Between fleas, ticks, bugs, and intestinal worms, pet owners have a lot to think about when it comes to parasite prevention. Fleas can multiply at an alarming rate and take over a home quickly. And with the milder winters North America has been experiencing over the last several years, the tick population is growing exponentially.
There are many products on the market to protect your pet against these pests, but have you ever stopped to evaluate what you’re exposing your pets to? Many chemical-based flea and tick products on the market contain neurotoxins that may be harmful with prolonged exposure. Tests on certain flea and tick remedies have been shown to cause deadly side effects – from increased risk of heart attack, brain damage, and seizures, to organ failure, and cancer.
Thankfully, there is safer way to effectively treat and prevent parasite problems. It’s called Diatomaceous Earth (or DE), and it is your Swiss army knife for pet parasite prevention. DE is derived from the crushed fossils of freshwater organisms and marine life. It is safe, non-toxic, and inexpensive when compared to conventional parasite treatments from both veterinarians and pet retailers alike.
Diatomaceous Earth is harmless to humans and animals, yet it is deadly to insects and small parasites. This crushed powder, when viewed microscopically, resembles shards of broken glass. These shards – again, harmless to humans and animals – pierce a bug’s protective shell, causing them to dry out and die in short order. This is why DE is commonly recommended as a natural remedy for ants, cockroaches, and others unwanted pests around the home.
DE is an extremely versatile product with many uses. One important note: only use food-grade DE with your pets. Do not use and DE intended for pool filters or gardening as they may contain harmful additives.
Let’s have a look at some of the best uses for Diatomaceous Earth.
1. Flea and Tick Prevention.
Because DE is so effective at piercing a bug’s protective shell, it is the perfect natural weapon against fleas and ticks. To apply, take a handful of DE, and gently dust your pet, beginning at the head and working your way to the tail. Be sure to pay close attention around the face to avoid getting any powder in the eyes. Fleas tend to concentrate around the ears, and at the base of the tail, so ensure those areas get dusted thoroughly. Work the powder into the coat with your fingers, and you’re done.
You may dust your pets a couple of times a month (or more if needed) for safe, long-term flea and tick prevention. It’s also wise to pre-dust your pet before taking him to an environment where he may be at higher exposure risk for fleas and ticks, like wooded areas, or places frequented by other animals.
2. With Food
DE is a wonderful solution for internal parasites, like roundworms, hookworms, pinworms, and whipworms. Again, only use food-grade DE with your pets.
When added daily to a pet’s diet, Diatomaceous Earth can eliminate internal parasites in as little as one week, although it is recommended to feed DE for one month to ensure any parasite’s life cycle has been eliminated.
Dosing with DE is simple. For adult dogs, use 1 teaspoon daily for dogs under 50 lbs, and 1 tablespoon daily for dogs over 50 lbs. Mix the fine powder with some tasty canned food, or anything with enough moisture to absorb the powder, and you’re all set.
3. Around the Home
Using Diatomaceous Earth is a smart and effective method of insect and parasite prevention around the home. Sprinkle it on and around pet bedding, and toys. Spread it on carpets and rugs, and vacuum. Dust houseplants. Pepper around doors, windows, or any opening where bugs may get through. Not only will DE kill any insect it touches, it is completely harmless to pets, and people.
So the next time you’re thinking about parasite prevention for your pets, think Diatomaceous Earth!
Brandon Forder – also known as The Pet Expert – is vice-president of Canadian Pet Connection, a family-owned and -operated business located in Meaford. He has over twenty-five years of experience specializing in pet nutrition, behaviour, and healthy pet lifestyles. Canadian Pet Connection is an industry leader committed to providing their clients with the highest levels of personal, attentive service. Learn more at www.CanadianPetConnection.ca.
