A Healthy Dog Has No Fleas: 5 Preventive Measures to Avoid Fleas
People love to see their dogs healthy; fleas feel otherwise. There is nothing a flea hates more than a dog in great form. Studies have consistently shown that dogs with a strong immunity system and those that stick to a diet full of nutrients are highly resilient against parasites.
Here are five health boosters you can give your dog to make sure he's always in tip top shape.
Garlic
The smell of garlic is repulsive even to people. Just a hint of it is enough to keep fleas away. It also strengthens your dog's immune system, helping him fight off sickness and infections caused by parasites. It is usually combined with Brewer's Yeast in supplements to promote healthy skin and coat.
Garlic is also a powerful antioxidant therefore a good addition to an aging pet's diet. It can also lower the risk for cancer and developing tumors. It will also improve your dog's blood circulation.
How To Do It:
Only a handful of dogs will eat whole garlic. The best way to add it to his diet is by chopping it into small pieces then sprinkling it over his meal. Or if your dog is a licker and seems to like the taste of garlic, you can blend a few cloves together with a cup of water and make your own garlic juice. You can then spray or brush it on his meals, treats or chew toys.
Vinegar
Just like garlic, vinegar has a smell we would love to avoid. It's the same with fleas. The good thing about vinegar is not only does it provide a pest-repelling smell, it also makes your dog's skin acidic, something fleas completely detest. Furthermore, it maintains the shine of his fur.
How To Do It:
Give your dog a sponge bath of vinegar diluted in water. You can also pour a few drops into his drinking water.
Brewer's Yeast
It is an excellent source of B vitamins which are essential in keeping your dog's metabolism in check. Brewer's yeast is a natural flea and tick repellent which also contains thiamine that wards off mosquitoes. It is a natural immunity booster and helps improve your pet's coat and skin.
How To Do It:
There are a number of Brewer's Yeast supplements in the market. Dogs generally find it tasty. You can sprinkle it on his food or rub it on his coat.Sulfur
Sulfur is an important component of every living cell. It helps build tissues, assists in maintaining metabolism and is also essential for healthy skin, coat and joints. Studies have shown that dogs with sulfur deficiency are prone to fleas and other parasite infections.
How To Do It:
Sulfur is generally found in raw meat. Most pet owners make use of processed dog food which doesn't provide their dog's daily sulfur needs. It is therefore best to once in a while create a homemade meal for your pet, one that is meat-based. Supplements are also widely available, mostly in powdered form.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
These are essential for the skin's well-being, reducing flaking caused by dry skin and inflammation caused by parasites, strengthening the skin and making it resilient against infections. It also gives a shiny and healthy coat. Omega-3 Fatty Acids also improve the immune system and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
How To Do It:
There are a wide variety of supplements to choose from. These come in tablet and liquid forms. Adding fish oil or flaxseed oil to your dog's diet is a good start.
A healthy dog is not likely to get fleas. Keeping this in mind, we should be watchful of the diet we give our canine friends. A proper diet will not only prevent flea infestation, it will also add quality to their lives.