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VETERINARY LAB CHARGED WITH SELLING ILLEGAL PET PRODUCTS

Release Date: 9/28/2000
Contact Information: For Immediate Release: September 28, 2000 Contact: Wendy L. Chavez, (415)744-1588

     SAN FRANCISCO The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency today issued an Administrative Civil Complaint against Eaton Veterinary Laboratories of Phoenix, Ariz. for selling unregistered and mis-branded versions of the popular flea-control products, Advantage for Dogs, Advantage for Cats, Frontline Top Spot Dog, and Frontline Top Spot Cat.

     Both of the illegal Advantage products are missing labeling information required for safe use. The Advantage pet products are missing first aid instructions and storage and disposal requirements.  The Frontline pet products lack the warning that children are prohibited from applying the product and that the product must not be reapplied for 30 days.  

     Earlier this year the EPA issued a stop sale order to the company to cease the sale of the illegal products.

     The EPA will not register a pesticide until it has been tested to show that it will not pose an unreasonable risk when used according to the directions.  The agency also makes sure that pesticide labels provide consumers with the information they need to use the products safely.  Pesticide products that have undergone this review process are recognizable by the EPA registration number printed on the label.  

     There has been a recent increase in the number of companies bringing unregistered pet products into the United States.  Last year the EPA fined a San Diego pet store $15,400 for selling unregistered Advantage for Dogs and Advantage for Cats.  Also, Stop Sale Orders were issued to distributors in California, Arizona, and Florida.  

     Today's action was based on inspections conducted by the Arizona Department of Agriculture, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, and the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

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