How can I get rid of fleas on a dog using home remedies? - briefly
Give your dog a bath with warm water and a mild dish‑soap or diluted apple‑cider‑vinegar solution, then comb the coat with a fine‑toothed flea comb and sprinkle a mixture of equal parts baking soda and salt on bedding and carpets, vacuuming after a few hours. Repeat the process every few days until no fleas are observed.
How can I get rid of fleas on a dog using home remedies? - in detail
Fleas infest a dog’s coat and skin, causing irritation and possible disease. Effective home‑based control relies on a combination of environmental sanitation, topical treatments, and dietary support.
First, treat the animal directly. Apply a saturated solution of white vinegar (1 part vinegar to 1 part water) to the fur, focusing on the neck, tail base, and underbelly. Vinegar disrupts the insect’s exoskeleton and repels further bites. Follow with a paste made from baking soda and water; rub gently into the skin, let it dry, then brush out with a fine‑tooth comb. The abrasive action removes adult fleas and eggs.
Second, cleanse the living area. Wash all bedding, blankets, and toys in hot water (minimum 130 °F) and dry on high heat. Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and cracks daily; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately to prevent re‑infestation. Sprinkle food‑grade diatomaceous earth on carpets and pet sleeping spots, leave for several hours, then vacuum thoroughly. The microscopic silica particles damage the flea’s outer layer, causing dehydration.
Third, incorporate dietary measures. Add a teaspoon of ground pumpkin seeds to each meal; the natural oils act as a mild insecticide when ingested. Provide omega‑3‑rich fish oil to improve skin health, reducing flea‑related itching and limiting secondary infections.
Fourth, monitor and repeat. Conduct a flea comb inspection twice daily for one week, removing any captured insects. Reapply the vinegar spray every 48 hours until no live fleas are observed. Maintain environmental cleaning routines for at least four weeks to break the flea life cycle, which can extend up to three weeks from egg to adult.
Finally, observe for adverse reactions. If the dog shows excessive redness, swelling, or lethargy, discontinue home measures and seek veterinary assistance. Proper execution of these steps can eradicate fleas without resorting to chemical products.