Editor 's note : Morieka Johnson writes about pets , fashion and money-saving ideas for MNN.com . You can follow her and more green writers on Twitter @ MotherNatureNet . ( MNN.com ) -- If you have a pet , you know that squeezing a topical solution on your dog each month may be the easiest and most effective way to fight fleas . Most of the products contain a synthetic insecticide that attacks a flea 's nervous system . The solution is applied along a dog 's back and usually spreads from follicle to follicle within a day . But this popular method has come under fire recently due to reports of adverse reactions among dogs and cats . The Environmental Protection Agency ( EPA ) has called for more stringent testing and evaluation requirements as well as stronger warning labels . In the meantime , I admire you for seeking a chemical-free approach . Here are a few green options for you to consider . MNN : 9 animals that use prosthetics . Find a flea comb . Regular flea maintenance will require a cache of flea-fighting tools , starting with a good flea comb . These fine-toothed wire tools come in a variety of shapes and sizes . Choose an ergonomic version and schedule standing appointments with your dog for a thorough combing . Read the label carefully . Look for products such as Bio-Groom Flea and Tick concentrate , which contains Pyrethrin , a biodegradable insecticide that 's made from chrysanthemums . While you still need to exercise caution when applying the chemical , it 's a better option to topical solutions that contain permethrin . MNN : Pet lovers hope to get new law on wills . Try neem oil . This all-natural insect repellent comes from the neem tree in India . Add a few drops to your favorite pet shampoo , dilute it with dishwashing liquid for a do-it-yourself flea spray or simply apply the oil directly to your dog 's coat . The primary ingredient in grooming products by Ark Naturals , neem oil also repels mosquitoes . Consider an oral treatment . Oral tablets provide another alternative to topical solutions . Products like Capstar and Comfortis go to work quickly , killing any adult fleas a few minutes after being consumed . MNN : New restaurant in Copacabana serves dogs in style . Enjoy Christmas in July . A relatively new company on the scene , Vet 's Best uses the power of peppermint and clove oils to fight fleas and ticks . I have n't tried it yet , but the idea of a sweet-smelling dog appeals to me . Consult your dog 's vet about the remedy that works best for your pet , and follow label directions carefully . Keep in mind that dust mites can create more havoc than fleas , so it pays to tackle that problem , too . © Copyright 2011 Mother Nature Network .
Dog - food products that contain a synthetic ingredient have come under scrutiny recently . The Environmental Protection Agency has called for stronger warning labels . Consult your dog 's owner about the remedy that is best for your pet .