How to Get Fleas Off your Pets Safely

It might shock you to know that many products for killing fleas have also been linked to pet deaths.  Flea collars for one, are very risky to your pets' health, and are not really effective at killing fleas.  So, if your pet is wearing a flea collar now, get rid of it. 

The safest way to get rid of fleas on your pet is to remove them yourself.  This sounds hard, but with a well behaved pet it is not that difficult.  Flea combs are cheap.  They have teeth that are close together to grab any flea or flea eggs.  You are best to comb through your pets coat under a bright light or even outside on a sunny day.  Have a roll of sticky tape handy, every time you encounter a flea, stick it to the tape, fold the tape over and dispose if it.  The same can be done to the eggs, although they will not survive off the pet. 

Fleas tend to hang out on certain parts of your pets body, such as the belly and base of the tail.  You can find out where fleas are ususally because you will see tiny bites or flea dirt (looks like black dandruff) or the pet will be itching.  Typically if you act quick the first time you spot fleas you will not have too many problems because you catch them before they get out of control.

Vacuum your home thoroughly, wash the pet bedding, or replace it altogether.  Vacuum your sofa and anywhere the pet sleeps.  Wash any toys that might be homes for fleas or flea eggs, you can also put these items in plastic bag and store in the freezer for 48 hours.   If you have more than one pet, check them all for fleas. 

If you have a yard that the pets go out in, mow it short, and stay out of the dog parks for a while.  Fleas definately are more active in warm weather so this is the worst time to go to an area populated by other pets who may have fleas.

Another suggestion to make your pet less appealing to fleas is Brewers Yeast and Garlic.  In many places you can get tablets for pets made out of these, you may find them at stores that offer health foods for pets, or in some cases at human health foods stores (who often also carry some things for pets).  In heavy amounts garlic is said to be bad for dogs, but the small doses in these tabs are completely safe, and are said to also reduce shedding and have other health advantages.

Be aware that fleas can carry worm eggs, if you find fleas on your cat or dog, you should look into getting your pet dewormed.  

There are other products from veterinarians for controlling fleas on your pets.  This link was written mostly for people who wish to avoid using any chemicals on their pets, or who have pets at an age when chemical use is impossible and unsafe.