Dear Pepper #1. I was thrilled to see the number of replies to your query about flea control that were suggesting natural approaches. I can absolutely swear by nutritional yeast as a flea repellant. I have used it on my many cats for over 25 years in areas that were absolutely infested with fleas. Even my vet, who poo-poo'd the idea at first, had to admit that my animals were flea-free when many of the others in her practice were suffering terribly - even those using chemical treatments. I am very leary about the chemical flea-shampoos having heard of kittens who were poisoned by the shampoos and could not be saved.

I sprinkle about 1 teaspoon of nutritional yeast (per meal per cat) over their food. You may want to try a little less at first until they acquire a taste for it - which they will! I've had cats who didn't want their food without it! We also use it for our Saint Bernard so the dosage is much increased for her! I give her up to 1/4 cup per day and she loves it. Depending on your area, and the size of your dog, you'll have to experiment with the quantity to find what is most effective for you.

What happens is that the nutritional yeast (engevita, flake or brewer's yeast, any good tasting, food quality yeast, best purchased at a health food store) changes the way your pet's blood smells or "tastes" to the fleas. They might jump on but they don't stay. In addition, yeast is very high in protein, B Vitamins and other nutrients, so it is a win-win solution. You'll have pets with soft glossy coats, shiny eyes and healthy skin underneath. The yeast is expensive, but I believe that top-rate nutrition will always pay for itself in your pet's happiness and lowered vet bills.

It's true that it is not an immediate solution and I agree with the others who have said that it's best to get rid of the fleas that you do have now (both in the house and on your pets) but I recommend starting your pets on the supplement now and once they and the environment are clear, they will stay flea-free. With diligence, and a good flea comb, you can remove a great many fleas (have a small bowl or glass of rubbing alcohol nearby - comb out the fleas and pop the comb in the alcohol before the fleas have a chance to struggle free & hop away.) You didn't mention your dog's breed but if it is a large or very furry animal you might consider shaving the fur very short (a buzz cut!) to reveal the fleas, and then just go after the little buggers with the flea comb! My experience has shown that once you are rid of them, the yeast will keep them away.

One neat trick for removing fleas from your house is to place a 2-inch piece of "flea collar" in your vacuum cleaner bag, vacuum your house to within an inch of its life (furniture too) and then close the bag securely (fleas and collar together) and dispose of outside the house immediately. Be sure to wash your hands well after handling the collar. Do this whenever you suspect fleas in your home - paying special attention to carpets and dry, dusty places where the eggs survive.

Whew! I sure didn't intend to go on and on about this but I'm feel strongly about helping to find natural and safe alternatives to perpetuating the "chemical soup" we live in! Good luck! I would love to hear how it goes for you.

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love IS unconditional