Vanessa Truswell
Ticks aren't just pesky parasites ... they can sometimes pose a health threat to our dogs.
While traditional chemical treatments are commonly used, they often come with their own set of risks. Luckily, natural tick repellents can offer a safer and healthier alternative.
Here's how to protect your dog's health from ticks without exposing her to harmful chemicals.
Why Are Ticks A Problem For Dogs?
What's the big deal with tiny pests like ticks? Well, ticks are carriers of several dangerous diseases that can severely impact your dog's health. Among the most common are Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, anaplasmosis, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever.
These illnesses can lead to a range of symptoms, from mild discomfort to severe health complications, and sometimes even death.
Here's a closer look at each one:
- Lyme Disease: Caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, Lyme disease can result in symptoms such as fever, loss of appetite, painful joints, and lethargy.
- Ehrlichiosis: This bacterial infection, transmitted by ticks, can cause fever, lameness, weight loss, and severe bleeding disorders.
- Anaplasmosis: Another tick-borne disease, anaplasmosis can lead to symptoms including fever, joint pain, lethargy, and neurological issues.
- Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever: Caused by the bacterium Rickettsia rickettsii, this disease can be fatal if not treated promptly, presenting symptoms such as fever, rash, muscle pain, and potentially severe organ damage.
Traditional chemical tick treatments, while effective in killing ticks, can also pose significant health risks to dogs. These treatments often contain harsh chemicals that can affect your dog’s digestive tract, internal organs, and overall health.
The Danger Of Chemical Tick Treatments
Traditional tick treatments, such as bombs, sprays, dips, spot-ons, chewables, and collars, are designed to eliminate ticks but often come with substantial risks. These products typically contain pesticides and other chemicals that can be harmful to dogs. Over time, ticks can develop resistance to certain chemicals, leading manufacturers to create stronger formulations that may be even more toxic.
Statistics highlight the dangers associated with chemical tick treatments. Each year, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) receives thousands of reports of adverse reactions to these products. These reactions can range from mild skin irritations to severe systemic issues, including:
- Digestive Problems: Vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite.
- Neurological Issues: Seizures, tremors, and uncoordinated movements.
- Respiratory Distress: Difficulty breathing and coughing.
In some cases, these adverse reactions can be life-threatening, underscoring the need for safer alternatives.
Natural Tick Repellent Options
Protecting your dog from ticks doesn't have to involve harsh chemicals. In fact, many natural tick repellent methods are effective and safer for your pet.
These methods can be categorized into dietary, topical, and environmental approaches to protect your dogs naturally.
With the natural solutions below, you can keep your dog tick-free and prevent future infestations while also promoting overall health.
Let's look at dietary strategies first.
Dietary Tick Repellents For Dogs
Garlic
Garlic is an excellent natural tick repellent for dogs. When fed in safe, moderate amounts, garlic releases allicin, an active ingredient that makes your dog less appealing to ticks.
To prepare, peel and chop the garlic, then let it sit for 15 minutes to activate the allicin before adding it to your dog's food.
Here are safe dosage guidelines based on your dog’s weight:
- 5 lbs: ⅙ tsp
- 10 lbs: ⅓ tsp
- 15 lbs: ½ tsp
- 20 lbs: ⅔ tsp
- 30 lbs: 1 tsp
Caution: Avoid giving garlic to pregnant females, puppies under 6 months, and breeds like Akitas and Shiba Inus.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Adding apple cider vinegar (ACV) to your dog’s diet can also repel ticks. ACV makes your dog's blood less attractive to ticks and fleas.
Use organic ACV if possible, and add 2 tablespoons to your dog’s food or water bowl daily.
Topical/External Tick Preventatives
Herbal Flea and Tick Powder
You can create a natural tick repellent powder using diatomaceous earth, NEEM powder, and yarrow powder. Mix equal parts of these ingredients and sprinkle a small amount over your dog's coat, ensuring it reaches the skin.
Avoid getting it in your dog’s eyes and mouth ... aim for your pet's coat only.
Herbal Flea/Tick Collars
Make a natural flea and tick collar by mixing 2 tablespoons of almond oil with a few drops of rose geranium oil or Palo Santo.
Apply a few drops to your dog's neck or collar once a week for effective tick prevention.
Tick Shampoo
Create a tick-repellent shampoo by adding several drops of Palo Santo to an organic lavender shampoo.
Lather your dog with the mixture, allowing the suds to sit for 20 minutes before rinsing.
This helps kill existing ticks and prevents new ones from attaching.
Citrus Repellent
Prepare a citrus-based tick spray by cutting a lemon into quarters and adding it to a pint jar. Cover with boiling water and let it steep overnight.
Pour the solution into a spray bottle and apply it to your dog, focusing on areas like behind the ears, around the head, at the base of the tail, and in the armpits.
Environmental Tick Prevention For Dogs
Nematodes
Beneficial nematodes are microscopic organisms that live in the soil and feed on tick larvae, breaking their life cycle.
You can buy nematodes online or at garden centers. Mix them with water and spread them around your yard using a sprayer or watering can.
Mowing The Lawn
Did you know keeping your grass short can help prevent ticks?
Ticks thrive in tall grass, so regularly mowing your lawn reduces their habitat, making your yard less attractive to them.
Food Grade Diatomaceous Earth
Food grade diatomaceous earth (DE) is a non-toxic powder made from ground fossils, marine life, and freshwater organisms.
Sprinkle DE on carpets, furniture, bedding, and areas where your dog likes to rest.
Leave it on for about 24 hours before vacuuming. You can also apply DE directly to your dog, but avoid the nose, eyes, and mouth.
Combining Natural Tick Repellent Methods
Using a combination of dietary, topical, and environmental tick prevention is the best approach because it offers broad-spectrum protection for your dog.
Consistently using these natural repellents can help keep your dog tick-free without the harmful side effects associated with chemicals.
By embracing the natural methods above, you can provide your dog with comprehensive, natural protection against ticks.
FAQ
What is the best homemade tick spray for dogs? The best homemade tick spray for dogs combines natural essential oils like lemongrass oil and peppermint oil in a glass spray bottle. This blend repels ticks effectively while being safe for your dog's fur.
Are there any natural tick repellents for dogs? Yes, natural tick repellents for dogs include essential oil blends, such as those using peppermint oil and lemongrass oil, which can be applied topically. These natural oils help prevent tick bites without the harsh chemicals found in traditional treatments.
What smell repels ticks on dogs? Ticks are repelled by the strong scents of natural essential oils like peppermint oil and lemongrass oil. Applying these oils to your dog’s fur can help keep ticks at bay.
What will keep ticks off my dog? Using essential oils like lemongrass oil and peppermint oil as a natural tick repellent can help keep ticks off your dog. Additionally, maintaining your yard by using natural oils and products to target tick eggs and flea larvae can further reduce tick infestations.
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