Is your dog constantly pestered by flies? These insects aren't just annoying to your pet – they can also cause pain and sickness, by biting their ears or laying eggs in their fur. These pests can be especially problemsome on hot, humid months. Here are a few tips to keep in mind to make sure your dog is fly-free all summer.

Keep Your Living Areas Clean

Flies can easily enter your house through open windows and doors. Don't attract flies by leaving food out in the open. Store food in the fridge or pantry, and replace the contents of your fruit bowl regularly.

Don't leave dirty dishes in the sink for long periods of time. Wash the dishes after every meal. This goes for the doggy dishes, too. Use waste containers that come with covers, and be sure to take the trash out every single day.

As for the yard, make sure you pick up any poop left around by your furry friend. Rotting organic material and trash should be removed. 

Use Topical Medications

There are many fly repellant topical solutions that can be applied to the tips of your dog's ears and coat to keep flies away. Most of these solutions are based on essential oils, which include geranium, lavender, lemon, eucalyptus, and sandalwood.

You can also make fly repellants at home. Just mix the essential oils with water – five to ten drops of oil to 32 ounces of water should be a good ratio. Keep the solutions in spray bottles for easy application.

Another remedy to combat flies is to employ a mixture of apple cider vinegar with water using a ratio of 1:1. This mixture can be sprayed in your dog's food, water and also on their coat. 

While there are quite a few over-the-counter fly repellant sprays for dogs on the market, always check with your vet to find which brands are safe both for your dog and the environment.

Monitor Your Dog's Skin

Checking your pet's skin for any abrasions or wounds during your grooming sessions. Blood is especially attractive to flies. If you find any open sores on your pet, bring it immediately to the vet for proper medical attention.

Other Helpful Tips To Keep Flies Away

Aside from the tips listed above, there are other helpful ways to fly-proof your home and keep your dog happy.

1) – Fly traps attract and catch flies very well. Hang them beside doors, windows, and areas where your dog spends a lot of its time.

2) – Consider putting screens on your windows, and use screen doors to keep flies out of the home while letting the sun and fresh air in. You might also want to keep your pet indoors during the hottest hours of the day, when flies are most active.

3) – Plant southernwood (artemisia abrotanum) and basil around the yard, or in pots near your dog's kennel. These plants not only keep keep flies away, but also mosquitoes.