Natural Ways To Keep Fleas Off Your Dog

When the itching competition between your dog’s hind legs and parts of its skin begins, it is a sure sign that fleas have moved in and are marking territories pronto! Fleas are small irritating parasites that feed off the blood of your beloved pooch.

Although these fleas are tiny, you can easily spot them if you know where to look. They hate the light and are usually found clustered around areas with thicker fur such as inside the thighs, underneath the stomach, and around the neck.

These fleas are copper-colored and can be found scurrying all over your furry baby’s body. Another sign that your dog has fleas is by looking out for “flea dirt”. These are black spots left behind by the fleas; they aren’t dirt exactly but are feces composed of digested blood. They look like specks of pepper; if you notice this “dirt” on your dog, then it most definitely has fleas. There’s no smoke without fire.

How do I get rid of these fleas naturally?

A warm bath

Yes, you heard right. Never underestimate the power of a warm bath. With lukewarm water and a bar of mild soap, you can get fleas off your pet’s fur and skin. If you want to include a flea repellent shampoo, you may want to consult your vet first.

This is because; some of these shampoos contain chemicals that can pose a threat to the health status of your canine. Some dogs may have an allergic reaction to fleas if it has sensitive skin, and using a shampoo that contains chemicals may further irritate the skin and could lead to open wounds. Try giving your furry friend before considering any other option.

Flea Comb

This is one of the most practical and natural ways to get rid of fleas. A flea comb isn’t like the regular comb, the teeth on a flea comb are spaced just enough to let your pet’s fur pass through but tight enough to trap fleas and their eggs.

Flea combs also help to get rid of flea “dirt”. They come in different sizes and are efficient at removing fleas and ticks from your dog’s fur. When using a flea come, make sure that you dip it into soapy water to get rid of the fleas and eggs lifted out of your dog’s fur. Areas such as the neck, tail, and belly area of your Scooby should be handled with special care, these areas are usually the places where fleas feed off from.

Flea Spray

Natural flea sprays are chemical-free and are very efficient at killing adult fleas. However, it is important to note that these sprays are only a temporary solution; they can be used on your dog’s fur to safely kill fleas and can also be used around your home to prevent re-infestation.

When buying a flea spray, ensure that you buy one that is natural and has been certified safe to be used on canines. You should also consider speaking to your local vet for the best flea spray to use on your furry friend.

Flea Collars

Flea collars provide an excellent way to deliver the active ingredients needed to kill off fleas and ticks. These active ingredients are released from the collar into your pet’s fur and skin. The ingredients are slowly distributed through your dog’s body through body oils. This is a remedy that could last from six to eight months until the collars are due for a change.

Essential Oils

Essential oils are proven remedies that have been known to not only repel fleas but to kill them as well. However, they should be used with utmost caution. Consider consulting your vet on the best essential oil to use on your canine.

Essential oils are very harsh and should be properly diluted with water before use. Oils such as; rosemary, peppermint, tea-tree oils, need oil, and coconut oil is an effective flea remedy. Once diluted, they can be added to your dog’s shampoo to help repel and kill fleas.