Fleas begin to become a nuisance in the spring. As it starts to warm up, they begin to look for a host. They also begin to multiply at this time. By the time summer hits, your yard may be infested with these pests, which means your pets can easily pick them up. There are many chemicals on the market that you can use to prevent fleas from infesting your pet and kill ones that have already made your pet their new home. But these chemicals can irriatate your pet’s skin and be harmful to small children who may pet or play with your pet. Fortunately, there are natural ways to control fleas on your pet. Here are a few of those natural remedies.

Vinegar

Fleas do not like the scent of vinegar. As such, one of the ways you can keep fleas off of your pet is to spray them and their belongings with a vinegar-based spray. Mix one quart of water with one cup of distilled white vinegar or apple cider vinegar. Spray your pets bedding, toys and your pets fur with this mixture. Be sure not to get any in their nose or their eyes. Repeat this process daily when working to control the pests and weekly to help keep them away.

Lemon Juice

Lemon juice helps to kill fleas and repels them in the process. If your dog or cat is infested with fleas, mix a half cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice in with 1/4 cup of their regular mild shampoo or soap. Combine with a few cups of warm water to lather up your pet and treat the pests. Allow the mixture to sit on their skin for a few minutes before rinsing the mixture off of them.

Lavendar Oil

The last way to repel fleas is to make your own flea collar. Mix a few drops of pure lavendar oil with one or two tablespoons of water. Use an eye dropper or medicine dropper to drip the mixture onto your dog’s collar or a bandana you place around their neck. The scent will repel fleas, helping to prevent your dog from becoming infested with these bugs.

If you see fleas on your pets, these natural remedies will help you to safely kill them off and keep them away. This is safer for your pet and small children in your household. However, if your pet is still hosting these nasty bugs, you may want to talk to your vet about treatments that do not contain strong chemicals or have harsh side effects.