b"One of the most mind-boggling choices are linked to serious health issues in people, such aspet parents face is how to safely guard against cancerandneurologicalandrespiratoryproblems.fleas and ticks. Those creepy crawlers arent just Pets can also suffer: Skin irritation, neurological prob-gross; they can transmit disease to both pets lems, gastrointestinal disorders, and even organ fail-and people. Pets need protection, but many of the ure have been reported as a result of pet poisonings.solutions on store shelves are loaded with chemicals We have selected a few options that have proven tothat could be risky to their healthand yours. beeffectiveandpowerfulalternativestosyntheticMostconventionalfleaandtickproducts chemicals, synthetic pesticides, and synthetic insecti-including collars, topical treatments, sprays, and cides. As always, check with your family veterinari-dustsareregisteredaspesticidesandregulated an, and monitor your pet and family closely forby the EPA. Many of the pesticides allowed for use on pets adverse reactions.Powered By PlantsProven to work and easy to use. Wondercidessafe plant-based pest protection kills, repels andprevents fleas, ticks, mosquitos, flies, andhundreds more pesky bugs. Safe for dogs andcats of all ages. Made in the USA. Holistic-vetapproved. Wondercide is a fantastic Cedar Oilbased spray.They also offer a naturalyard spray that really works!Heather Moran, owner The Ultimate Pest ProtectionThe Doggie Bag Boutique, Lakeland From head to tail, thekin+kindFlea & Tick Pet Shampoo & SpraySulfate and Paraben-Free Set provides both a protectiveRichards Organics Flea & Tick Shampoo and Flea & Tick spray for keeping fleas and ticksSpray are a naturally gentle and safe way to kill pesky and away and a shampoo that will helpdangerous fleas and ticks, while also repelling mosquitos calm and relieve bites if they makefor up to four weeks at a time. Also pyrethrin and perme- their way onto your furry friend'sthrin-free to keep you from exposing you or your dog to skin. This flea and tick spray forharsh chemicals. Made in the USA. dogs and cats is made with 100%(Not safe for use on cats). natural and organic ingredients.Its also vegan, Non-GMO ProjectThis shampoo will not only keep fleas away, it con- verified, and made in the USA.tains cedarwood oil, which is good for skin and coatconditioning and dermatitis of all types. These herbal Certified Leaping Bunny cruelty-based products are great for getting rid of the existing free. Love it or your money back.bugs. Darrel Day, co-ownerDog Gone Holistic, Lithia and Riverview60THE NEW BARKER www.TheNewBarker.com"