Homeopathic Flea & Tick Prevention
Conventional flea and tick medications have pesticides that can cause serious side effects for dogs. Accordingly, some pet owners seek out alternative methods to treat fleas and ticks. Homeopathic flea and tick prevention is pesticide-free, and it is an alternative to traditional treatments.
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Brewer's Yeast
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Brewer's yeast is a natural supplement that comes in powder and tablet form. When combined with garlic, it becomes a natural flea-fighting mixture. Mix the yeast into your dog's food daily. The recommended dose of brewer's yeast powder is half of a teaspoon per pound of body weight. For tablets, follow the instructions on the label.
Garlic
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Since fleas dislike the taste of garlic, mixing it into your dog's food can make his blood inedible to a flea. Garlic comes in tablet form, but using a garlic clove or powder is more effective. Richard H. Pitcairn, DVM, author of "The New Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs and Cats," recommends the following garlic amounts for dogs: 10 to 15 pounds, half a clove; 20 to 40 pounds, one clove; 45 to 70 pounds, two cloves; 75 to 90 pounds, two and a half cloves; and 100 pounds-plus, three cloves.
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Sulfur
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Dietary sulfur, an essential nutrient and a component of amino acids, leaves a scent on your dog's skin that keeps fleas and ticks away. Sulfur comes in liquid or tablet form. Mix it into your dog's food daily or administer it to him orally.
Black Walnut Hulls
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Juglone, a natural acidic insecticide, is produced by black walnut trees. It drips from the leaves of the tree into the hulls of the nut. The acid from juglone inside of the hulls is what repels fleas and ticks. Black walnut hulls are sold as a liquid or in capsules.
Precautions
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Although homeopathic products are labeled as natural, they are not automatically safe for your dog. You still need to follow the proper dosages and monitor your pet after administering a homeopathic treatment. Before using any treatment, consult your veterinarian to make sure it is safe for your pet.
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References
- Photo Credit dogs in the grass image by Lars Christensen from Fotolia.com
