Fleas are the bane of any dog owner’s existence, particularly if they get into your house and lay eggs on your furniture and carpeting. If an infestation does occur, however, you can support your pets with several natural and non-toxic options to fight fleas and ticks. Moreover, using natural pest deterrents can also be a preventive measure to protect pets. Here are some of the natural ways to prevent fleas and ticks for your pets:
1. Plant flea-and-tick-deterring plants
Planting plants that can deter fleas and ticks is a great way to naturally protect your pet. There are plenty of natural flea-repellent plants that you can grow in your home, such as lavender, penny royal, spearmint, rosemary, sage, basil, catnip, and chrysanthemums. You can also place these deterring plants throughout your yard and by your main doors. These plants can assist in repelling fleas by secreting natural oils that discourage fleas and ticks from attacking your pets and environment. Just be sure to do your research to find out which plants will survive and grow well in your region before you plant.
2. Dish soap
To prevent fleas and ticks from getting on your dog, simply swap out your regular pet soap for an organic dish soap, such as organic rose soap or organic peppermint soap. Bathe your dog with gentle dish soap and enjoy flea prevention in dogs combined with a fantastic smell.
3. Lemon
Lemon has been widely recognized for its ability to repel fleas and ticks while also being entirely harmless to humans and pets. Take thinly sliced lemons and boil them in water. Then let the lemon and water mixture cool overnight. Place the mixture in a spray bottle and dampen the areas in your home where your pet likes spending most of their time. This should repel any fleas or ticks from infesting your pet. You can also bathe your pet in the same mixture, leaving your pet pest-free and with a fresh smell.
4. Baking soda
Sprinkle baking soda directly onto your carpet and then disturb the area by sweeping with a broom from side to side. The baking soda will dehydrate fleas and their larvae. Let the baking soda stay on the carpet overnight before you vacuum up the fleas and waste the next day.
5. Diatomaceous earth
Diatomaceous earth (DE) is a safe and natural choice to use directly on pets, inside your home, and in the yard as a flea-and-tick-repellant. DE is a fine powder that works as a drying agent or desiccant to effectively kill fleas and their larva. As such, you can spread DE on your pet’s beddings, furniture, carpets, and other places your pets spend time. DE can also be applied directly to the pet’s coat, skin, and hair; just be careful to avoid sensitive areas like the eyes, mouth, nose, and face. Let the DE dust sit for a day before you vacuum, and, if it is applied on the pet, wash it off after a day and dry out the skin.
