The Nation : EPA to Study Flea Spray

The Environmental Protection Agency said it would investigate complaints that a flea and tick repellent made by Hartz Mountain Industries has killed or poisoned more than 200 household pets. Phil Hutton, who heads the EPA’s Pesticide Registration Division, said it would take about a week to analyze research tests conducted by the New Jersey company, which manufactures Hartz Blockade flea and tick spray. Hartz defended the product, saying in a statement: “We believe the reported rate is consistent with the safest group of insecticides.” Dr. William Buck, director of the Illinois Animal Poison Information Center, said the center has received 300 calls from pet owners and veterinarians about the product since it was introduced in March.