6 months ago
DISTRICT HEIGHTS, Md. (WUSA) -- "Come on, good girl."
Jennifer Lewis-Gooden's constant companion helped her recover from a spinal cord injury. Now, Sparkle is the one who needs to be nursed back to health.
"She was frothing, foaming, a little foam was coming out of her mouth. And, her breathing got very labored, " Jennifer complains.
All this, after Jennifer applied Sergeant's Sentry Pro flea and tick ointment to her 5 year old miniature Schnauzer-Poodle's back in April.
"I put her in the bath tub, " says Jennifer. "When the water hit her and her fur laid down I noticed red blotches."
That was just the beginning.
"This is the bill from where we decided to let her stay overnight."
The $800 bill would quickly add up to $1500. Three hospital visits. And, all from a $20 treatment.
"It was tearing me up. I was angry and really guilty because I bought this stuff. I put it on her, she didn't have anything to do with this, " says Jennifer.
Thousands of other animals had reactions to the Sergeant's spot on treatment. The Environmental Protection Agency says last year there were 22, 228 reported cases -- that's half of the total reported incidents for similar products on the market.
But the EPA says most of those reactions were minor.
Veterinarian Dr. Narendar Khianey treated Sparkle at Prince George's Animal Hospital. He says pet owners should avoid over the counter flea and tick treatments.
"Number one, they are too toxic for the dogs needs and they don't even work, " says Dr. Khianey.
Jennifer realizes she's not alone. Other pet owners have detailed their experiences online.
The EPA says it's taking steps to address the high number incidents. They are evaluating the product to see if there is a problem with it's formulation or misuse.
Jennifer is clear about what she wants to happen."It should not be on the shelf, on sale, for people to buy."
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