Excellent post.
OP, if you search "natural flea repellant" on yorkietalk there is a wonderful thread which was responded to by several who live in Florida. I'll see if I can find it as well.
They use Borax in their homes. (if the fleas are in your house, you'll never get rid of them just by treating the animal).
Found it!
Check out post 13 and on for info on Borax
Check this out too
http://www.lowchensaustralia.com/pests/bites2.htm