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Flea ControlOverview
If you own a dog, you know that fleas can be a common problem year round. And if they get in the house, they can really become a nuisance. There are several ways to go about treating and curing fleas in dogs that include over-the-counter store bought products, vet-prescribed products and natural home remedies.
Check With Your Vet
First, before deciding on any flea treatment, check with your vet. He will be able to offer the best direction in curing your dog's fleas. He will advise the best method based on the size and breed of dog. He may also consider any allergies that your dog has. In addition, age is also a consideration. Many flea medications are not suitable for puppies who are eight weeks and under. And, if you decide to purchase over-the-counter products, make sure that you read and carefully follow any directions and adhere to any warnings.
Over-the-Counter Products
There are many over-the-counter products available when it comes to treating and curing fleas. They range from flea collars and shampoos to flea sprays and powder. Some of the more recent and most popular products are topical on-the-spot solutions such as Frontline and Advantage. These on-the-spot solutions need to be applied every month. They come in small packets and are applied directly to the dog's skin. These products dissolve on the dog's skin and working over the dog's body. Both products are also waterproof. They can be somewhat costly, but are proven to be very effective.
Vet-Prescribed Products
These are flea treatments that can only be used with a vet prescription. Many of these products come in pill form and are ingested. They work from the inside out. These are typically recommended to work in conjunction with other flea products such as a topical treatment or for dogs that are highly infested. For example, Sentinel is administered in pill form. It works to prevent heart worm and control flea populations. Sentinel contains Luferon which works by preventing the linking of a chain of molecules in the flea called Chitin (KI-TIN). It is stored in the dog's body fat and released over the course of approximately 30 days. There are no known side effects and it has been proven to be safe and effective.
Flea Combs
Flea combs are a good natural remedy. This will give you an idea about just how infested your pooch is. Gently pull the comb through the various parts of your dog's hair, first concentrating on areas around the ears and tail. You will capture the fleas and even eggs in the teeth of the comb. You should then soak the comb in soap water for a few seconds to kill the fleas after each comb through. Repeat this process until you have combed through all areas of your dog.
Other Natural Remedies
Other natural remedies include giving your dog a soapy bath using Dawn dish liquid. The dish liquid suffocates the fleas and keeps the eggs from sticking to the hair follicles. Let the soapy mixture sit on your dog for about five minutes before rinsing.
Non-Toxic Flea Sprays
Homemade flea sprays are also easy to make. Take 600ml of water and add 2 drops of pure lavender essential oil and 2 drops of pure cedar wood essential oil. Place the mixture in spray bottle and shake it well. Spray all areas of your dog after bathing. In addition, other holistic remedies include items made with lemongrass, peppermint, thyme, rosemary and garlic. Again, make sure to check with your vet first before trying any one remedy in particular.
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