If your pet dog is more intent on scratching his ear than wagging his tail on meeting you, you've got a problem. The pesky flea has entered your house and is not only going to pester your pet, but is sure to deliver a bite or two to the family members too. So, it’ll be in your interest to know about fleas and learn about dog flea natural remedy.

The flea menace

A flea is basically an insect, a real ugly one at that! It not only prefers the cozy fur of your pet, but may also live off humans too! Although, fleas generally exist in the sand or tall grass, they jump on your pet at the first opportunity. Once lodged in the fur, they lay eggs, which may fall off onto the carpet, into the crevices of furniture and wherever your pet chooses to lay, sleep or spend time. Fleas, being parasites, suck their host's blood to give itchy red bumps. The danger is that they can infect your pet and you with diseases.

Home remedy for getting rid of flea

If you've ever battled fleas you'd know that once they infest the home, control can be difficult, time-consuming and expensive. This battle generally starts by mid to late summer and most often proves a losing one, because a flea-infested dog or cat can contribute hundreds of flea eggs into your home each day. However, a little alertness and care on your part can help prevent this occurrence:

a. Vacuum all carpets and furniture at least twice a week, even before you spot a flea.

b. Wash rugs and floor mats regularly with hot water or in the washing machine. Dry each thoroughly to avoid humid breeding ground for these bugs.

c. Wash the bedding and clothes used by your pets thoroughly and preferably put them out in the sun for drying.

Home remedy for flea control

Sprays and chemicals are generally not safe to use around the house. However, home remedies for flea are always safe. Some suggested ones are:

a. Brewer's yeast: Feeding brewer's yeast to your pet will make his blood taste yucky to the fleas. This should be fed all throughout the flea season, that is, from March to September.

b. Garlic powder: This is a good supplement for brewer's yeast. This also makes the blood unappetizing. 

c. Combing: Comb your pet with a fine toothed comb and keep a bucket of soapy water handy. Run the comb through the hair and quickly hold it down in the bucket. Now, with your nails, scrap the fleas off the comb. The soapy water will drown the fleas.

d. Natural oils: Mix neem oil, emu oil, jojoba oil and extra virgin olive oil with a few drops of tea tree oil. To this, add a tablespoon of golden seal extract and top it up with organic white vinegar and water.  Mix them well and massage it into the fur. Don't rinse and repeat once or twice a week, depending upon the flea outbreak.

e. Topical treatment: To a glycerin base, add lemongrass oil, grape seed oil, eucalyptus oil and citronella oil. It helps eliminate fleas.

f. Vinegar: It’s a quick remedy for flea bites. Apply a mixture of vinegar and water using a cotton ball on the affected skin. Be careful not to let it enter the pet's eyes and ears. However, use only organic white or red vinegar and not the one made from wood pulp.

If you’re a pet lover, fleas will remain an integral part of your home! So, instead of getting all worked up, it’s best to find natural and effective homemade remedy for flea control and flea bit remedy too. However, do consult your vet before you take any action.