How To Protect Your Dog From Fleas and Ticks

Try these methods to protect your pooch from pesky pests.

Instructions

• Step 1: At least once a week, wash your dog's bedding and blanket.
• Step 2: Once you've taken all of these precautions, lay newspapers on the floor and have your dog sit on them. Gently comb their fur, starting at the top of the coat. As you comb, feel under the fur for any hidden insects and remove them with tweezers. Place the newspapers and any dead bugs in a garbage bag and throw it in an outdoor trash bin.
• FACT: One traditional Mexican craft technique involves making tiny clothes for fleas and displaying the dressed-up fleas, known as _pulgas vestidas_, in small boxes.
• Step 3: Start an aggressive vacuuming schedule, giving extra attention to the rooms where your dog spends the most time. Dispose of the sweeper bag after you vacuum and replace with a fresh one.
• TIP: Some flea remedies contain toxic chemicals. Ingredients to stay away from include – but aren't limited to – permethrin, chlorpyrifos, dichlorvos, phosmet, naled, diazinon, malathion, carbaryl, and propoxur.
• Step 4: Give your buddy a regular bath with pesticide-free shampoo. After each bath, comb out the fur to remove any dead fleas or insects.
• Step 5: Consult your veterinarian to find the best combination of over-the-counter flea shampoos, powders, or sprays to use on your pet. Your vet may also offer you a prescription flea-fighting product.
• Step 6: Discourage fleas and ticks from making themselves at home by getting rid of any piles of trash, leaves, or mossy rocks in your yard. Always keep garbage cans tightly closed and as far from your house as possible. Keep firewood away from your exterior walls, too.