Your pets are some of your best friends, and they depend on you to meet all of their needs. Keep them healthy and safe by doing regular checks for any signs of injury or irritation, and keep their fur clean and free from pests.
Environment
You should make an effort to keep your yard and your home clean so you don't attract pests. Clear any brush and make sure tall grass and weeds are trimmed. Common pests like fleas tend to hide in tall grasses, especially during warm weather. You can prevent an infestation of your pet, yard, and your home by keeping your lawn maintained. You may also want to look into the services of an exterminator to keep the fleas and other pests at bay. Keeping a clean yard also keeps your dog's coat cleaner so they don't track mud and debris into your home.
It's important to keep your pet from bringing home fleas because they don't only irritate your dog; they can also bite humans and cause red itchy bumps. In addition to keeping your outdoor environment clean and tidy, you should also frequently clean and vacuum your home. Clean any upholstery and favorite spots that your pet tends to lay in. Fleas can be difficult to get rid of once your dog has them, so prevention is key.
Hygiene
Taking care of your dog's hygiene needs will keep him healthy and his coat shiny. Bathe your dog regularly, and brush their fur to help with shedding and to inspect his skin and coat for any irritation or signs of an infestation. Pay attention to any unusual behavior like constant scratching, which may alert you to a skin condition or presence of fleas.
You should also clean their bedding regularly, and consider replacing it if you notice an abundance of fleas or another issue.
Topical Treatments
There are many topical treatments to keep your dog's coat healthy and prevent or eliminate any pests. Topical treatments include medications that are applied directly to your dog's skin and flea and tick collars.
Other options for quick clean up in between baths are wipes that you can use on your dog after they've been outside, and dry shampoo to keep them smelling fresh and prevent build up of oil.
Edible Options
There are also edible means to keep your dog's coat healthy and clean. Supplements such as Omega 3s and Omega 6s will keep your dog's skin supple and coat looking thick and shiny
Flea and tick medications can also be administered orally in the form of a treat. It's important to follow the instructions for these since most dosages are dependent on the dog's weight.
A healthy diet with proper nutrients can also keep your pet looking and feeling his or her best.
Natural Alternatives
Natural treatments are available for those that prefer them. You can use essential oils to keep your dog's coat healthy and deter any ticks, fleas, and other pests. These oils need to be properly diluted and applied under the care of a veterinarian or knowledgeable professional. Always do your research and make sure that the oil you choose is safe for use around your dog, and pay attention to how they react to it so you know that it is not negatively affecting them.
Rose geranium is a good oil that you can apply to your pet's coat to help keep away fleas and ticks. Lavender is another useful oil that deters these pests, and can also soothe any irritation that they've already caused to skin
A few other natural means include using chamomile tea to reduce inflammation that you have noticed on your dog's skin, and aloe vera to treat excess dryness.
If you take the proper measures, you can easily keep your dog healthy and clean to prevent bothersome pests. This is important for not only your dog's safety and comfort, but for your own as well.