What's wrong with using orange oil as a flea remedy for dogs?

Question

I've been applying orange oil to my the fur of my dog and my cat every other week for a couple months now as an alternative to flea solutions like frontline that contain a lot of pesticides. When I mentioned that I did this in the dog section the other day I got a ton of thumbs down. I've never even had a problem with it. Is frontline supposed to be any easier on your dog's skin or something?

Answer 1

No, its not that Frontline is better, its just that orange oil can be very harsh on your dog's skin, and it isn't a particularly reliable way to prevent fleas and ticks, even if you haven't had a problem yet.

Try a company called Springtime.  They offer a Bug-Off Garlic supplement as a natural, effective, safe treatment to prevent fleas and ticks.  Might be better for your situation.  Would keep you from damaging your dog's skin and hair long term, and still gives you a natural, effective remedy.

http://www.springtimeinc.com/product/148...

Answer 2

i worked at an animal hospital for 5 years and never had a proble with frontline. i use it on my dog in the summer months to prevent fleas and ticks. i know some people dont like the ingredients in it, but like i said, i have never heard of anything bad happening to the dogs or cats. it works really well if used right. as far as the orange oil goes... i have no idea if thats good or bad. good luck. i hope i helped in some way. and oh... you can get frontline at a fleet farm for a lot cheaper than your vets office.

Answer 3

I think there is absolutely nothing wrong with this if it works for your animals. In fact, it is interesting to learn and makes sense. I also like the 'oil' which will moisturise the skin. Excellent solution if you ask me.

What do you use as a natural worm treatment?

Front-line is useful when the natural products are not strong enough, say for instance during flea time epidemics. I use Front-line once every 3 years or so. I add raw garlic into their food as a natural flea deterrent. Good food provides a healthy immune system and a strong healthy animal, usually does not attract fleas.

I appreciate you sharing your excellent method. Will try that myself.