To combat their dog’s flea issue, many dog owners turn to commercial flea medication.
But these products aren’t always safe for your pets. In just one year, the EPA received 600 reports of deaths linked to topical flea treatments.
Fortunately, there are many ways to naturally kill fleas. Let’s take a quick look at 4 home remedies that will help you get rid of annoying pests while keeping your dog safe!
1. Naturally Kill Fleas with Apple Cider Vinegar
Many people use apple cider vinegar for preventative pest control.
Try putting 1-2 tablespoons of this superfluid in your pup’s water bowl. If your dog refuses to drink, rub some on his flea comb instead.
Not only is apple cider vinegar a great weapon against pests, but it can also balance out your dog’s pH levels. But it’s a good idea to keep it away from dogs that suffer from kidney issues.
2. Give Your Dog a Rosemary Flea Bath
Fresh rosemary is also a well-known natural flea repellant. Washing your dog with the herb can drive the pests away.
Boil 1-2 cups of rosemary leaves for 20-30 minutes, and then strain them. Pour the rest of the liquid into a container filled with a gallon of cold water.
Next, bathe your dog as you normally do, using shampoo, and rinse him off completely. Take the rosemary solution and gently pour it all over your furry friend.
3. Repel Fleas from Your Property
Your dog spends hours every day running around in the yard. But a messy yard is a great place for fleas to hide, especially during the spring and summer.
Sprinkling food-grade diatomaceous earth powder is one of the best ways to naturally kill fleas in your yard. Just keep it away from your dog’s eyes.
Nematodes are another option. These microscopic worms kill fleas from the inside. Place them in a spray tank filled with water, and then immediately spray your lawn with the solution.
4. Make a DIY Natural Flea Collar
There’s been a lot of debate about the safety of commercial dog collars. Thankfully, making an effective DIY flea collar is easy. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Bandana (or woven dog collar)
- 1 tablespoon of witch hazel
- 1 drop of cedarwood oil
- 1 teaspoon of garlic oil
- 2 drops of lavender oil
- 2 drops of tea tree oil
- 1 drop of thyme oil
- Popsicle stick
- Empty Bowl
Set the bandana aside. Use a popsicle stick to mix the rest of the ingredients together in the bowl.
Once you mix everything, place the bandana in the bowl. After soaking it for 5-10 minutes, take it out of the bowl and lay it on a towel. Let it dry for several hours, and then tie it around your pup’s neck.
Final Thoughts on How to Naturally Kill Fleas
Using the nontoxic methods outlined above helps you avoid the dangers of commercial flea products.
Once the fleas disappear from your home, focus on prevention. Wash your dog’s bedding as often as you can, and vacuum your floors on a regular basis.
