SALT LAKE CITY -- Fleas and ticks can make a dog miserable and they do nothing for its owner's peace of mind as well. Instead of running out and purchasing a chemical flea collar or preparation, which can cause allergic reactions in a pet and family members, consider these natural alternatives recommended by the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association first.

Sour expression: Vinegar is a great multi-purpose repellent. Use organic apple cider vinegar as a final rinse in a dog’s bath or dampen a cloth and apply directly to coat. Another tried and true recipe is to put one part vinegar, one part Avon’s Skin-So-Soft and two parts water in a spray bottle for a quick, prophylactic spritz.

Not just for vampires: Garlic is a great natural remedy for repelling fleas (and, possibly, everyone else as well). Fortunately, most dogs love the taste. Just add one minced clove daily for every 10 pounds the dog weighs. An alternative can be to mix in a capsule of a garlic supplement as well.

Tea time: A small addition to the bathing ritual can also include a eucalyptus tea rinse. Brew up a strong solution of four tablespoons of dried eucalyptus leaves simmering in one quart of water for five minutes. Cool to room temperature and use as the final rinse.

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How do you deal with fleas?

Tell us what remedies you have found that work well to rid your canine of fleas.

Give’em the brush off. Though it can be time-consuming, simply combing out the fleas can work as well. Flea combs are specially designed to do the job. The fleas must be killed immediately when they’re removed, however. Prepare a bowl of warm, soapy water to dip the comb into between groomings.An ounce of prevention: To keep pests away to begin with, a natural spray can be used. Take one cup of distilled witch hazel and add ½ teaspoon citronella essential oil, ½ teaspoon eucalyptus essential oil and one teaspoon lavender essential oil, which all of these can be found at a health food store. Combine and put in a spray bottle. Use once a day, but using caution to avoid the eyes.

Heat things up: Even if the fleas have been eradicated from the pet, examine their surroundings as well. Make sure to wash the pet’s bedding once a week in hot water and place in a hot dryer.

A clean sweep: Vacuum the house thoroughly, including drapery and furniture, and then dispose of or empty the vacuum bag outside to prevent re-infestation.

Tweezer pleaser: When finding a tick while examining your dog’s coat, don’t pull it off with tweezers. Try and douse it with kerosene or olive oil and it will likely “back out” on its own.

Or, if you’d prefer that someone else do the work, there are always a number of commercial preparations that can be purchased that will help limit chemical exposure where pets are concerned.

Kim has written for magazines like LDSLiving, the Washington Family, Back Home, Parents & Kids, and Natural Life. She has two novels with Covenant Communications. Visit her at www.kcgrant.com.

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