Getting Rid of Fleas and Ticks

If you own pets I'm sure you are well aware of flea and tick problems. Not all animals have a flea and tick problem, but it's rare for a pet to live their entire lives without ever being gnawed by one of the pesky critters. Are flea collars and pesticide treatments safe for pets? It's true they are usually safe and effective but...

Flea and tick products frequently contain chemicals called organophosphates and carbamates which work by disintegrating the nervous systems of the pesky critters. These chemicals work well, but a little too well. You see, they can also harm our pets' nervous systems, as well as ours.

Many pet owners just don't think about the impact of using such harsh chemicals. Some owners may feel that there is no other way to get rid of fleas and ticks. But we can control them without going to such extreme measures.

Getting rid of fleas and ticks advice:

* Vacuum frequently during flea season. Fleas often make a home in carpets, and a thorough vacuuming can truly reduce the population. But don't forget to change your bag frequently.

* 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 it steep for 20 minutes, strain, and spray on. Let your pet dry fully before allowing him to go outdoors.

* Wash your pet's bed linen 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. Clean up piles of leaves and debris, keep wood piles elevated off 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 hangs out.

Ticks and fleas are an annoyance to us, and they're even more problematic to our pets. But sponging them with insecticide can be harmful to our pets' health as well as our own. With a few protective measures, we can often dispense with the need for further treatment.

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