When your dog has fleas, you can find yourself bulking up on ointments and collars to get rid of the pesky little pests. However, these anti-flea products are laden with chemicals – they’re designed to kill fleas, after all – and your pup’s wellbeing could be at risk. According to The Humane Society, 1,600 pet deaths in the last five years have been attributed to flea treatments. Moreover, family wellness could also be threatened by these treatments, as many of the ingredients in flea medications are known carcinogens. Then there are poisonings and allergic reactions to consider, the signs of which include salivating, pupil dilation, tremors, vomiting, hiding, shivering and skin irritation. Still, why let it get to that point, when you can use natural and effective flea remedies instead?
1. Homemade spray: Although this spray won’t kill fleas or eggs once they arrive, you can prevent them from appearing in the first place. The spray contains citrus oil and lavender oil, both of which are harmless to dogs but you might find your pooch is more relaxed, as lavender has a calming effect. This herb can be unsafe for cats, however, so avoid using lavender on them. For your homemade spray, slice six lemons into thin round slices with the skin intact, and add them to a pan filled with water. Bring the water to a boil, remove it from the heat and let it sit overnight. Then, strain the liquid into a spray bottle and add 50 drops of lavender essential oil. You should use this spray whenever your dog goes outdoors or has a bath. Alternately, soak his collar in the mixture to make a flea collar of your own. You can also spray your rugs, carpeting, furniture and garden to prevent fleas from settling in.
2. A healthy, balanced diet: Much as it is with your wellness, your furry little friend can benefit no-end from a healthy, balanced diet, especially with regards to fleas. You may find that the right amount of nutrients can give your dog all he needs to properly combat all the toxins he is exposed to daily, and fight off pests naturally. Flaxseed oil, probiotics and digestive enzymes can help to boost his immune system and help him resist pests on his own, while small pinches of garlic can keep fleas at bay and support your pet’s liver and kidneys. Too much garlic can be toxic to dogs, but a small amount will be emanated through his skin (you won’t notice it, but the fleas will – think of them as vampires). Apple cider vinegar is also a beneficial addition to a doggie diet, as it makes the skin more acidic and, as a result, less appealing to fleas.
3. Topical remedies: Essential oils, such as peppermint, lemongrass, cedar and pennyroyal, can help fend off fleas, just make sure you dilute them and put them in places your dog cannot easily lick, as large doses are dangerous to pets. Simply mix a few drops into a teaspoon of olive oil and rub on the top of your pooch’s neck or base of the tail. You can also steep rosemary in two cups of boiling water, let it cool, and add it to up to a gallon of warm water which you can then pour over your dog. Finally, try sprinkling diatomaceous earth on your dog’s food or skin, or on your carpet (as long as you remember to vacuum it up later). This is basically ground-up algae, but it kills parasites internally. Just make sure to purchase a food-grade version of DE or it could cause breathing problems and other serious side effects for both your dog and you.