Fleas and ticks are parasites that live on dogs and are harmful to humans who live in close proximity to their pets. These parasites can transmit dangerous infections and diseases like plague and scabies. Their bites cause persistent itching that damages the skin, leading to infection. There are several chemical remedies available, but they are harmful in the long run to both dogs and humans. Herein, we discuss the top home remedies to get rid of fleas and ticks in dogs. These remedies will be safe to use and have no side effects.

Symptoms of Flea and Tick Infestation
The following symptoms in dogs are due to an infestation of ticks or fleas.

• If the dog scratches itself frequently and its fur becomes discolored and thin in patches, it could be a sign of flea or tick infestation.
• While brushing the dog, if you notice specks that are red or brown in color, they may be the larvae or eggs of ticks and fleas.
• Biting and licking of the skin is a sure sign that the dog has ticks and fleas. This leads to reddened patches and lesions.
• Hair loss in patches or alopecia is a sign of infestation.
• Whitened gums or pale gums is a sign of anemia due to serious flea or tick attack.
• Although humans aren’t subject to infestation, they can suffer redness and itching from bites. Children may also develop a fever and other symptoms.

Home remedies are your best bet to get rid of the symptoms caused by fleas and ticks in dogs.

Natural Treatments
These home-based natural remedies are great for getting rid of fleas and ticks in dogs.

• You need to know the nature and extent of infestation before you begin a treatment program.
• Explore the types of natural anti-bacterial and anti-parasitic natural products that you can either make yourself or purchase from an organic products firm.
• The available products include natural anti-flea/tick collar, washes, lotions, soaps, dips, and scrubs.
• Essential oils like citronella, eucalyptus, peppermint, tea-tree, rosemary, and other strongly aromatic oils can be mixed with water and stored in a spray bottle to use on the dog each time he/she comes in from outdoors.
• Apple cider vinegar is a natural pH balancing agent. Mixed with sea-salt or common salt, it makes an effective spray for the dog. Ensure that you don’t spray near the eyes and nose.
• Freshly squeezed lemon juice added to your normal pet shampoo makes a fragrant and effective bath shampoo.
• Neem oil has a strong and not very pleasant odor, but it is highly effective as an anti-bacterial, antifungal, and antiparasitic agent. It can be added to your regular dog shampoo or diluted with water and sprayed on.
• Coconut oil massage will relax your dog, make the coat shine and become more healthy and also repel any pesky fleas or insects that may be hiding deep under the fur.
• Vodka collars are known to be very effective in repelling fleas. Purchase a normal leather collar and soak it in a teaspoon of vodka. Wait till the alcohol dries off and then put it on the dog. This is a sure-fire way to treat fleas.
• Flea combs are effective in removing eggs, ticks, larvae, and fleas. However, you need to have the time and patience to go through the dog’s coat systematically and kill the fleas yourself.