Fleas and ticks are two of the most common reasons why pet owners visit the vet. In order to avoid costly vet visits there are many things you can do to help stop and prevent fleas and ticks. Some of the most common symptoms include excessive scratching, hair loss, tapeworms and even excessive licking. Should your dog or pet be showing any symptoms of fleas or ticks it’s best to have it taken care of immediately.
Below are just a few simple treatments for the prevention of fleas and ticks:
1. Flea combs
The flea comb is often one of the easiest and best ways to get rid of fleas on household pets. A flea comb is much like a human comb except the teeth of the comb are very close together making it the perfect product to remove tiny pests such as fleas and ticks. They are typically pretty reasonably priced and can be used for a very long time.
2. Water vinegar mix
Another great way to remove or prevent fleas or ticks from your pet’s body is to wash them with a mix of water and vinegar. Mix equal parts of water and vinegar in a spray bottle and completely spray the dog’s body being sure to avoid any sensitive parts such as the eyes and nose as well as any open wounds. The vinegar helps to kill the fleas and the smell also helps deter new fleas from attaching to the body.
3. Tick repellent
Tick repellent is a great product especially for pets that spend some time outdoors. Tick repellent is typically very reasonably priced and very easy to use. Simply spray the pet with the repellent and allow it to dry. Many repellents nowadays are made of natural ingredients including lemon and Eucalyptus. Pet owners can even make their own repellent right at home using lemon, vinegar and other natural ingredients.
4. Flea shampoo
Another great natural flea remedy is to use flea shampoo on your pet. This is especially great if all other options have failed. Flea shampoo is specifically designed to help prevent and stop flea infestations.
5. Neem oil
Neem oil is a great natural tick remedy for humans as well as pets. For dogs it is typically safer when diluted. The best option for preventing ticks on your dog by using neem oil is to add a few drops of the oil to dog shampoo and thoroughly wash and rinse the dog. This is especially important as ticks can cause Lyme disease.
Overall there are many different things you can do for a natural flea remedy. It is important to look for the signs and act immediately if ticks or fleas are suspected. Ticks are especially important to watch out for as they can cause Lyme disease and other harmful issues. Be sure before letting pets outdoors to use a natural tick remedy or bug repellent sprays.
