The infestation of Ctenocephalides canis, better known as the dog flea, is a big problem for dogs and their families during the warm weather in many parts of the country. Instead of using harsh chemicals, fleas can be controlled using natural home remedies. This is a much safer method for your dog and for your entire family.
Natural Home Remedies #1 – Apple Cider Vinegar
Create a mixture of half apple cider vinegar and half water. After bathing your dog, pour this onto the coat as a final rinse. Pour the remainder into a spray bottle and spray your dog’s coat daily. Add a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar to your dog’s water bowl and to his food bowl. Fleas do not like an acidic environment.
Natural Home Remedies #2 – Diatomaceous Earth
Diatomaceous Earth is a powder that consists of the fossilized remains of diatoms which are hard-shelled algae. Sprinkle diatomaceous earth outdoors in your yard and indoors on your carpeting after vacuuming. This powder causes fleas to dehydrate and die in about 48 hours. Diatomaceous Earth is sold in various grades; make sure you use the food grade.
Natural Home Remedies #3 – Borax and Salt
After vacuuming, sprinkle a 50/50 combination of 20 Mule Team Borax and regular table salt on your carpets. This also dehydrates fleas and helps prevent their eggs from hatching. Leave on for a few hours and then re-vacuum the area. Make sure you remove and discard your vacuum bag afterward.
Natural Home Remedies #4 – Garlic
Add a small chopped up clove of garlic to your dog’s food bowl. Alternatively, a quarter teaspoon of garlic powder may be used. The garlic smell that is excreted from your dog’s skin and coat will act as a flea repellent.
Natural Home Remedies #5 – Brewer’s Yeast
Brewer’s yeast, in powdered or pill form, is another food additive used in the treatment of fleas. In addition to repelling fleas, brewer’ yeast also contains vitamins for your dog’s health. Most dogs love the taste.
In addition to these home remedies, you should also comb your dog’s coat with a flea comb once a day. A flea comb is is a comb with very fine teeth which can trap any remaining fleas in your dog’s coat. Have a cup filled with water and dishwashing liquid nearby. If you see any fleas in the flea comb, quickly dunk it into the soapy water. Any fleas in the comb will die.
It is important to treat the environment (both indoors and outdoors) and the dog at the same time. These natural home remedies are usually very successful. Your flea problem will usually be gone within 3 to 4 weeks. But remain diligent as new fleas can quickly take the place of the ones that you have eliminated.
