Fighting Fleas by Cindy Froslie As anyone who lives in this area knows, fleas are a serious problem. Chemicals and drugs are the most frequent weapons used but at what cost to the health of your dog and you? The following ideas are a few natural, non-toxic suggestions to help make your home, yard, and dog less attractive to fleas. These will not eliminate an existing problem but will hopefully help keep one from starting. Supplement your dog's diet with Brewers Yeast. This is supposed to make your dog taste unpleasant to the fleas. It does not work immediately so give it a month or two. Sprinkle Borax powder on your carpets, let sit 30 minutes and vacuum. You can also mix Borax and baking soda (half and half) to add a natural rug deodorizer. Remember to change your vacuum cleaner bag often and carry the bag outside to the can. Fleas can live in the bag. Add Borax to your laundry, especially when washing your dog's bedding. Make a grooming spray of a few teaspoons of dog conditioner, 2-3 drops of eucalyptus oil (or oil of penny royal), and water. Use daily on your dog before brushing. Fleas are supposed to be repelled by the smell of eucalyptus. Comb your pet DAILY with a flea comb. (This is not difficult with a well groomed coat.) Pay particular attention to the rump area, the belly, and under the legs. If you see fleas or flea dirt (resembling poppy seeds) you have the start of a problem. Flea combing daily can keep you on top of the situation. Use a chemical spray to kill the fleas on the comb. Spread Nematodes (a natural flea treatment, available at lawn and garden centers) in you yard. If your dog does have fleas or has itchy, red skin, sprinkle Gold Bond Medicated Powder on the red area (as long as the skin is not broken). This will help relieve your dog while you are eliminating the problem. Remember: It is easier to prevent a flea problem than to cure one.

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