Fleas

Our first question asks about non-toxic flea control methods. There is a wealth of information available on the subject, but to be brief:

Common methods of flea control and prevention include the use of pesticides, particularly DDVP (dimethyl dichlorovinyl phosphate) and Sevin (carbaryl) which work by attacking the nervous system. Unfortunately these chemicals may attack your pets as well as the fleas. Additionally, exposure to these chemicals may build up a tolerance in the fleas, resulting in a need for even nastier pesticides in the future. We strongly recommend avoiding these products.

If your pet has fleas, the first step is to vacuum thouroughly. Vacuum the floors, corners, upholstery, sofa cushions, under the couch, anywhere a flea might be hiding. Immediately burn the vacuum bag or at least seal it securely to prevent the captured fleas from escaping. Repeat this process frequently. Be sure to wash all throw rugs, bedding and other materials that your pets may sit/sleep on in hot water. Sprinkle diatomaceous earth on the carpet—as well as outside on your lawn, under bushes and in shady areas—to kill any remaining fleas on the ground. Finish up by bathing your pet followed by a thourough flea combing.

There are several options for maintaining a flea-free zone:
- Feed your pet one clove of garlic a day
- Add a touch of vinegar to your pet's water (may also help control mange)
- Saltwater baths may discourage fleas
- Flea traps also have been known to work well. A flea trap is a light held about 6 inches from a dish of water with a small amount of detergent mixed in. The flea is attracted to the light, fall into the bowl and drown. Flea traps are also available for purchase at many locations that use a "capture" pad instead of a bowl of water if you prefer.

Flea infestations should be taken seriously. Besides the risk of allergic reaction, fleas also carry the bacterium that causes bubonic plague and can carry tape worms.

Welcome

Winter has hit, and with it the rains and resultant influx of ants into kitchens across northern California. Before reaching for poisons, which seem to only work on ourselves and our pets anyway, we'd like to encourage you to use this forum to seek information regarding non-toxic alternatives to dealing with your pests. From ants to fleas to invasive weeds, all requests for information will be answered as completely as possible. So please share your concerns with us and we can begin building a healthy, non-toxic future.