I find it strange and scary that so many of the flea products sold today have warnings on them like “avoid contact with skin” or “harmful if absorbed through skin or inhaled.” In fact many of the over the counter flea and tick products may contain ingredients that could harm pets and children. With ominous warnings like those it is only natural to be wary about using these products on our furry family members. Luckily we can keep our dogs flea free without exposing them or ourselves to nasty chemicals, it just takes a little extra effort.
The first and best way to keep your dog flea-free is to make sure he is as healthy as possible. A healthy animal does not taste or smell as good to fleas and starting with a healthy and well balanced diet is key. There are all too many sub-standard dog kibble brands out there and often these are the starting point for malnutrition and vitamin deficiencies in our dog’s diets. Do your homework and find out what pre-packaged dog food or homemade/raw diet is best for you and your dog.
With a good diet as a strong base for staying flea-free, I also use a couple different products to help keep the bugs at bay.
Spring Wood Farm (www.springwoodsfarm.com) has two products I use. Their Silky Soft Dog Shampoo Bar ($4) is scented with essential oils that naturally repel ticks and fleas, and true to it’s name it really does leave fur silky soft. Plus it has a nice smell to it without being overpowering. For the times between baths, the Natural Dry Dog Shampoo & Flea/Tick Repellant ($3.75) is a handy weapon in the anti-flea arsenal. Just sprinkle it on and rub it in a little (you can use it on carpets & furniture too).
For days that we’re heading outside where there’s a high chance of exposure to fleas & ticks I use the Ark Naturals Neem “Protect” Spray (www.arknaturals.com, $10.95). Neem has long been used in Ayurvedic medicine and is well known for its many beneficial medicinal uses. It’s also now being used for its ability to successfully repel insects, including fleas. The Neem “Protect” Spray is good for helping to get rid of existing infestations and preventing future flea problems. It does have a pretty strong citronella smell – something to consider if you’re sensitive to citronella.
Fleas aren’t just on your dog. In fact they spend most of their time elsewhere and just jump on your dog when they’re hungry. This means that you need to treat your whole house. Your carpet, furniture cushions and any pet bedding are prime areas for fleas to hide.
Regularly wash everything you can (especially pet bedding) in warm or hot water.
I also recommend frequently vacuuming and immediately disposing of the vacuum bag – empty the vacuum outside and throw the vacuum bag away in a sealed plastic bag (otherwise the fleas will just jump right out of the vacuum and continue to be a nuisance).
For carpets and non-washable items try using Diatomaceous Earth (also known as DE). DE is a powder comprised of micro-skeletons of deceased diatoms (very small hard-shelled sea creatures). DE kills mechanically, not chemically by causing abrasions in the insect’s body leading them to quickly dehydrate and die. I strongly recommend finding a natural or food-grade DE (not the type of DE used in pool filtration systems). You can also use DE outside in the yard. Just make sure to follow the instructions and any label warnings.
These are just some of the many alternative ways to treat flea problems without using nasty chemicals. Now you can enjoy a healthier, and safer flea season!
Cat owners: Please note that flea & tick products made for dogs are not necessarily okay to use on cats, particularly any product that contains essential oils.
