Ways to Protect Your Pet from Fleas Using Fresh Peppermint Leaves

You may or may not have heard that peppermint is a natural way to get rid of fleas and ticks on your dog or cat. While it may smell fresh and minty to us, it acts as a nature-made pest repellent. I like to dab a little bit of peppermint essential oil onto my dog's collar to ward off these nuisances, but what about those of you who have fresh peppermint growing in the garden? Use those fresh leaves to make your own flea repellent.

Natural Flea Collar

You can make a peppermint flea collar by using several different methods. First of all, you will need a cotton collar, or one made of rope. For the cotton collar, you can either rub fresh leaves into it to extract the natural oils (this method may get kind of messy); or, you can use this recipe to make your own peppermint extract, then place a few drops onto the collar. Use the same recipe for the rope collar: Soak it in the extract for ten minutes, then allow it to dry. Place the collar around your pet's neck and repeat every two weeks, or as needed.

Make Your Own Peppermint Sachets

Sachets can also be utilized in several different ways to help get rid of fleas. The first method: Soak cotton balls in homemade peppermint extract then allow them to dry. Drop them into the vacuum cleaner, and vacuum the affected area. This will help kill both adult fleas and their eggs. Repeat as needed. Another method is to dry peppermint leaves and wrap them in tulle. Place them in areas that may be susceptible to pests, such as inside your pet's bedding. You can even place sachets inside closets or near the door.

Other Ways to Use Peppermint Extract

If you make your own peppermint extract from fresh leaves, you will have many different ways to apply the oil. You can either make your own flea collar, or you can apply the oil directly to your pet's skin. You can dilute the oil with water in a spray bottle, and spray your pet with it frequently. Another option is to give your pet a flea bath, using the diluted extract as a rinse. Repeat each as needed. As you can see, you have nearly limitless ways to get rid of fleas and ticks with peppermint oil.

References
How to Use Peppermint to Get Rid of Fleas
Natural Flea and Tick Remedy: Peppermint Oil

** Note: If your pet ingests the peppermint, or shows any signs of an allergic reaction, please discontinue use and contact your veterinarian immediately.**