Control Fleas and Ticks Without Using Harmful Chemicals
Most pet owners are all too familiar with fleas and ticks. Not all animals have a flea and tick problem, but few go their entire lives without ever being bitten by one of the pesky critters. Flea collars and pesticide treatments are usually effective at keeping them from becoming a problem, but are they really safe for our pets?
Flea and tick products often contain chemicals called organophosphates, which work by disrupting the nervous systems of the pests. Some also contain carbamates, which have a similar function. These chemicals work well, but they can also harm our pets’ nervous systems, as well as ours.
Some pet owners simply don’t think about the consequences of using such harsh chemicals. Others may believe that there is no other way to get rid of fleas and ticks. But we can control them without going to such extreme measures. Try these tips:
* Vacuum frequently during flea season. Fleas often take up residence in carpets, and a thorough vacuuming can seriously cut down on the population. Just remember to change your bag often.
* Bathe your pet often with normal grooming shampoo and warm water, and apply a natural flea preventative. You can make your own by adding two tablespoons of rosemary to two pints of boiling water. Remove from heat, let steep for 20 minutes, strain, and spray on. Let your pet dry thoroughly before allowing him to go outdoors.
* Wash your pet’s bedding frequently. Fleas and larvae are often found there.
* Mow your grass regularly in the summer as ticks are fond of high grass. Try to keep your pet out of overgrown areas.
* Eliminate any potential havens for mice around your home, as they may bring ticks in. Dispose of piles of leaves and debris, keep wood piles elevated off of the ground, and store trash in metal containers with tight lids.
* Use a flea and tick comb on your pet at least twice a week. If you’re in a hurry, try running a sticky lint roller over your pet’s head and body to pick up ticks.
* If you think you might have a flea problem in your home, use a flea trap. These simple devices use a light bulb to attract fleas and sticky paper to trap them.
* Try using nematodes to kill fleas. These parasites may be applied to soil in areas your pet frequents.
Ticks and fleas are a nuisance to us, and they’re even more troublesome to our pets. But dousing them with insecticide can be detrimental to our pets’ health as well as our own. With a few preventive measures, we can often eliminate the need for further treatment.
