Fleas

Transcription from CFAX radio program

Question: Are there any green ways to deal with fleas?

Announcer: Joe Easingwood CFAX 1070

I actually dont recommend flea collars, there are so many more effective products now. There are hormonal products that really only work against the flea specifically and that would be program which is a tablet taken once a month. It is very easy to remember that. Program can also be combined with good quality dewormers for a full spectrum anti peracidicide program in a form of the medication called Sentinal. 

Advantage and Advantage Multi are topical products, better for dogs that dont do a lot of swimming, but good for dogs and cats that are outdoors a lot. In terms of any natural products unfortunately I am not aware of any really effective natural products. There has been lots of talk about having Penny Royal plants around, or giving brewers yeast to your dogs. I have seen dogs with very sever flea investations where those have been attempted and they have not worked. The safety of these products, but Program and Advantage lines are excellent - and I use those on my own pets as well.

Greg - I was looking for natural products, I heard garlic works?

I have heard that as well, except Garlic is toxic to dogs. You can not give garlic in fact (some homemade pet treats have small amounts of garlic). Garlic cloves and the onion family plants are toxic to dogs.

Greg - Is this a particularly bad year for fleas?

You know what I wouldnt necessaryily say because I havnt seen it as much in my practice, but we are heading into the worst time of year for fleas.

Suggest you speak with your veterinarian.