When your dog has a severe flea infestation, it's time to take him to the veterinarian for treatment and find a way to control the flea problem at home, as well. The flea infestation on your pet might stem from large numbers of fleas in your yard rather than in your house. If this is the case, you have several good options for outdoor flea treatments that avoid dispensing potentially dangerous synthetic chemicals onto your lawn and garden. This article examines three excellent natural choices for treating outdoor flea problems.
Worms
It may seem strange to fight fleas with worms, but this is actually a good idea if the right kinds of worms are used. The worms in question are called nematodes. They are not the typical type of worms that you see crawling through your grass but are, instead, microscopic in size. Nematodes, which you can purchase at home and garden centers, attack fleas and kill them within 48 hours. The microscopic organisms are typically sprayed onto any affected areas. Focus your efforts on any outdoor area where your dog likes to spend time, such under a favorite bush or tree. Also, spray the product on any places where fleas tend to congregate, such as crawl spaces.
Powder
Another good choice is to use a substance that exists in nature known as diatomaceous earth. This substance comes in powder form and is deadly to a wide range of insects, including fleas. Diatomaceous earth works by drying out the flea's body. It must be dry to be effective, however, so do not spread the powder over your lawn or garden on rainy days. Diatomaceous earth is not harmful to mammals, so there is no need to worry about it harming your pet. It might irritate your eyes or throat slightly while you are spreading it on the yard, however, so you may want to use a face mask.
Ladybugs
It's also possible to get rid of yard fleas by using a natural predator that preys on them: ladybugs. Each ladybug in your lawn can eat up to 50 fleas per day, according to PetMD. Purchase some of these beneficial insects from a local nursery or garden supplier and release them in any spots with flea infestations.
Getting rid of your dog's fleas permanently is sometimes more complicated than simply obtaining a flea medication from the veterinarian. If you have an outbreak of fleas on your property, try these natural treatments for outdoor flea control. They just might help you solve your pet's flea troubles for good.
For more advice or assistance, consider contacting a professional like those at the Kenmore Veterinary Hospital.
