How can you get rid of fleas on a dog using folk remedies? - briefly
Apply diatomaceous earth to the dog’s coat, sprinkle a diluted apple‑cider‑vinegar solution, and comb daily with a fine‑tooth flea comb. Follow with a lemon‑juice‑and‑water spray, let it dry, then brush to remove remaining insects.
How can you get rid of fleas on a dog using folk remedies? - in detail
Flea infestations can be controlled with time‑tested household ingredients that disrupt the insects’ life cycle without chemicals. Effective natural treatments rely on direct contact, repellant properties, and environmental sanitation.
Before applying any remedy, bathe the dog with a mild shampoo to remove debris and reduce the number of adult fleas. Dry the coat thoroughly, then proceed with the selected folk solutions. Consistent application for at least two weeks is necessary to break the breeding cycle.
- Sprinkle a mixture of diatomaceous earth (food‑grade) onto the dog’s coat, rub gently, and leave for 10‑15 minutes before brushing out the powder. The fine silica particles damage the exoskeleton of fleas, leading to dehydration.
- Prepare a spray of diluted apple cider vinegar: combine one part «apple cider vinegar» with three parts water, add a few drops of lavender essential oil, pour into a spray bottle, and mist the fur lightly. The acidity creates an inhospitable environment, while lavender deters crawling insects.
- Apply a paste of baking soda and coconut oil (equal parts) to the skin folds and paws. Allow to sit for 30 minutes before wiping away. Baking soda neutralizes odor that attracts fleas; coconut oil suffocates them.
- Use a rinse of boiled chamomile tea, cooled to room temperature, to wash the coat after each treatment. Chamomile’s mild anti‑inflammatory properties soothe irritated skin and act as a secondary repellent.
Environmental measures complement topical applications. Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and bedding daily; discard the vacuum bag or clean the container with hot water. Wash all dog linens in hot water (≥ 60 °C) weekly. Sprinkle diatomaceous earth in areas where the pet rests, leaving it for 24 hours before vacuuming.
Monitor the dog’s condition daily. If excessive scratching, redness, or signs of secondary infection appear, discontinue the folk regimen and seek veterinary advice. Combining these traditional methods with rigorous cleaning typically reduces flea populations to negligible levels within a fortnight.