If your dog has flea allergies, the saliva from a flea bite causes irritation to its skin. The itching can become intense, causing your dog to scratch and bite his skin. In turn, this causes open sores or lesions that may become infected. A veterinarian often treats flea allergies with injections and pills. However, you can also discuss holistic options with your vet.
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Dog Food
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According to All the Best Pet Care, a poor immune system is a cause of flea infestations. A dog with a healthy immune system is less likely to become infected by fleas and less likely to be affected by an allergy. One way to boost your dog̵7;s immune system is with a healthy diet. High-quality dog food helps your dog build up its immune system. Homemade pet food is one way of helping to boost your pet̵7;s immune system. You can make your own using cooked ground beef, turkey or ground chicken, potatoes or rice, and oatmeal, carrots or pumpkin. The cooked meat of your choosing should comprise two to three parts of the food; the rice or potatoes should be two parts of the food; and the oatmeal, carrots or pumpkin should be one part of your pet̵7;s food. You can add supplements if you desire, such as fiber, vitamins or calcium. However, before beginning a new diet, check with your veterinarian.
Garlic
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Fleas dislike the taste of garlic. By feeding it to your dog, you can repel them. Grate the garlic on your dog̵7;s food daily. If your dog will not eat the raw garlic, consider a garlic pill. Discuss garlic dosing with your vet for your dog̵7;s recommended daily amount. Although garlic is a safe and effective treatment for dogs, never give raw garlic to cats.
Herbal Treatments
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To help repel fleas from your dog̵7;s skin, consider using a homemade herbal powder. According to Natural Dog Healing, eucalyptus, rosemary, fennel and yellow dock are effective at deterring fleas. You can find these in dry form at your local health food store. Mix them in equal parts and sprinkle directly on to your dog̵7;s fur.
Witch Hazel
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According to Drugs.com, witch hazel is believed to be a natural astringent. As an astringent, it can help treat the itching and inflammation associated with flea allergies. Purchase it at grocery stores and drug stores. Either pour the witch hazel directly on your dog̵7;s skin or use a rag to dab it on. It will help soothe dry, irritated skin and will also promote the healing of sores and lesions on your dog̵7;s body.
Grooming
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Brushing your dog daily with a flea brush can help remove fleas and their eggs. Dump the fleas you remove in the toilet and drown or flush them. Also bathe your dog every few weeks using your preferred natural pet rinse. You can make your own flea rinse by placing a handful of oxeye daisies into some hot water and allowing them to steep until the mixture is cool, according to Natural Dog Healing. Then pour the mixture on your dog and allow it to sit for 15 minutes before rinsing it off. Natural Dog Healing also recommends adding yarrow flowers, mullein flowers and calendula flowers to the oxeye daisy rinse to make a stronger flea rinse. All of these flowers can be found at your local garden supply store and will help to repel or kill the fleas.
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