Having a pet is an incredibly rewarding and heartwarming experience, but caring for them isn’t easy. It requires a lot of involvement, whether it is in the form of time, attention, or resources. A pet’s health and happiness depend on many factors, including proper nutrition, regular exercise, preventive measures, mental stimulation, a loving environment, and more. However, some mistakes that pet parents make may compromise their pet’s health and well-being. Ignoring fleas and ticks Pet parents often make the mistake of ignoring minor fleas and ticks, thinking that they will go away on their own. But fleas and ticks are pests that not only cause pets discomfort but also put them at risk of developing infections, skin irritation, and other diseases like Lyme disease or Rocky Mountain spotted fever. So, one should regularly check for signs of these pests and use measures like flea collars and treatments, especially during warmer months, to ensure optimal pet health. Not paying attention to oral hygiene Pets may not necessarily need brushing and flossing daily as humans do, but they require a certain level of dental care. Poor oral hygiene can cause tartar buildup, gum disease, or heart or kidney issues. While brushing a pet’s teeth is the best option to maintain their oral hygiene, chewable toys like chewables by PetSmart, especially for dogs, are also an option.

Fleas and ticks are parasites that cause discomfort and health risks to dogs and nuisance to pet owners. While commercial products are available to help fight these parasites, some people opt for repellants made of kitchen ingredients that are commonly available and have properties that help eliminate fleas and ticks effectively. These products do not include harmful chemicals. They also suit individuals who are concerned about the environmental impact of alternative pest control techniques. Lemon juice Lemon juice is one of the most effective kitchen ingredients for fighting fleas and ticks. There are two ways in which one can use this common kitchen ingredient for this purpose. Firstly, one can prepare a bath for their dog with diluted lemon juice. For this, combine two cups of water with half a cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice. One can then add their dog’s regular shampoo to the mix, which will create the perfect bath to eliminate fleas and ticks. Another way to use lemon juice is to dip the dog’s comb into fresh lemon juice and run it through their fur. Apple cider vinegar One can also make use of apple cider vinegar in multiple ways to eliminate fleas and ticks.