Towards the end of last year, Professor Dave Goulson, who spoke at a Pollinator Project event in Guernsey in 2019, released research that found toxic insecticides in 99% of samples from rivers in England.
States vet David Chamberlain was aware of the article, as well as a paper in the Vet Record Journal which highlighted similar concerns.
‘Analysis of waste water here in Guernsey is due to take place to see if it is an issue locally. However, as the inputs come from waste water treatment plants recycling water back to rivers in the UK, the local risk is likely to be low,’ he said.
There are currently no restrictions on the types of treatment used locally.
In Guernsey there are about 10,000 cats and the same number of dogs, according to the manager of the GSPCA Steve Byrne.
‘This means that, with many walking through and swimming in our waterways, de-fleaing products could be contaminating our waters – especially if owners are taking their animals out very soon after the sprays or spot-ons which are often used,’ he said.
There are a range of flea treatments in various forms which help prevent or eradicate exo-parasites such as fleas and ticks.
Unwanted parasites can often be picked up when walking dogs if they are not treated and can cause a number of issues for animals.
They can even jump onto humans, especially in the warmer months. But Mr Byrne said the island’s mild climate means this can happen all year round in Guernsey.
‘When treating your pets for exo-parasites like fleas and endoparasites for worms, we would always advise speaking to your vet, who would advise that the animal doesn’t get wet straight after the treatments,’ Mr Byrne said.
He said it was extremely concerning to hear that studies are showing that these toxins from treatments are finding their ways into waterways and oceans.
‘It is extremely important not to over-apply these treatments,’ he said.
‘While we have to ensure our pets are safe from harm, we also have to ensure the environment is well cared for and the GSPCA would ask that you please do talk to your vet about the available products for your pets.’
For animals with pet passports travelling abroad – and especially those brought in from abroad – it is extremely important that they are treated for parasites as many countries outside of Guernsey have parasites that are not present in the island, some of which can be zoonotic and put human health at risk.
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