (not much, and they don't even notice it). Of course these remedies will take a little while to work but I am willing to give it a shot in order to keep my pets a little longer.
Patti 12/31/09
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(Below is a message that was posted on HartzVictims.org on 12/31/09)
Hartz Ruined Christmas!
Christmas morning started like any other but quickly took a very scary turn. I put my beautiful 2 1/2 year old lab (Abby) up while I dressed which took me about 45 minutes. When I went to get Abby she was suffering terrible twitching, dilated eyes and was slobbering profusely. I panicked because I had never seen anything like this but had enough composure to immediately begin making calls to see what to do. I called a local pet groomer and explained Abby’s symptoms to her and shared that my husband had treated her for fleas the night before. The groomer asked if my husband had by any chance used Hartz flea killer and upon speaking with him found he had. Her response was that this product was nothing but poison and Abby’s symptoms were typical of some pets that had been treated with this product (Hartz Ultra Guard). She suggested I get her to the vet immediately. Upon arriving at the vet’s office and after explaining the previous nite’s flea treatment the vet said she was 100% sure the Hartz flea treatment was the cause of Abby’s illness. As a result of using this deadly $5.00 treatment Abby had to stay in the hospital overnite where she was throroughly bathed, given IV treatments, injections of muscle relaxer, charcoal to help clean her system, etc at the cost of $800+. The vet said she treats at least 2 pets per week because loving owners who knew no better used Hartz products on their pets. She also said the majority of the smaller pets didn’t survive the damage done by this product. How in the world can this company continue to be in business! Have the “powers that be” at Hartz no conscience or compassion for animals at all! There is nothing on the product package that alerts potential customers of the possible side effects of use of these products. Is this company held to a lower standard just because they are manufacturing products for pets? Shouldn’t they be required to make buyers aware of potential harms and even fatalities suffered as a result of use or their products? The folks at Hartz can rest assured I will tell everyone everywhere I go about my experience and I will definitely enourage everyone I encounter not to use Hartz products. I would love to see someone persue a law suit against this money hungy company. Quite obviously their concern lies with profit, not the well being of the user!
Copyright © 2002-2009 BioSpotVictims.org All rights reserved.
DISCLAIMER: Below are messages that I have received from others whose dogs and cats experienced adverse reactions after using flea control products. I have no way of knowing if the information in these messages is factual, or if the products they used were the actual cause of the adverse reactions.
