Pets Rock Blog

I have been ask by a reader about natural remedies for ticks and fleas. Frontline seems to irritate their dog’s skin.

The saliva of parasites contains and ingredient that irritates the skin. Some dogs have sensitive skins and should not use strong soaps or parasite repellent or  parasite-killing products.

Personally I haven’t really used natural remedies yet but I would like to try them with my next dog. I think we and our pets could all do with fewer chemicals. When it comes to animals, natural is definitely better.

I found an ad for Eco-dust in the pet classifieds. It is organic and eco-friendly and can be used on cats and dogs and their bedding. It is also available from Eco-stuff.

A company called Vondis sells all natural pet products including, skin care products and food. A natural Khakibos remedy for parasites is available from them. They also have a Rooibos remedy to relieve itchy skin.

Aloe Ferox is also recommended since it is soothing on the skin. Diluted lavender  and lemongrass oils  help to ward of both ticks and fleas. Lavender also repels mosquito and soothes the skin. Other useful essential oils are citronella, lemon, geranium and peppermint. Have a look at the essential oils labels at your health shop or pharmacy.

You can also boil fresh lemons in water,  let it cool and spray it on or put a bit of apple-cider-vinegar in the rinsing water after you bath your pet. These are probably good options to try first.

It is also suggested that your pet can ingest garlic to ward off parasites. This should how ever be giving in small doses and can be mixed into your pet’s food.

In general: Bath your pet as regularly as in recommended for the breed. Keep your pets bedding clean. Vacuum carpets regularly

If you sell natural remedies you can advertise it by placing a free ad in the classifieds.

Important Disclaimer:
Consult your veterinarian or local health shop. The information above serves merely as suggestions.

sources: mandalahealth and  PAW animal rescue

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Are you thinking of buying a kitten? You may think that getting a cat is easier than getting a dog, because cats are more independent, but like any pet a cat requires care and is a big responsibility.

Temperaments of different breeds vary, so you should choose a breed that suits your life style and environment.

Do you want a lively or a quiet cat? Do you want a cat with short hair or a long hair that requires more grooming.

Cats have an average lifespan of 10-15 years, so you will have to be willing to care for your cat for a long time.

Do you want to get a kitten or an older cat? How about giving an unwanted cat a good home. You can also adopt a cat either through a rescue shelter or directly from an owner who can no longer take care of it. You can check the pet classifieds for private adoptions.

I do not advocate buying cats from a pet shop, as with puppies from puppy mills, it is not always possible to see where the kittens come from.

If you buy a cat from a breeder you should find a reputable, responsible breeder that is registered with a cat breed club. The cat should come from good bloodlines. Many breeders advertise in the classifieds.

If you buy a cat from a private family you should see the environment the kittens come from. Is the mommy cat a pet or simply a money-making-kitten-having-incubator? If you buy from a private family the bloodlines of the kitten cannot be guaranteed and it might be a mixed breed with the father’s identity unknown.

No matter where you get your kitten from you have to see the environment the cats come from and be sure of what you’re getting yourself into. Do the necessary research to make sure that you’re getting a cat suited to you.

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