The House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee has continued its inquiry into Pet Parasite Medications (PPMs) by hearing from representatives from the pet health industry.
Giving evidence today (June 17) was Dr Donal Murphy, deputy CEO and head of International and Regulatory Affairs at National Office of Animal Health (NOAH); Dr Ian Wright, chairman and director at parasite control advisory body ESCCAP; and Dr Jacqui Skelly, head of veterinary technical services, UK and Ireland, at health products supplier Elanco.
The investigation has been triggered by concerns raised by the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) and the Environment Agency about the presence of fipronil and imidacloprid in British watercourses, potentially damaging the delicate ecosystems. The VMD has proposed changing the status of certain pet parasite treatments from a general licence to restricting them for sale only through vets, pharmacists, or Suitably Qualified Persons (SQPs) in stores.
During the evidence session, NOAH highlighted the important role that risk-based parasite prevention plays in protecting animal health and welfare, while also emphasising the importance of responsible use, pointing out that parasites can adversely affect human health as well as animals.
Speaking on behalf of the organisation, Dr Murphy maintained that any regulatory changes should consider the full picture of parasite protection including animal welfare, environmental protection, responsible use, access to treatment, and the potential consequences for pets and households if parasite infestations become more common or harder to manage.
He said: “Our pets rely on us to keep them safe, healthy and free from avoidable distress. Effective parasite control is a key part of that responsibility, helping to protect pets from parasites that can cause discomfort, pain and, in some cases, serious health problems.
“The animal health industry is working hard alongside animal health professionals to promote evidence-based, risk-based parasite control and to ensure pet owners have the information they need to make the right choices for their animals.”
