Luckily, there are a number of natural ways to keep fleas off your dog. These include diatomaceous earth, apple cider vinegar, and neem oil. While these methods are not a complete solution, they are effective. These methods are safe to use on a regular basis and are recommended by vets.
Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a popular natural remedy that can keep fleas off your dog and other pets. Its acidic properties make it effective at killing fleas. However, you should always dilute it with water before using it on your dog. This will prevent the vinegar from damaging your dog’s skin or eyes. Alternatively, you can add apple cider vinegar to your dog’s bathwater.
You can use apple cider vinegar in many forms, including liquid, homemade topical sprays, and pill forms. However, you must avoid accidentally spraying the vinegar in your dog’s eyes, nose, ears, or open wounds. The vinegar is strong and can sting your dog, so be careful not to get it in these areas. When using the apple cider vinegar remedy on your dog, you must cover its eyes, neck, and armpits. This is because fleas like to live in these areas.
Apple cider vinegar works well on fleas and ticks, so it is an excellent way to keep them off your dog. You can even make your own spray using common household ingredients. The vinegar acts as a repellent and the baking soda helps to dehydrate the fleas. The trick to using apple cider vinegar on your dog is to dilute it to a 50/50 mix of water and vinegar before spraying it on your pet’s fur.
Another natural flea repellent is essential oils. Some essential oils, like rosemary, peppermint, and eucalyptus, repel fleas. When you dilute the essential oil, it is less effective. Just like citrus juice, it must be reapplied frequently.
Diatomaceous earth
Diatomaceous earth is a natural ingredient that can keep fleas off of dogs. It is an inedible, white powder. The FDA lists it as “Generally Recognized As Safe” and has many uses, including gardens and water filtration. Food grade diatomaceous earth contains only 0.5-2 percent crystalline silica, which is nontoxic to humans and most pets.
Diatomaceous earth is safe for your home, but it should be applied in the right place. First, vacuum the area to be treated. Then, use a sieve, a tied off sock or a special applicator to apply the DE to the area. The DE will work best when dry. Keep it on the area for two weeks or until fleas are gone.
Another way to get rid of fleas is to use veterinarian-approved flea products on your pet. These products can be applied to your pet’s skin and can keep fleas off for up to three days. You should always consult with a veterinarian before using any product on your dog.
Diatomaceous earth is a natural flea treatment for dogs and cats. It works by killing parasites in their body. Some people apply it to their dogs’ skin and carpets. However, it can be messy and should not be used around the mouth or eyes of pets.
Neem oil
If you’re concerned that your pet has fleas, neem oil can help keep them at bay. You can dilute the oil and apply it to areas where fleas are active. For example, you can apply it on the dog’s neck and behind the ears. You can also use it on the base of the spine and tail.
While essential oils can be helpful for flea control, you should remember not to let your dog ingest them. You should not add neem oil to your dog’s food or water, and don’t let him lick it. You can also consider using natural flea preventative products like Only Natural Pet’s Easy Defense Kit, which contains a blend of essential oils, brewer’s yeast, B vitamins, and minerals.
Neem oil can also be applied directly to the skin of your dog to control fleas. Neem oil will not suffocate adult fleas, but it will prevent the immature fleas from maturing. In addition to preventing flea infestations, neem oil will also treat ringworm lesions.
While neem oil is highly effective for repelling fleas, it is not a substitute for veterinary treatment. You should always consult with a veterinarian before using neem oil on your dog. Many pet products contain neem oil, including skin wipes, shampoos, and toothpaste. Neem oil can cause allergic reactions and may interact with certain medications.
Laundering soft furnishings
One of the first steps in keeping fleas off your dog is to wash your soft furnishings. This is crucial because fleas love dark places and are difficult to spot. In addition to washing your soft furnishings, you should also vacuum them around baseboards to get rid of fleas.
Fleas can live on furniture, bedframes, mattresses, and rugs. Vacuuming them thoroughly will help remove flea eggs and larvae that have migrated from the pet to the environment. Use a handheld vacuum cleaner to get to hard-to-reach areas and make sure you clean the entire surface of furniture.
If you find fleas in your soft furnishings, you can clean them by washing them at high temperatures. You can also use a home-made flea spray. The spray will kill fleas inside the house and can be used on your dog as well.
Alternatively, you can use a flea trap. You can make a trap with a mixture of warm water and dish soap. The mixture will trap fleas overnight and is easy to use. It will also add a lemony fragrance to your home.
Laundering pet’s fur
Laundering your dog’s fur is crucial for keeping fleas away from your home. Washing your pet’s fur in hot water with soap can kill all stages of the flea life cycle. Drying your pet’s fur outside in the sun is another great way to get rid of fleas.
Fleas live in your pet’s fur for about two to three weeks, which makes it important to do weekly cleaning. Fleas feed on the blood of your dog and other animals. Fortunately, most pets are allergic to flea saliva proteins, so they will scratch and lick them when they bite.