We all know what fleas are, those annoying, dark-colored creatures that hop on our pets when they sit or roll in the grass, visit the beach or park or stop to say hello to a fellow furry friend. Although they seem to jump as if they are flying, fleas are wingless insects capable of piercing skin and sucking blood. This in itself sounds unappealing, but add to it the potential of having these unwelcome visitors as permanent residents in your home, laying eggs, multiplying relentlessly and causing stress and potential discomfort to you and your pets. Although this is not a desirable situation, it is one many of us have experienced. In addition to this, some animals are allergic to flea saliva. This allergy can lead to more severe skin irritation that gets worse as the animals lick, scratch and bite the affected areas in an attempt to get relief. Fleas are also capable of transferring diseases between animals. It is obvious we need to keep fleas away from our pets and homes, but how do we do it? Most people have heard of the over-the-counter “spot on” treatments, such as Advantage and Frontline. Although some may have success with these, fleas can and do build up a resistance to them. If you have tried these or similar pesticides and they have not worked, now you know why! In addition to the possibility of these products not solving your problem, they are highly potent chemical pesticides. So what can we do to keep our pets safe and flea-free in San Diego County, which seems to be paradise for this pest population? Luckily, we have a number of independently owned health-conscious pet stores throughout San Diego County that offer natural alternatives to the toxic options. I have tried a variety of natural products, and found that once applied they worked great — temporarily. I also have learned that using multiple products is sometimes necessary. To give you a head start when addressing your external environment, helping your pets have a strong inner defense is essential in successful flea control. Nutritious foods and any needed supplements, along with adequate exercise, will help build and maintain a healthy immune system. Fleas prefer a weak host, as it allows them to flourish with more ease. The healthier your pets are, the less likely they are to be affected by fleas. Bathing can also help eliminate fleas on your pets, but be careful not to over-bathe them, which can lead to dry skin and other issues. A monthly bath with a gentle, natural shampoo, along with thorough water-only rinses as needed, will help in the fight against fleas. It is also important to remember that the fleas on your pet are only a part of the war to conquer. In addition to those that you can physically see, you can rest assured that there are growing flea families happily nesting in your rug, bedding, upholstered furniture and anywhere else that provides a safe place for them. I recommend very frequent vacuuming of carpet areas, as well as upholstered furniture. Immediately disposing of the used vacuum bag will help avoid reinfestation. Tomb Stone by Great Life is a spray that seems to kill fleas on contact, or at least slow them down enough so they can be picked off. I was told it is safe to spray it on bedding, furniture and any surface, as well as on your pet. With lavender being one of the main ingredients, I found that it smells pleasant, which is a plus when spraying it in and on your home environment. Citronella-based Purely Botanical Flee, Flea! by Dancing Paws is another spray that some have had great success using. Both sprays are available at Paw Country in La Mesa, www.welcometopawcountry.com. I recommend spraying the product into your hand first and then applying it on your pet. Buck Mountain Herbal Gold Parasite Dust for Animals, which is available at Point Loma Pet Pantry, www.pointlomapetpantry.com, has brought relief to many pets. I recommend applying it on your pet while either outside or in an open area. This powder can be applied directly onto your pet, bedding or furniture, as well as the carpet, and then vacuumed up. However, it is a yellowish powder and not everyone may choose to have this added to their belongings. Grocery store-purchased borax, which contains boric acid and diatomaceous earth, available at Paw Country and Point Loma Pet Pantry, are two other flea-killing powders that can be sprinkled on carpets and vacuumed up. Another option is FTI Pet Products’ Flea Treats. Both my dog and cat love these tasty tablets as treats! They contain brewer’s yeast and B vitamins and are available at Point Loma Pet Pantry, Healthy Pet Pantry in El Cajon (www.healthypetpantry.net) and Wholesome Choice Pet Market in Rancho Bernardo (www.wholesomechoicepetmarket.com). Some people swear by them. I have never used them alone, but instead as an additional precaution, along with a spray, the parasite powder and of course diligence. If you have questions about flea treatments, behavioral issues or nutrition concerns, I welcome your e-mails at [email protected]. You may wish to visit my website at www.wildtame.com to learn more about alternative and holistic approaches to pet care.