JacarandaAnimalHospital Blog: Care For Pets Animal Hospital

Pets are definitely one of the best things to have prowling around your home. The moment when you step out of your car and into the front porch is kind of indescribable, considering that either your cats or dogs (or both) go crazy. However, perennial problems which include parasites like worms, ticks and fleas, upset stomachs and other things still hound the non-human companions we have at home. As a pet owner, did you know that there are simple, effective and cheap home remedies that you can resort to? Remember though, these alternative treatments are not a substitute for veterinarians, but still, they are a perfect damage control tool.

Citrus, lemons and oranges. Citrus fruits with a strong odor and has either a sour or sweet taste, are an effective wait to repel fleas and other smaller parasites (doesn't work on ticks though). How do you apply it? Well it does not take much, just take the peel (or skin) of the fruit and rub it around your pet until the natural oils of the fruit stick to the fur. You will know this when your pet has that fragrant, citrus-like smell. And hey, it makes the pet smell awesome as well!

Water. Ticks and fleas are horrible things that need to go extinct immediately. If your pet has a serious problem, better quell it by simply immersing your cat or dog into a tub of water. No, I'm not suggesting you drown your pet, if that's what you are thinking. Anyway, if your pet has no problem being wet, submerge (not fully, just neck down) it onto the water for a couple of minutes, just enough for the parasites to asphyxiate and eventually die. Remember though, don't keep your pet underwater for a long time as it may introduce new complications.

Clean surroundings. Obviously, a clean environment is tantamount to having scot-free members of the household. A clean, dust-free and regularly cleaned carpet will do wonders in pet hygiene, especially since fleas and other parasites stay on places where pets usually rest in. Be sure to disinfect and vacuum your home regularly since it will definitely benefit yourself and the members of your household. 

Anti-tick and flea collars. There are currently a ton of anti-parasite collars currently in the market, just check your local pet store. One good thing is that they do not use chemicals, instead they use natural ingredients like Rose geranium oil to repel the nuisances. Be sure to consider availing these for your pet as it is pretty effective.

Baths. A simple bath works wonders. As you may already know, baths get rid of parasites and bacteria, set the stage for healing and gives the pet a feeling of comfort. Be sure to use an anti-bacterial and anti-parasite soap in order to maximize the effects of bath time. 

There are many other home remedies that you can use in order to maintain your pet's health. However, at the first sign or symptom of an illness, nothing can ever substitute a check-up from your local veterinarian. Try looking up animal hospital Cooper City.