Fleas
Fleas need not be a big problem in the life of your pet or your family. With a little knowledge and common sense you can be on your way to a parasite free environment. First of all lets deal with the little critters crawling on your little critter. Dog FleasAgain with my quest for the less toxic ways to improve a problem I have done a little research and decided I could recommend a product called Lufenuron. Ask your veterinarian. It is safe for pets, humans, and the environment. Given once a month at mealtime in tablet form, this product prevents the eggs and larvae from developing. It is nearly 100% effective. And is even safe to give puppies and pregnant dogs.It is imperative to control these parasites as they can bite humans transferring tapeworm, cause or trigger allergies (leading to your dry skin problem again), cause your pet to suffer needlessly, and just make everyone miserable. I have never had to ask the veterinarian about a flea control problem. I use special all natural product to bathe my pet in. It is completely safe and actually seems to repel parasites. Getting Rid of Fleas in Your HomeI would recommend using natural type control in the form of a borate based desiccant (you know boric acid). Most of the other products are insecticides and I just can't deposit those toxic poisons in my home or recommend them to others. The insects ingest the boratic substance and it poisons them causing death. The borate based desiccant is environmentally safe, can be used around children and pets with no problems, and is completely odorless. So do this:1. Vacuum carpets. These critters really love those carpets and will live in them (especially the larvae). Makes you want to rip out all your carpets doesn't it? Hardwood anyone? 2. Apply borate. 3. Work product into carpet with a stiff broom or carpet rake. 4. Wash or replace pet bedding. To keep the critters from coming back vacuum often. I would like to say "Don't live like a pig". But your momma probably already told you this. Make sure to vacuum and treat your upholstery too! Outside of Your Home
Only treat outdoor areas if you can detect an infestation. The cost to the environment usually does not warrant the assault of pesticides to the yard. If your pet spends a lot of time outdoors in a dog house or kennel or a favorite shady spot in the yard (these critters hate sunlight) then do treat these areas. Again try using borate desiccant, but this is not usually necessary if your dog has been properly treated for parasites. I really loved this straight forward website that I found concerning flea control. Lots of good ideas.When I found it I thought why look any further. Please read this incredibly hilarious account of one man's crusade to rid his apartment of fleas.
We have the answer to your problem with fleas.
Ticks
Ticks can attach to a canine whenever he/she goes outside such as for walks, hikes, and just for enjoyment. Ask your veterinarian if they are a problem in your area. If so you should protect your pet by a tick control product.The parasite will attach itself to your dog by inserting his mouth parts into your pet's skin. Then it will begin feeding on your dog's blood. No vampire jokes, please. This point of contact with your pet becomes red and irritated. They can cause anemia, paralysis, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, and Lyme Disease just to name a few. They can also transmit some of the same diseases to humans. Please consult your doctor if you suspect that you are hosting a tick. If you would like to try removing one of these critters yourself please get an instruction sheet from your vet. It is important to be extremely careful when removing them.
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