'Essential' Pet Hints: 'Hintologist' Heloise Offers Natural Formulas for Fido
TEXARKANA, Texas, March 20 /PRNewswire/ -- If you're looking for more natural ways to keep your dog's fleas at bay and breath in check, renowned author and "hintologist" Heloise offers these ideas:
Doggie Breath Freshener:
Using a 20 oz. or larger plastic water or soft drink bottle, fill halfway with cold water and add one very small drop (.05 mL) of peppermint essential oil. Cap the bottle and shake for 30 seconds to mix thoroughly. Fill the rest of the bottle with cold water, shake again and pour water into dog's bowl.
Fido First Aid:
If your dog has a small scratch, lavender oil can be used to "treat" the area, since it has healing properties. Add three drops of lavender oil to one quart of warm water and wash the wound with a clean cloth after you have cleaned the area of any dirt, grass, etc.
Natural Flea Control:
Lavender oil is said to be effective and safe as a way to get rid of fleas and keep them away for the short term. Using a dog brush as a guide, cut a piece of fabric larger than the "head" of the brush. Dab on several drops of lavender oil on the cloth and spread the oil around. Put this fabric over the brush head and press into the bristles. Brush over your dog's coat, rinsing the brush in clear water, if necessary.
Freshen Dog Beds:
Combine three drops of lavender oil to one quart of warm water in a plastic spray bottle. Spritz your pet's sleeping area and freshen pet bedding.
Ear Wax Removal:
To help remove the wax and clean a dog's ears, dilute three drops of lavender oil with a teaspoon of sweet oil. Mix well and put approximately four drops of the mixture into each ear. Gently massage the base of the ears for a few minutes. Remove the excess wax with a cotton cloth or pads. (Do not poke cotton swabs into the dog's ear canal).
