Fleas and ticks are harmful to cats and dogs alike. They cause diseases in the long run, but the moment they snuggle into your pet’s coat, itching, inflammation, and discomfort begin. Fleas and ticks are pests you do not want to feed, and hence, as pet parents, you must look for solutions against these parasites. The best remedies for fleas and ticks on dogs are listed below.

1. Capstar: Oral Flea Treatment
Most veterinarians recommend over-the-counter medication if your pet already has fleas. Capstar is one of the most effective pills in the market and thankfully is available in most stores for both dogs and cats. It offers quick relief, begins to work within 30 minutes of administration, and destroys 90% of fleas within four hours. Sadly, the treatment is ineffective against larvae and eggs, so you need to combine this treatment with other methods to eliminate pests. Each Capstar pill is effective for 24 hours. Depending on the size of your pet, you can get different formulae but ensure you talk to a veterinarian before you give them any new medication.

2. Zodiac Flea and Tick Powder
One of the most popular flea and tick powders is from Zodiac. It is suitable for all pets, dogs, puppies, cats, and kittens. You can sprinkle the powder on your pet’s coat, an easy alternative for pets who do not like to bathe. Unlike most formulae that use diatomaceous earth, Zodiac uses pyrethrins and piperonyl butoxide to kill pests on contact. You can use the shaker to distribute the powder on your pet’s fur evenly. This powder has a pleasant odor and is highly effective, but avoid the eyes during application.

3. Adams Plus Flea and Tick Carpet Spray
Apart from treating your pet, ticks and fleas are capable of getting into your home. You must get treatment for the carpets and upholstery, and Adams plus is one of the most popular treatment sprays for this purpose. The aerosol spray gets deep into the fibers of carpets and couches and sticks to windows and doors for longer, killing pests quickly but not leaving any stains or marks. It contains an insect growth regulator that interrupts the life cycle of ticks and fleas. When coupled with other remedies, Adams plus is an effective weapon against pests that trouble cats and dogs.

4. Home remedies
Lemon sprays are a pleasant-smelling flea repellant you can make at home. Cut lemons, steep them in water overnight, filter, and pour the liquid into a spray bottle. You can use this on your pet’s coat as well as around the house. You can also spray diluted essential oils like tea tree, rosemary, lavender, and lemongrass around the house. Be sure to check if your pet is sensitive to the scent and ensure the oils are not irritating on their coat using a patch test. You can also make use of apple cider vinegar on their skin before a bath or in small amounts in your pet’s drinking water to keep fleas and ticks away.