Flea Prevention

Flea prevention is important for the health and care of your dogs! Frontline Plus is a great flea preventative that is easily applied in between your dog’s shoulder bones. We recommend you use Frontline regularly and apply it every month as instructed. We also would like to recommend some all-natural flea preventative options:

Vinegar

Mix one cup of white or apple cider vinegar with one cup of baby shampoo or dish soap and one quart of water. Bathe your dog with this mixture once or twice a month. The vinegar’s acidity changes the pH levels of your dog’s skin and fur, making it inhospitable for fleas. 

• Coconut oil

Apply coconut oil to your dog’s skin outdoors to suffocate fleas. However, it can be difficult to maintain and isn’t a quick solution. 

• Flea comb

The teeth on a flea comb trap fleas while allowing your dog’s fur to pass through. Flea combs can also remove flea poop and eggs. 

• Lemon or orange juice

Rub the juice from a freshly squeezed lemon or orange on your dog’s fur. Do not use citrus essential oil, which can be dangerous to pets. 

• Neem oil

Neem oil is a natural insecticide that can help eliminate fleas and other pests. It has a strong odor that some dogs may find unpleasant, but it fades over time. 

Bathing Your Dog

• Lemon or Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse- Mix equal parts water and apple cider vinegar or add freshly squeezed lemon juice to water. Use this as a final rinse after a bath to repel fleas.
• Dawn Dish Soap- While not 100% natural, a small amount of Dawn dish soap diluted in water can kill fleas during bath time. Use it sparingly, as it can dry out your dog’s skin.
• Essential Oils (With Caution)- Flea-repelling essential oils like lavender, cedarwood, or eucalyptus can be diluted with a carrier oil (like coconut or olive oil) and lightly applied to your dog’s fur.
• Natural Flea Sprays- Create a homemade flea spray using vinegar and water (1:1 ratio). Spray this mixture lightly on your dog’s coat and bedding.
• Wash Bedding and Surroundings- Wash your dog’s bedding and soft toys in hot water weekly. Vacuum carpets, floors, and furniture regularly to remove flea eggs and larvae.
• Yard Treatment- Use nematodes (beneficial microorganisms) in your yard to eat flea larvae and reduce their population naturally. Spread cedar chips or plant flea-repelling herbs like rosemary and lavender around your yard.
• Dietary Supplements- Add a small amount of brewer’s yeast and garlic to your dog’s diet (consult your vet first). This can make your dog less appealing to fleas.
• Frequent Grooming-Regular grooming helps keep fleas under control and allows you to detect and address infestations early.

When to Seek Vet Help

• If your dog shows signs of flea allergies, excessive itching, or sores, consult a veterinarian for advice on natural and medical treatments.