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Ways to Combat Dog Fleas Naturally

25 17:56:44

What are dog fleas?

 

A dog flea is a type of parasite that survives primarily on the blood of canines. Apart from being troublesome they are also disease transmitters. Though they live on the dog's blood, they often bite humans too. Fleas deliver approximately 4000 eggs on the fur of the host. These eggs pass through 4 stages including embryo, larva, pupa and finally imago (adult). The entire life cycle takes from 2-3 weeks, depending on the temperature. This may be longer during cool conditions.

Ways to combat dog fleas naturally

  • Essential oils: essential oils such as lavender, pennyroyal, cedar, lemongrass and peppermint oils help in fending off fleas from the dog's fur. Mix together few drops of essential oils with olive oil and apply the mixture on the base of the dog's tail or top of his neck. For best results use diluted essential oils as often these oils can turn hazardous when used in large doses. Prevent rubbing the oil in areas which canines can easily lick. This is a beneficial natural flea control for dogs.
  • Vacuuming: washing and vacuuming hard floors on a regular basis is one of the least toxic ways of controlling dog fleas. This will help in eradicating eggs, larva and most of the adult fleas. Larva does not like light, hence vacuum around baseboards and under furniture anywhere near the canine's favorite hangout place. Always make it a point to kill all fleas inside the vacuum bag or discard it after use in a tightly sealed plastic bag.
  • Keep outdoor areas clean: keep outdoor areas clean especially where dogs generally hang out. Trim weeds and lawns as well as expose any cool or moist dark spots to sunlight, else keep dogs away from these spots to prevent dog fleas. This flea control works wonders.
  • Give dogs a bath: bathing the dog with a gentle shampoo is one of the best ways to keep them away from fleas. For preventing fleas from jumping up on their head during a bath, wash the canine's neck first. Practice this thoroughly and one will probably notice few fleas floating around in the water.
  • Flea comb: use a flea comb after the dog is pat dry. Use the comb all over the canine's fur and always select one that has specially been designed for removing dog fleas.
  • Wash dog bedding regularly: washing dog bedding on a regular basis will help in eradicating eggs and larvae. In case of a blanket, firstly fold its corners for preventing dispersing any parasites while picking it up. Those using a dog bed or crate for keeping their dogs, make sure in washing them too. This is an effective natural flea control for dogs.

Follow these steps to ward off fleas from pooches naturally.