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Natural Alternatives: Flea/Tick/Mosquito Prevention

Jeri-Marie Contaldo
Nov 21, 2015
2 min read

I don't know about you, but I never understood putting monthly flea drops on my dog's back but not being able to touch him for 2-3 days. I would have to warn people "Hey, we put flea meds on the dog today don't touch him". And what would happen if you did touch him? You would first get the pungent odor on your skin that is near impossible to wash off. Secondly, if you or worse, a child, were to put your hand in your mouth or eyes, you would be ingesting very strong chemicals. And what about all those side effects? Seizures? Loss of Appetite? Hair loss? Even death?

Because of these reasons, I feel flea prevention companies have now turned into "internal" chemicals. This idea seems great at first: "Wow, now we don't have to worry about touching the chemicals!" but what are these chemicals doing to your dog's internal organs (some examples are lower natural immunity, liver problems, and skin issues)? And you give them these medicines religiously, once a month? There has got to be a better way.. A way free of harmful chemicals that are completely safe for not only your pet, but your family as well. But what are they? There are many internal and external parasite preventatives that you can turn to. I can say that I have used all of these either alone or in conjunction with other all natural preventatives and I would not recommend something I have no personal experience in: Internal: 1) Garlic (Raw cloves, no minced/powdered) 2) Apple Cider Vinegar (Organic, with the 'Mother') 3) Raw Food Diet External: 1) Essential Oils (lemongrass, cedar, lavender, rosemary, orange, etc) 2) Apple Cider Vinegar/Water 50/50 Mix (Organic, with the 'Mother') 3) Wondercide (All natural Essential Oil based sprays for humans, home, garden, and pets) Since Aug. 2015 Hank has been completely chemical free and we have used these preventatives with perfect results. I must add that many holistic dog owners also use DE (Diatomaceous Earth FOOD GRADE ONLY) both internally and externally (a quick Google will give you more info). I haven't listed it above because I haven't had the need to try it, even in the Mosquito infested Florida! I hope you have gained some knowledge about the typical chemical preventatives and are inclined to research more about more holistic methods. Your dog will thank you! If you have any dog related question, as always, you can ask! K9SavvyGirl