Diatomaceous Earth for Dogs
Natural Insect & Parasite control
How to Use Diatomaceous Earty
Diatomaceous earth (DE) is a natural substance made from the fossilized remains of tiny aquatic organisms called diatoms. It is composed of a soft, siliceous sedimentary rock that is easily crumbled into a fine white to off-white powder.
The sharp edges of the DE particles mechanically damage the exoskeleton of insects, causing them to dehydrate and die. Much better for the environment than chemical solutions. While harmful to insects, it offers no risk to your pets.
DE has a variety of uses and benefits for dogs, including:
Flea and tick control: DE can be applied to the dog's coat to kill fleas and ticks, ants and mites.
Internal parasite control: DE can be added to a dog's food to help control internal parasites such as worms.
Digestive health: DE can help to improve a dog's digestion by absorbing excess water in the gut and promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria.
Teeth and gums: DE can help to strengthen teeth and improve oral health when used as tooth powder.
Skin health: DE can help to soothe itchy, dry skin and improve the overall health of a dog's coat when added to the dog's bath water. It can become drying to the skin so use it sparingly and condition the skin as needed.
Detox protocols: DE may help with heavy metal detox and toxin absorption
may absorb methyl mercury, E. coli, endotoxins, viruses, organophosphate pesticide residues, drug resides, and protein. It may even remove the proteinaceous toxins from some intestinal infections. There’s research showing it can remove heavy metals from waste water.
Diatomaceous Earth Supplements Minerals
So if you’re making homemade dog food this may be a good consideration for you.
calcium
copper
iron
magnesium
phosphorous
potassium
selenium
silica
silicon
sodium
zinc
How Much Diatomaceous Should You Given With Food
For maintenance control of internal parasites such as worms, use food-grade DE only. The general recommendation is to start with 1tsp per 50# of body weight.
If you are using DE to eliminate internal parasites on a temporary basis, be sure you use for at least 30 days.
It's important to note that DE should not be fed to puppies under 12 weeks of age and it should be avoided in pregnant or nursing dogs.
Volhard Dog Nutrition NDF2 includes diatomaceous earth in the formulation. No need to add more.
Diatomaceous Earth In Your Yard
Natural insect control without all the chemicals.
Here is a general process for how to apply DE in your yard:
Choose a dry, windless day to apply DE. Avoid applying DE when it is wet, as the moisture can cause the DE to clump and lose its effectiveness.
Purchase food-grade DE, which is safe for outdoor use and will not harm your pets or plants.
Spread the DE evenly over the areas of your yard that you wish to treat. You can use a spreader or simply sprinkle the DE by hand. Be sure to cover the entire area, including the edges of your lawn and any areas where pests are known to congregate.
Rake or sweep the DE into the grass or soil to ensure that it is well-distributed.
Repeat the application every few weeks, or as needed, to maintain control of pests.
DE can be harmful to aquatic organisms, so avoid applying it near streams, ponds, or other bodies of water. DE can be toxic to bees and other beneficial insects, so it is best to avoid applying it when flowers are blooming, and you can use other methods like neem oil, borax or essential oils. Cedarwood Oil is a good choice.
Wearing a mask is suggested while distributing in your yard to avoid inhalation. Keep Fido inside while spreading until the dust settles.