5 natural remedies to get rid of fleas in dogs
Natural Remedies
If you have a dog at home, you’d be familiar with a flea infestation in the house. Flea infestations can get out of control and can be difficult to contain. But there are some home remedies that can get rid of fleas and provide anti-itch relief for dogs. The best part about these remedies is that they are natural and free from chemicals. So, here’s a list of home remedies that are super-effective at treating flea infestations.
- Boric acid : The use of boric acid in powder form is an ideal way to get rid of fleas from your home and furniture. You can easily spread this powder over the carpets, under the furniture, and also on the furniture. It is not toxic and does not leave any residue either. Moreover, it can help provide anti-itch relief for dogs. It has antiseptic properties that provide relief to itchy skin and skin problems in dogs.
- Natural flea collars : A natural flea collar can be used to prevent dog fleas. These collars can be made at home or purchased from the market. For a DIY natural flea collar, you can buy a nylon collar or a cotton dog collar. A teaspoon of vodka mixed with a drop of geranium or cedarwood oil can be applied on the collar. One can also mix vodka with one drop of eucalyptus oil, one drop of thyme oil, and one drop of lemongrass oil, and apply this mixture to the collar. You should reuse the collar by adding the oils again on a weekly basis or once the smell fades.
- Apple cider vinegar : When applied topically or given orally, apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a highly effective home remedy to treat a flea infestation in dogs. Spraying unfiltered apple cider mixed with water on your pet’s coat keeps fleas away. ACV also has antibacterial and anti-fungal properties that help provide relief from itching. Simply spray the created mixture on itchy spots or soak their paws in it for five minutes.
- Lemon spray : This is another effective home remedy to treat a flea infestation. Cut a lemon into quarters, pour boiling water over it, and let it steep overnight. Use this as a spray on your dog’s coat, especially around the ears, under the legs, and at the base of the tail. Never use concentrated citrus juices or any citrus essential oil, as it might be toxic for your dog.
- Coconut oil: This safe and effective method helps suffocate the fleas, thus repelling and killing them off completely. All you need to do is take a small amount of coconut oil and massage it into the dog’s skin. Make sure you do this outdoors as the fleas may leap out and stick to the furniture. An added benefit of coconut oil is that it provides excellent anti-itch relief for dogs. It also helps soothe eczema, allergies, and bug bites.