Springtime is that point in time when pets need help with annoying itches. As pet parents, we have to settle on how we are going to handle the various choices, some safe, and many that are hazardous. Bear in mind, our pets rely on us for aid; it is our choice!  Our choices should not put their health at risk.

Cedar and I asked our friend, Kate Solisti, to weigh in on alternatives for safe flea and tick protections. Kate writes:

Are you feeling the need to use flea, tick and mosquito (heartworm) pesticides? WARNING: All of the over-the-counter flea, tick and heartworm medications, and many of the so-called “natural” repellants are DANGEROUS TO YOUR PET’S HEALTH (and to yours and your children’s health as well).

For example, Permethrin, a synthetic chemical in the pyrethroid “family,” is an ingredient in Adams, Bio-Spot, K9-Advantix flea & tick treatments for dogs and is also in Cutter Bug Free Backyard spray, Raid Ant & Roach Killer, and Dragnet (a “pesticide for home use”), to name a few.

Permethrin is HIGHLY toxic to cats, EXTREMELY toxic to fish and is a “possible human carcinogen!” This means that if you use any products with Permethrin on your dog or around the house, you could seriously injure your cat and fish! Permethrin is a neurotoxin. It inhibits the activity of the immune system and, according to Wikipedia, “is more acutely toxic to children than adults.”

So, instead of putting pesticides on your animals or feeding them pesticides (heartworm medications), opt for strengthening their resistance and using common sense!

1)     Feed wholesome foods & probiotics for immune support.

2)     Use a flea comb after walks and check for ticks.

3)     Do not walk your dog during peak mosquito hours.

4)     Feed your dog and cat “Internal Flea Powder” by Dr. Bob Goldstein. Internal Flea Powder is a combination of nutrients like, yeast, garlic, hops oil, eggs, liver, and B vitamins that make your furry friend smell and taste bad to biting fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, and flies. For more info on this and other natural flea and tick repellants at www.earthanimal.com

5)     Please, remember that ALL pesticides are dangerous to animals, humans and the environment, no matter what claims are made to the contrary.

6)     There are SAFE alternatives!

7)     Be VERY wary of using essential oils for insect repellants, especially with cats. Healthy dogs can safely tolerate SOME (always) diluted oils, but many essential oils are TOXIC to cats. Contact me for more info: Kate Solisti www.akinshipwithanimals.com (303) 834-9150

Kate is an internationally known animal communicator, author, and educator. She is an expert in dog & cat nutrition. To learn more about her private sessions, tele-classes, books and events.

Know Pet First Aid, Sign up now for the next class May 15, 2010.