By Dr. Julie Mayer
It’s that time of the year again to protect your pets from the diseases that are transmitted by mosquitoes, fleas and ticks. Depending on the population density of these critters where you live or travel, a more natural approach may be a better alternative for your pet than harsh chemicals. Here are some suggestions to keep those pesky pests away from your pets!
Topical
- Sprays and shampoos that are commercially available with the herb Neem, act as a repellent.
- Seargent’s Nature’s Guardian or Sentry Natural Defense repels fleas and ticks, are made of essential oils, and can be applied to the skin.
- Diatomaceous earth is finely ground fossils of marine life. It causes trauma to the shell of the parasite, leading to dehydration and death. It can be sprayed on pets or applied to the fur like a flea powder.
- Physically remove any ticks within 24 hours after they have attached to your pet to decrease the chances of transmission of infectious organisms.
Oral
- There are commercially available products with garlic and brewers yeast (high in Vitamin B) to repel insects.
- Diatomaceous earth can be given in the feed.
Environmental
- Diatomaceous earth can be placed around the house inside and out.
- Plant plants outside, that naturally repel insects, like citronella, lavender, geranium and chrysanthemum (the chemical pyrethrin that is in flea products is actually an extract of chrysanthemum).
- Fleabusters.com sells nematodes that you put in your yard that will prey on the young fleas.
- Cedar dog beds help repel insects.