How to Get Rid of Fleas on a Nursing Dog

Why wage chemical warfare against fleas if you can get rid of them naturally? Make sure that the flea treatments that you use are safe for a nursing dog. Instead, get rid of those critters without hurting the pups by trying some natural treatments first and only use harsh treatments if the others don't work.

Things You'll Need

  • Vinegar
  • Salt
  • Eucalyptus oil
  • Spray bottle
  • Vacuum
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Instructions

    • 1

      Ensure your house is properly cleaned when trying to fight fleas on a nursing dog. Give close attention to the carpets, which can be a fabulous nesting place for fleas year round. Vacuum often and shake smaller rugs. This is your first line of defense against fleas so that you can avoid bringing nasty chemicals into the picture.

    • 2

      Cover rugs with a layer of salt to kill the fleas and then vacuum again to get rid of the eggs naturally so that your nursing dog won't be so susceptible.

    • 3

      Keep your nursing pooch clean, making sure to wash and groom her regularly. Add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to the bath to repel the fleas. This is a natural way to keep her clean. Wash with a gentle, all-natural pet shampoo about once a week. Brush her after the washing to remove any dead fleas.

    • 4

      Dilute about 3 tablespoons of vinegar to 2 cups of water. Add the mix to a plastic spray bottle. Spray your nursing dog daily if she's plagued with fleas. Spray generously, covering every portion of her fur until damp, but without soaking her.

    • 5

      While not a holistic treatment, Capstar is also safe for use on nursing dogs and is available at your vet. It starts to work in less than 30 minutes and will safely kill all the fleas on your dog. If your dog is reinfested, you can give another treatment in 24 hours. Program is another flea treatment (taken once a month) that is safe for nursing dogs. Breakthru and Frontline are not safe for use on nursing dogs.