CVS has launched a Lifestyle Parasite Risk Assessment initiative, designed to help its veterinary teams to take a sustainable, risk-based approach to parasite control in companion animals.

The company says the new framework is designed to help veterinary teams make prescribing decisions which balance animal welfare, public health, and environmental sustainability, the latter especially in the light of recent research which found significant levels of imidacloprid and fipronil - which are toxic to invertebrates - in waterways1,2. 

The Lifestyle Parasite Risk Assessment considers the following factors before recommending treatment, including:

  • Pet-specific behaviours such as scavenging, hunting, or eating raw food
  • Environmental exposure, including outdoor access and swimming habits
  • Household composition, especially the presence of vulnerable individuals
  • Travel history, both domestic and international
  • Owner compliance and preferred administration methods

Alongside the new assessment, CVS has launched a training course for all staff who interact with parasiticides, so they can confidently explain the benefits of lifestyle-based prescribing. 

References

  1. Perkins R, Whitehead M, Civil W, Goulson D. Potential role of veterinary flea products in widespread pesticide contamination of English rivers. Sci Total Environ. 2021 Feb 10;755(Pt 1):143560. doi: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.143560. Epub 2020 Nov 7. PMID: 33199013.
  2. Perkins R, Goulson D. To flea or not to flea: survey of UK companion animal ectoparasiticide usage and activities affecting pathways to the environment. PeerJ. 2023 Aug 4;11:e15561. doi: 10.7717/peerj.15561. PMID: 37554336; PMCID: PMC10405796.

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