Although there are plenty of flea and tick treatment options that effectively kill adult fleas and ticks, these products are not always safe for use. Most products contain organophosphate insecticides that effectively kill adult parasites. If these insecticides are used incorrectly or if your pet ingests even the smallest amount of topical solutions that are applied to his body, he stands a chance of developing several harsh side effects. It is therefore important to look for alternative and safer options to control flea and tick infections in dogs.
Flea and Tick Treatments Include:
- Flea and tick dips
- Flea shampoos
- Topical solutions
- Flea collars
- Flea control tablets
What You Should Avoid
Although all commercial products help control flea and tick infections, most of them cannot be used as long term solutions for parasite control. Flea collars contain harmful pesticides that shouldn't come in contact with human skin. This makes it unsafe for use around children, too. Flea control tablets also have their own side effects but they aren't as harmful as most other treatment options. However, make sure you administer tablets that are lower in toxicity.
Avoid products that contain organophosphate insecticides. While some medicines rely on insect growth inhibitors to decrease flea infections, they should be administered with caution because they still contain small amounts of chemical compounds.
Looking for Safer Options
Instead of solely depending on medicines and chemicals to treat flea infections in your pet, consider using herbal remedies or natural formulas to deal with the problem. There are several herbs that are known to ward off flea infections in dogs. Oils in particular have certain properties that prevent fleas and ticks from attaching themselves to the dog's skin. You should use these oils at least twice a week to bring flea infections under control.
Essential Oils Used for Flea Infections Include:
- Peppermint
- Thyme
- Lemongrass
- Rosemary
- Cedarwood
Tips to Control Fleas
The best and safest way to cure flea and tick infections is to use natural medications along with preventive measures. Since fleas attach themselves to your dog's body when he goes outdoors, make sure your comb the dog's fur after taking him on a walk. You should also bathe your pet with a gentle shampoo to keep his coat clean.
Fleas and ticks also lay eggs around your house. To get rid of the eggs and larvae you need to vacuum your carpets and then steam clean them. Wash your dog's bedding in hot water to kill dust mites and fleas. You should spray your outdoor areas with pet friendly chemicals to get rid of fleas. Horticultural oil is a good option.
Some pet owners choose to give their pets garlic, to keep flea and tick infections at bay. While this remedy works effectively in some pets, it may not benefit others. Since garlic is toxic when administered in large amounts, you must you caution if you want to add it to your pet's food to get rid of fleas.