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We all know what comes with wonderful and warm summer weather – not so wonderful mosquitoes, fleas and ticks. Both humans and dogs should be wary when it comes to the insects that can make our summer days quite insufferable. Now, there are some more or less effective chemical products for getting rid of these pests, but we would like to dedicate our attention to natural means of keeping little buggers at bay. All that is suggested will be equally effective for both your playful doggy friends and yourself, and some of them will even make you smell really nice.

First And Foremost – Hygiene

As warmer weather approaches, you know that all sorts of insects will be unleashed in nature, so take precautions.  In case your four-legged friend is living in your home, bathing on a regular basis is a must. Not only will this prevent the pests entering your home, but it will also significantly diminish the odds of your dog catching a bug while outside. Special note – use organic soaps, such as castile soap, made from organic fats and with essential oils, which have the ability to dehydrate insects in your dog’s hair. Keep in mind that you must dilute castile soap before using it, otherwise it will be too strong for your pooch.

Apple Cider Vinegar Is A Lifesaver

Vinegar has infinite roles both in your household and in your kitchen, but using it as an insect repellent must be one of its best uses. ACV generally has great effects on your skin and hair, and the same rules apply when it comes to your dog. Vinegar will add some extra shine to its coat and keep those pesky fleas away. A great way to use apple cider vinegar is to infuse it with some aromatic herbs such as lavender and rosemary, and leave it to sit for two weeks, shaking daily. After that, take the herbs out of the ACV and spray your dog with them. For maximum results, don’t rinse the mix off of your dog. This repellent is actually good for humans too, even children can freely use it.

Essential Oils – Combining Perfume And Useful

 In case you are frowning to this suggestion and thinking: “What about a dog’s sense of smell?” you are completely right, and that is why we underline to approach this method with a bit of caution.  High quality essential oils can be quite strong, so you should combine them with a flea powder that you already have in your home. Essential oils are mainly used for prevention and you should use very small dosages with your pets, basically treat them like children. Also, some essential oils are great for insect repellent use, while others might harm your dog, so bear that in mind. Here are some suggestions that aresuitable for this purpose: citronella, cedarwood, lemongrass, sweet orange, lavender, peppermint, rosemary, geranium etc.

DIY Flea Collar

Flea collars are a great solution for keeping pests at bay, and you can make one yourself quite easily. Buy a regular cotton dog collar, and then turn it into a flea collar by adding a few drops of bug repellent oils on it. Please remember that you should always combine essential oils with carrier oils (vegetable oils) in the following ratio – ten to fifteen drops of essential oil of your liking with a tablespoon of carrier oil. This is important because putting only essential oils to the collar might cause skin irritation.

Vacuum As Often As You Can

What might be the easiest thing to do is just to take your rugs out during summer season, but if that is not an option for you, then vacuuming will save the day. Vacuum your home at least twice a week, so that all the insects end up in your vacuum cleaner, just remember to empty it as soon as you finish, because fleas have a notorious habit of coming back. If you would like to seal the deal, half an hour before you vacuum combine two cups of baking soda and a few drops of essential oils and sprinkle it around your home, including your dog’s bedding. It is a win-win combination, your house will smell great and you can bid the pesky fleas farewell.