Fleas are a nuisance not only to the dog, where they reside, but also to those around the canine. There are many over-the-counter treatments that eliminate fleas, but many are harsh and have unhealthy side effects. Rather than solving the problem after it occurs, many pet owners are trying to prevent the issue naturally by feeding foods and supplements to their dog that will keep these annoying insects away.
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Feed an All-Natural, Healthy Diet
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An easy way to prevent fleas from inhabiting your canine is to feed her an all-natural, healthy diet. A dog who is healthy and has all of its nutritional needs met will not become affected by fleas, according to Dr. Jeanette Thomason, a veterinary naturopath. The presence of fleas on a dog is usually a sign of poor health and nutrition. Fleas are attracted to dogs who are weak and whose immune systems are not fully functioning. Dogs who have these compromised immune systems are not able to fight off fleas as well as a dog who is healthy. A dog who eats a healthy diet that is filled with nutrition is less likely to have a flea problem.
Dr. Thomason recommends feeding dogs raw diets that are loaded with fresh ingredients. One such diet is the biologically appropriate raw food (BARF) diet. If raw diets are not possible, she suggests a homemade cooked diet that contains supplements. The last options are raw, dehydrated commercial diets, like KrunCheros, or organic dog food that excludes grains and potatoes, such as Rubicon and ZiwiPeak. Whichever diet you prefer, it is important that it is low in sugar. Fleas typically like the taste of blood that contains a high amount of sugar.
Natural Supplements
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The use of probiotics and digestive enzymes can help deter fleas from your dog if he has a food allergy. Dr. Thomason suggests that these supplements can help to alleviate the problems that are associated with food allergies that affect some dogs who are fed commercial diets. Giving your dog these supplements may help to boost her immune system, therefore preventing fleas.
Adding organic, unfiltered apple cider vinegar to your dog's water is another method that can keep pests away. In addition, adding B-complex vitamins, trace minerals, garlic, burdock root and zinc to your dog's diet can also help to deter the pests. The dosage of these supplements depends on the weight of your pet. Speak with your herbal supplier or a holistic veterinarian about what is appropriate for your pooch. It is important to note that, in general, supplements usually take some time before they become effective. Expect the products to take four to six weeks to start working.
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