How to Rid My Dog of Fleas & the Rash

Fleas are not only a problem for your dog, but a problem for you as well. Once fleas have infested your dog, most likely they have infested your home. Fleas hide in your dog's fur, in carpets, in furniture and bedding. They cause itching, rashes and even allergic reactions in both dogs and humans. The good news is that preventing and elimination of fleas and rashes caused by fleas is very possible if you are vigilant and armed with the proper tools and information.

Things You'll Need

  • Flea comb
  • Warm, soapy water
  • Oatmeal-based shampoo
  • Eucalyptus oil
  • Aloe vera or hydrocortisone ointments
  • Herbal flea powder
  • Brewer's yeast
  • Laundry soap, washing machine and dryer
  • Vacuum cleaner
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Instructions

  1. Eliminating Fleas and the Rash

    • 1

      Comb your dog daily using a fine-toothed flea comb to remove fleas from the fur. Drop the removed fleas into a dish of warm, soapy water and dispose of the fleas down the drain or flush down the toilet when finished grooming.

    • 2

      Give your dog a weekly bath using an oatmeal-based shampoo to relieve irritation and soothe the rash caused by fleas. Add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to the water used to bathe the dog to repel fleas.

    • 3

      Apply aloe vera or hydrocortisone ointments to areas of the skin where the rash is present after bathing your dog. This soothes the rash and helps to clear it from the skin. Then apply herbal flea powder to the dog's fur to further repel fleas. Herbal flea powders are widely available in natural-food stores.

    • 4

      Add brewer's yeast to your dog's food daily as a natural, internal flea repellent. Brewer's yeast may also be rubbed directly onto your dog's coat to act as a natural, external flea repellent.

    • 5

      Wash your dog's bedding weekly. Use hot, soapy water, as this kills fleas and flea eggs that are present in the bedding. After washing the bedding, dry it in a clothes dryer using the hottest setting possible, again to kill and prevent fleas in the bedding.

    • 6

      Vacuum your home every two to three days to get rid of fleas that may have infested your home and to prevent those fleas from re-infesting your dog.