Lehigh Valley Dog Walker Has Alternative Flea Treatments That Are Safe For Dogs

Let’s face it, fleas are no fun. Once the little parasites invade your dog (and your home), it can take a lot to get rid of these pests! Most dog owners are diligent and keep their pets on flea preventives, whether they are chewable or topical. A top concern for dog parents when using these products is safety. After findings that certain flea preventatives can be dangerous for dogs, many dog owners are wondering what other remedies work to prevent fleas from getting on your dog and into your home.

Simparica, for example, is a flea preventive that can cause neurological issues with dogs. There are other side effects as well including:

• Vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy
• Tremors and twitching
• Inability to control their bladders

Yikes! That doesn’t sound like fun for your dog at all!

Luckily, there are holistic flea treatments available that will keep the little pests away from your dog and out of your home.

Diatomaceous Earth:

This is a powder made of shards of silica, which cuts through an insect’s exoskeleton, effectively drying them out and resulting in death. It may be used as a component of flea control on carpeting, bedding (prior to vacuuming or laundering), or outdoors. Food-grade diatomaceous earth may also be applied directly to pets, but it may dry the skin and has the potential to be an eye and respiratory irritant. As always, follow directions on the product for safe use.

Garlic:

Used both internally and externally, garlic has been used as an insect repellent. Some sources suggest that garlic in a dog’s diet leaves them distasteful to insects. Please note that garlic can have toxic effects in dogs at high doses (please do not use more than one clove per 50 pounds). Garlic is not recommended for use in cats, as it can be toxic to their systems.

Wash Bedding Regularly:

Fleas live and breed in dark, damp places. If your dog gets wet and lies down in his bed, this will make a breeding ground for fleas. Your dog’s normal spot to lay (his bed) can also hold fleas if your dog already has them, or brings them in from outside. Washing the bedding weekly can help prevent the spread of fleas in your home.

Flea Combs:

Once your pet has fleas (ugh!) using a flea comb can be very beneficial in treating fleas. Comb through their underbelly, chest, head, neck, and tail to grab those suckers off your pet! Bathing your pet is also key to preventing fleas and killing off any existing pests.

As a Lehigh Valley dog walker, I wanted to spread the word about natural flea prevention.

If you choose to use any type of flea prevention, please consult with your veterinarian and understand that there are side effects to any type of oral or topical preventative.

What type of flea prevention do you use? How do you keep fleas off of your pets? Let us know what works for you!