How to Get Rid of Fleas on Pets: Another Surprising Way Dawn Dishwashing Soap Helps Animals Pets

My dog does not have fleas. Well, that was true until one jumped on me as I watched Joanna Gaines find shiplap under an existing wall in her latest renovation a few nights ago. Because Cocoa, my adorable chiweenie, needed a checkup before the vet would prescribe Bravecto, I asked what would work until my appointment later that week. The answer surprised me: Dawn. Yes, the blue dishwashing soap that's been saving wildlife affected by oil for 40 years. 

A quick trip to the store and one wet shirt later, Cocoa's blood-sucking visitors had met their maker – literally. Plus, she smelled great and her coat was shiny. During her appointment, the vet tech at Shady Brook Animal Hospital gave me a few more tips on using Dawn to get rid of fleas:

• It's only recommended to bathe dogs in Dawn to kill fleas every other week because the detergent can be drying to the skin. 

• The maximum would be bathing once a week in Dawn, but that would be only for a major flea infestation issue.

• Dawn is safe for puppies, but it's only recommended once a month.

• Buy only original blue Dawn. 

Cocoa was still prescribed and given Bravecto to keep fleas away for three months at a time, but it's good to know that in an emergency flea situation, Dawn has our backs – and tails!

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