Diatomaceous earth can eliminate flea and tick problems for your pets.
Diatomaceous earth is the fossilized remains of a type of hard-shelled algae called diatoms. While food-grade diatomaceous earth is generally safe for humans and animals, it is lethal when it comes to insects. Its sharp edges cut into the waxy outer layer of fleas, ticks and other insects causing them to dehydrate and eventually die. It can be dangerous if inhaled in large amounts or on a regular basis and is deadly to all insects, even those that are beneficial.
Instructions
1. Purchase food-grade diatomaceous earth from local hardware, gardening or health-food stores. Avoid buying pool-grade diatomaceous earth.
2. Pour a small amount of diatomaceous earth in the palm of your gloved hand. Rub it into the coat of your pet that has fleas. Use a brush to work it down to the skin. Do not overly apply and take care to avoid getting the dust into the eyes and nose of the animal. Dust individual ticks thoroughly when they are noted on your pet. Repeat monthly as needed.
3. Sprinkle the diatomaceous earth evenly over your carpet and your pet's bedding. As you are shaking the powder, prevent accidental inhalation by placing a protective mask over your nose and mouth and removing your pet from the room until any dust settles. Place the product around baseboards, corners and cracks around the inside of your home. Allow the powder to sit on the carpet for several hours or overnight before vacuuming up. Throw away the vacuum bag or empty the canister when you are done.
4. Create a barrier of diatomaceous earth at any potential entrances where fleas or ticks can enter your home. Go around your house and sprinkle it into any outdoor cracks. Add it to your yard by sprinkling it across your grass and around plants and flowers. Add it under bark trees, shrubs and around fences; anywhere where ticks and their eggs may be located. Repeat approximately every two weeks to eliminate new ticks or fleas that have entered your yard.
5. Distribute it in your car if your pet has spread fleas to your vehicle. Sprinkle it over the upholstery and on the carpeting; get it under the seats as well. Allow it to sit in your car for several hours and vacuum it out completely before using your car again.
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