What every pet owner should know about protecting your pets – and our waterways
When the warmer months arrive, most of us start thinking about two things: fleas and ticks, and for good reason. These parasites become more active as temperatures rise.
Recent research and reporting have highlighted a growing concern that many pet owners are still unaware of:
Some common flea and tick treatments may be harming our rivers, wildlife, and ecosystems.
What’s really in Flea & Tick treatments?
Many conventional flea and tick treatments – especially spot-on topical treatments contain powerful insecticides such as fipronil and imidacloprid.
These chemicals are deisgned to kill parasites effectively, but they don’t just stay on your pet. Once applied, they spread through your dog’s coat and from there, they can enter the wider environment.
How do these chemicals end up in rivers?
It’s suprisingly easy.
According to recent environmental research and reporting:
- Washing hands after applying treatments can send residues down the drain
- Bathing dogs or washing bedding can release chemicals into wastewater
- Dogs swimming in rivers or lakes can carry these substances directly into natural ecosystems
Scientists have found that these pathways are contributing to widespread contamination.
In fact, studies show that fipronil residues have been detected in up to 98% of river and lake samples in the UK, with imidacloprid also found in a significant proportion of waterways.
So, what are the alternatives?
This doesn’t mean abandoning flea and tick care altogether.
Instead, it’s about taking a mor thoughtful, layered approach, such as:
- Regularly checking your dog after walks
- Using flea combs to monitor for infestations
- Speaking to your vet about tailored treatment plans
- Incorporating gentler, supportive products into your routine
A gentler, more natural approach
For everyday support – especially before walks or outdoor adventures, our Critters Shampoo is designed as a simple, no-rinse way to help keep unwanted visitors at bay.
Formulated with a carefully selected blend of natural essential oils, it helps repel fleas, ticks, flies and more – while being gentle on your dog’s skin and the environment.
- 🌿 A gentle, no-rinse formula—no need for bathing
- 🐾 Easy application before walks
- ⏱ Helps keep critters at bay for up to 8 hours
- 🦠No chemicals entering our waterways or ecosystem
Every pet is different, so it’s best to have an open conversation with your vet about the most suitable appraoch, whether that’s a treatment plan or alternative options tailored to your pet’s lifestyle and risk factors.
You can also support your pet’s wellbeing with gentle, more natural care routines. That’s why our Critters Shampoo with it’s specially formulated blend of essential oils are designed to be strong enough to repel nasty critters but gentle enough for your dogs skin and the wildlife around.
