Yes, that's right. Flea--not flu--season is here. Our four-legged friends deserve the same safe and alternative care as we do. Harsh chemicals which kill fleas and their eggs, are also harmful to our pets and our families. Luckily, alternatives are available.

A mainstay in flea control is careful and consistent good grooming of your pet and cleaning of their sleeping areas. Brushing and combing is essential in maintaining a healthy coat and skin. It is also an important way to create bonding and friendship with your pets.

While grooming your pet, fleas will be most easily spotted on the stomach and groin area. A flea comb is very helpful because fleas will get caught in the fine teeth. Also, grooming on a white sheet or plain white or kraft paper can be helpful. Fleas that "jump ship" will be more easily spotted against this background.

Thorough grooming you can also discover any flea problems before they become out-of-control. Experts estimate that for every 1 (one) flea on your pet, there may be over 100 (one hundred) in various life stages in the nearby environment. To most effectively eliminate a flea-problem, all life stages of the flea must be dealt with and all steps need to be done on the same day.

The first step is with the pet itself.

Marian Brown has been active in holistic health care for people and pets over 15 years. She is editor of Holistic Health News. Visit our site at http://www.hhnews.com to join our free email newsletter containing other useful pet care tips.