Can feeding a raw diet prevent fleas? I Dr. Peter Dobias – Dr. Dobias Healing Solutions

How good health can fend off pesky fleas

Conventional flea products are known for serious side effects, such as seizures. Sadly, with almost every chemically-based product, there are reports of fatalities. This is one reason why so many dog lovers look for safer natural alternatives and why I often get the question: “Can feeding a raw, natural diet prevent fleas?”

Fleas are ectoparasites, which means that they live on the skin's surface, similar to lice or ticks. As a holistic veterinarian, I've seen a marked decline in the overall flea infestation of my patients after they switch to a balanced raw diet and essential, natural supplements.

So, is a raw diet a cure-all, including for fleas?

Of course not.

A good diet is the fuel for your dog's body, but it would be a mistake to think that a raw diet can prevent fleas completely. It happens less often, but it still happens!

Fleas are smelly, dog-loving, sugar junkies

There are two main reasons why dogs that eat processed food have higher rates of flea infestation.

The first is fleas love sugar highs and kibble diets cause severe spikes in blood glucose levels, which attracts fleas. This phenomenon can be compared to some people attracting mosquitoes more than others. It is the skin and body chemistry that makes a difference.

The second reason is that fleas are attracted to animals with stronger odors and less healthy skin. Everyone who feeds a raw or homemade cooked diet will agree that the ‘doggy smell' disappears in the vast majority of dogs after a few weeks of eating wholesome food.

Fleas have power in numbers

Some dog lovers worry their dog is sick when they find fleas, but that's not always the case.

Years ago, my previous dog Skai and I visited an old family friend. One of the reasons for our visit was to comfort her over the loss of her canine companion. We had a lovely visit, except that it wasn't only my friend who was missing her dog. The dog's fleas missed him too and they were HUNGRY!

Within a few hours, I found more than a hundred fleas on Skai. There was no way Skai's immune system could fend off such a flea army!

Back then, FleaHex® had not been created, and I had to use a conventional flea treatment. 

It got rid of the fleas, but it also made him seriously ill. And so I promised him I would never use these nasty chemicals on him, and would do all I could to find an effected all-natural solution.

That is what put me on the path of finding Gabriella, a talented herbalist, and creating FleaHex and TickHex® together, our all-natural flea and tick control products for dogs. 

Dogs are less prone to fleas and other parasites if they are healthy, however, there is a tipping point when even a healthy dog will get fleas and you'll need to deal with the infestation.

Use the guide below to learn more about what natural products should be used and when – from flea and tick prevention to infestations, we have it listed in this handy chart below. 

 

Check out our all-natural flea and tick control products for dogs here

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the best, all natural flea and tick control?

TickHex is my go to spray during flea and tick season.

Does TickHex work to repel both fleas and ticks?

Yes.

Is it safe to apply TickHex daily?

Yes! TickHex is safe to be used daily for flea and tick prevention.

How do I tell if my dog has fleas?

Look for signs such as excessive scratching, red and irritated skin, and small dark specks (flea dirt) in your dog's fur. You may also see adult fleas jumping on your dog's coat.

What's the best way to break the flea life cycle?

Breaking the flea life cycle involves addressing fleas at all stages—eggs, larvae, pupae, and adults.

1. 1. Wash all blankets and bedding that your dog uses and vacuum all floors, and areas where your dog lays.
   2. Bathe your dog with FleaHex Wash weekly for at least one month to eliminate fleas on your dog.
   3. Apply TickHex Body Spray (for fleas and ticks) daily for one week to repel fleas and ticks. Afterward, use it weekly for prevention during flea season.
   4. Use FleaHex Household Spray once weekly on blankets and carpets until no more fleas are seen..

Is it safe to use these products around children?

Our all natural flea and tick products are made from USDA certified organic, natural, and plant-based ingredients. It's designed to be safe for use around dogs, puppies, and children.

Can I use FleaHex Household Spray on my dog?

Yes, FleaHex HouseHold Spray can be used on your dog.

How can I treat my yard to prevent flea infestations?

To treat your yard naturally, sprinkle diatomaceous earth in your garden on a monthly basis. Diatomaceous earth helps destroy flea eggs and larvae, breaking the flea life cycle and reducing infestations in outdoor areas.

 

To learn more about how to prevent fleas and ticks naturally, watch this video:

Recommended reading:

10 wild and crazy facts about fleas and dogs

What flea products are the safest – orals, spot-ons or washes?

Flea product toxicity reports and natural flea product breakthrough

© Dr. Peter Dobias, DVM