Pet owners have some unique challenges that need to be overcome. Preventing or getting rid of fleas is just one of them. It’s a creepy feeling to feel those tiny little things all over you when you simply want to curl up and enjoy a movie with the family. It’s a common problem, but one that can be dealt with with a just a little perseverance.
Most people will run to the store searching for a solution or even to their veterinarian. While a vet visit could be warranted if there are serious health problems to be cared for, in most cases it isn’t needed. And you probably want to steer clear of most of the products found at the local supermarket.
The main thing that most experts recommend is something that will require you to put in some time each and everyday. But this is your pet we’re talking about, so think of it as more bonding time! You should try to comb them daily with fine-toothed flea comb. Just boil a pot of water and add some fresh lemon to it. Let it cool completely, or at least to a nice warm comfortable temperature. Then dip your comb in it and comb it through their hair.
Why lemon water? Lemons contain limonene. This is a natural chemical that’s completely safe for us and our pets, but it kills fleas and helps repel them for the near future.
The second thing that’s always recommend is, again, something that will take a little time each day. But it can really help in controlling fleas. That is vacuuming. Vacuuming the floor, your pet’s bed, the couch or anywhere else that he likes to hang out. The two important things here are 1.) consistency and 2.) that you empty your vacuum after each session and get those peskers out of your home. If you use a bagless, be sure to empty it somewhere else – not in the kitchen trash can. If your vacuum has a bag, dispose of it outside the home immediately.
- 3 to 5 drops of lavender or cedar oil
- 1 to 3 TB water Bandana (You can use your dog’s collar, but hey, the bandana looks cool!)
- * Optional eyedropper