How to get rid of fleas without chemicals and pesticides

Fleas or ticks are annoying pests to the dog and its owner. They multiply very quickly and thrive in warm weather. A female flea can lay up to 50 eggs per day. Most of the eggs laid on the host fall off onto the areas where your dog rests or spends most of its time. The eggs hatch into larvae, and larvae transform into pupae before becoming adult fleas.

Flea/tick bites are itchy and can cause allergic reaction in some dogs. The constant scratching can result in open sores and other skin problems. Ticks can transmit tapeworm and Lyme disease to dogs.

Getting rid of fleas involves treating your dog, house and outside environment. Flea products come in various brands and forms (sprays, powders, shampoos, collars, dips, etc). Flea pesticides are toxic and can cause side effects to your dog. Be sure to read the product label and follow the instructions carefully. Natural flea remedies are safer for you and your dog.

1. Treating your dog

Bathe your dog with a natural flea shampoo such as BeFree Flea Shampoo. Then, apply a natural flea powder made from diatomaceous earth to your dog. Diatomaceous earth powder kills fleas, larvae and eggs by dehydrating them. Alternatively, spray your dog with a natural flea spray such as Triple Sure to kill adult fleas and larvae.

For skin irritations or infections from flea bites, the vet usually prescribes steroid ointments. You may want to use herbal remedies like FleaDerm as safer and alternative treatments for the skin. They can disinfect, relieve itching and pain, and promote healing of your dog’s skin.

2. Treating your house

This involves killing adult fleas and inhibiting the flea growth cycle.

Vacuum carpet, wells, cracks and crevices on floor everyday to remove adult fleas, larvae and eggs. Put some flea powder into the vacuum bag in order to kill fleas in it. After vacuuming, remove and throw away bags from vacuum cleaner immediately.

Sprinkle diatomaceceous earth or borate powder onto carpet, furniture and floor, especially corners, cracks and crevices. Or spray with Triple Sure (before spraying on carpets or furniture fabric, you may want to spot test a small area out of plain sight to make sure the essential oils do not leave a stain).

Wash your dog’s bedding in hot, soapy water once a week. Add some flea shampoo to the water. If flea infestation is severe, throw away old bedding and replace with new one.

3. Treating your yard

Treat your yard with natural flea powders such as diatomaceceous earth or borate powder.
Nematodes are effective for getting rid of fleas in the yard. Nematodes are worms that prey on adult fleas, larvae and eggs. They are safe, non-toxic and fleas cannot develop resistance against them.  You can buy nematodes from certain pet stores, nurseries or gardening stores.

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