Natural Pet Care for Dogs
The herb Fennel can be used
effectively for the prevention
of fleas on dogs.
Fleas are a common problem with both cats and
dogs and it is important to eradicate them not
only from your pet but also from the areas that
they use.
The herb Fennel can be used effectively for the
prevention of fleas on dogs and cats. Take a large
handful of fresh Fennel, crush to release the
aroma and oils of the herb and rub all over the
animal particularly around the ears and under
their limbs etc. This method will not kill fleas but
as they do not like the smell of Fennel they will
generally jump off the animal. Place handfuls of
Fennel in the dog’s kennel, cat’s basket and
under the back mat where your pet lies.
Ensure your pet’s bedding is washed regularly
and dogs can be bathed in an infusion of Fennel
to keep them free from fleas. After their normal
bath and before drying the dog use a solution
of boiled, cooled Fennel poured over their coat.
Herbs to help keep fleas away from an
area include Pennyroyal, Thyme, Wormwood
and Southernwood.
Coleus Canis (often referred to as Dog’s Bane)
is a herb that can be planted in an area of the
garden that you don’t want your dog to go
into. Dogs find the smell offensive and will
generally keep away from where it grows. A
spray can be made of this plant to deter dogs
from an area. Simply boil a handful of Coleus
Canis in a saucepan of water and allow cooling.
Strain the solution into a plastic spray bottle.
Spray the area needing protection from dogs.
Eczema can be a problem for many dogs and
cats. A simple effective treatment which may
help is Calendula Cream (or English Marigold
cream). Pluck a handful of petals from the
Marigold bush and place them in a clean glass
bottle or jar. Fill the jar to about one third with
petals and then pour a good quality olive or
almond oil over the petals and secure with a
tight fitting lid. Leave in a sunny spot - a
window sill or area in the sun for about a week
in summer (two weeks in winter). When the oil
turns a bright orange, strain it through a
stocking or muslin cloth and use the oil on
the affected area of your pet. If the
symptoms persist see your local vet.
Compiled by June Taylor,
5AA.