Fleas and ticks are a nuisance, both to your household and your dog. You can prevent them from spreading by using natural remedies or chemical products. There’s no harm in turning to the hard stuff if you are dealing with a full-blown infestation. But if you want to experiment with natural flea treatments, here are some we recommend.
Flea Comb
A practical and inexpensive solution, a flea comb is a must-have for all dog parents. They come in different sizes but try to pick one that has closely-spaced teeth as that will help remove adult fleas and eggs from your dog’s fur. When using a flea comb, make sure to dip it in warm, soapy water each time you brush your dog to kill off the fleas and eggs. This is a great first step to stop fleas from spreading and causing severe skin damage.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar has a slightly acidic pH level. This creates an inhospitable environment for ticks and fleas. Next time you see your dog scratching, mix six cups of ACV with about four cups of water and some salt and spray the solution on your dog’s coat. Make sure to avoid any open wounds they may have and their eyes. If your dog is sensitive to the smell of ACV, you can dilute the solution by adding more water. You can also spray this ACV-water mix on their collar since ticks are likely to hide around that spot.
Diatomaceous Earth
Diatomaceous earth is the fossilized remains of small organisms, which are broken down into a silica-like power. When pests and fleas come in contact with this substance, they dry out and die. Diatomaceous earth is available in two forms – food-grade and pool/filter-grade. Make sure to get the food-grade variety since it is non-toxic to dogs and humans. Sprinkle this substance on areas like carpets or the lawn and leave it for at least two days. Then, clean and vacuum thoroughly. Dispose of the contents in your vacuum canister carefully, so the fleas don’t find their way back into your house.
