Pets and animals can benefit from Aromatherapy too. The following is a recipe for a very simple, but effective flea collar.

Most commercially sold flea collars are made with highly toxic chemicals which can be absorbed through the skin of our pets, and us. Cats often cannot bear being near these as they try desperately to lick and groom the area surrounding the collar, only increasing the level of chemicals absorbed.

Fleas spend only about one-eighth of their life on an animal, so if the flea has gained entrance into your home via your pet the remaining seven-eighths of its life will be spent in your pet's bedding or on your carpet and furniture. Contrary to popular belief, fleas prefer walking to hopping about on their powerful legs, so spotting them isn't just a matter of waiting to see a little high-jumper.

An essential oil collar provides excellent protection against fleas and is very cheap and easy to make. Buy a soft material collar - a cheap one from a market will do - and soak it in the following mixture:

If you are using the garlic capsules, break them open and add the contents to the mixture. Blend your ingredients together and pour it over the collar until fully absorbed. Leave to dry before putting around your pet's neck. It should be effective for one month.

Blood is the fleas' only food, but when garlic is detected in it they will leave well alone. Add 1 or 2 capsules of garlic to your pet's diet during spring and summer, depending on its size.