How to treat a dog for fleas with wormwood decoction? - briefly
Prepare a decoction by boiling 1 g of dried wormwood in 100 ml of water for 15 minutes, strain, and dilute to roughly 5 ml per kilogram of the dog’s weight. Administer the mixture orally once daily for 7–10 days, optionally applying a lightly dampened cloth with the same solution to the coat to increase flea exposure, and observe for any adverse reactions.
How to treat a dog for fleas with wormwood decoction? - in detail
Treating a canine flea infestation with a wormwood decoction requires precise preparation, correct dosing, and careful monitoring.
Prepare the decoction by measuring 30 g of dried Artemisia absinthium (common wormwood) and placing it in a pot with 1 L of cold water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes. After simmering, remove from heat, let it cool to room temperature, and strain through a fine mesh. The resulting liquid should be stored in a clean, airtight container and used within 24 hours.
Administer the infusion orally in divided doses: 5 ml per 10 kg of body weight, given twice daily for five consecutive days. For a 20‑kg dog, this equals 10 ml per dose. Ensure the dog drinks the full amount; if the animal refuses, mix the dose with a small portion of wet food.
Observe the following safety measures:
- Verify the dog is not pregnant, nursing, or under six weeks of age; wormwood can be toxic to these groups.
- Conduct a preliminary health check: assess liver and kidney function, and rule out known hypersensitivity to Artemisia species.
- Keep the animal hydrated; provide fresh water at all times.
- Record any adverse reactions such as vomiting, diarrhea, excessive salivation, or lethargy. Discontinue treatment and consult a veterinarian if symptoms appear.
Effectiveness depends on eliminating adult fleas and preventing egg development. Complement the decoction with environmental control: wash bedding at 60 °C, vacuum carpets daily, and treat the home with an approved insecticide.
After the five‑day course, re‑examine the dog for live fleas. If any are present, repeat the treatment for an additional three days, observing the same dosage and safety guidelines. Maintain regular flea checks every two weeks for one month to confirm eradication.