Because our much loved little dogs have very little body fat, they are particularly sensitive to poisons. We are careful about pesticides because of this, but ALL of us are better off with a less toxic environment, so here are some options that work without toxins.

The most useful tool for removing fleas is a simple nontoxic bath for the dog. Dogs are flea magnets, and in the past were kept in part as a way of keeping fleas off their humans. Dogs and cats also killed vermin, like rats... another flea friend. By washing the dog, you effectively kill all the fleas that they picked up in their travels. You don't have to use a toxic shampoo, either! Any mild soap or shampoo will mechanically kill fleas. I like Dr Bronner's liquid Castile soap, in the baby unscented or lavender version. Because fleas have no internal skeleton, they depend on their waxy coating to remain inflated. Soap breaks down the waxy coating, and the fleas collapse and die... all without any poison. And because the bathing works mechanically, the fleas can not develop resistance to this method, as they do with some of the toxic chemical products.

In addition to the dog, your vacuum cleaner is a great ally in removing fleas mechanically. For carpets, I like to use Borax from the laundry aisle of the grocery store. This mineral works by drying out the fleas. Just work into the carpet, leave overnight, then vacuum up. Continue to vacuum regularly to catch any newly hatched fleas, and perhaps eggs. I vacuum furniture as well, paying special attention to under the cushions.

You can make soapy flea traps, too... a shallow container with soapy water left out at night, especially if near a heat source, works well. Fleas are drawn to the heat, fall in and drown. Just be sure that dogs and cats don't have access because they might drink the soapy water.

There is really not a lot more satisfying than watching fleas die in the lather of a bath, and wash down the drain...