10 Foods to Keep Your Dog Flea and Tick Free
If you're like most pet owners, keeping your pup healthy is your number one priority. But with the recent extreme climate changes, protecting your dog from fleas and ticks is more crucial than ever.
If you're like most pet owners, keeping your pup healthy is your number one priority. But with the recent extreme climate changes, protecting your dog from fleas and ticks is more crucial than ever.
Flea bites can cause skin irritations in dogs, which can lead to other health problems - not to mention ticks are vectors for Lyme disease. Here are ten foods to keep fleas and ticks from getting a hold of your furry friend.
The scent of rosemary is one of the best natural repellents for fleas. Research has shown that the essential oils in rosemary can repel fleas for up to several months. It's important to note that rosemary should only be used on dogs with flea allergy dermatitis and not on pregnant or nursing dogs or puppies. Rosemary does not affect ticks, but it repels and kills flies, gnats, and mosquitoes.
Garlic (fresh or powder) is a natural flea and tick repellent. It is believed to work by repulsing animals who might be looking for a blood meal from your dog. Additionally, garlic contains sulfur compounds which can act as an insecticide and keep fleas and ticks at bay. You can use garlic powder or fresh cloves; add it to your dog's food or rub it on the skin. Your dog will smell like garlic for a few days, so you may have to spend some time away from friends if their sense of smell is not accustomed to eating this spice.
Apple cider vinegar might not be the first thing you think of when you want to keep fleas and ticks away from your dog, but it is a natural way to prevent fleas and ticks from getting down there. Mix a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar into your dog's bowl if/when you can't identify the source of that unpleasant odor. Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid, which is known to repel insects and rid them from your pet's fur. Be careful with the type of vinegar - don't use white or malt-based varieties, and make sure it is not flavored or distilled.
Basil is known for its antibacterial properties that repel flea and tick infestation. Mix some chopped basil leaves into your dog's food or rub the leaves on the skin from time to time. This will provide a safe alternative to vinegar or garlic, which can easily be used too often.
Buttermilk has numerous health benefits for humans and dogs alike. Buttermilk is rich in calcium and improves the immune system. It is known to keep fleas and ticks at bay. Just mix a cup of buttermilk into your dog's bowl once in a while to taste its effectiveness.
This ancient herb contains active ingredients known to repel fleas and tick off your pet's skin. Gotu kola is available in capsules or dried leaves, which can be mixed with your dog's food.
This is a good choice to keep your pet's skin free of ticks. Brewer's yeast can be added to your dog's food when you think fleas and ticks are present. It is also available in capsule form and can occasionally be added to the food.
Marigold's bright yellow petals are believed to be effective against ticks. You can easily add them to your pet's food. Another option for marigolds is the oil of marigold flowers, which effectively kills fleas.
Borage improves liver function and protects dogs' skin from various pests, including fleas and ticks. Borage oil is available in capsule form and can be added to your dog's food as often as possible.
This vibrant green leaf is widely used for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and also repels fleas and ticks from getting onto your dog. Chop eucalyptus leaves into small pieces and mix them with your dog's food every other day to help repel fleas and ticks naturally without any side effects.
In conclusion, this list is an excellent start to keeping both fleas and ticks at bay. You can mix and match any of the foods listed above to help ensure your pup stays flea and tick-free all year.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional consultation or advice related to your health or finances. No reference to an identifiable individual or company is intended as an endorsement thereof. Some or all of this article may have been generated using artificial intelligence, and it may contain certain inaccuracies or unreliable information. Readers should not rely on this article for information and should consult with professionals for personal advice.