Natural Remedies for Ticks and Fleas
Change of season, exposure to other pets, livestock or wild animals, you name it, there's potential at every proverbial corner for your hound to attract these dreaded parasites! In most cases, you notice they've hitched a ride on your pet's coat when your hound starts scratching or worse, when you've received a nasty nip from these critters yourself! Let's be honest; ticks and fleas are the bane of every pet parent's life because no matter how vigilant you are, ticks and fleas are quick to take advantage of any opportunity.
But besides being an irritation and a discomfort, these parasites can cause some nasty diseases such as Lyme disease, Tick Paralysis and Rock Mountain Spotted Fever, hence the importance of ensuring we keep them off our pets and out of homes!
While many pet parents resort to the plethora of chemical remedies and dog accessories available to control ticks and fleas, some pet owners prefer natural remedies. If you prefer a more natural approach to keeping these parasites at bay, you're in the right place. In this blog post, we'll explore some natural remedies that can help keep ticks and fleas away!
- Essential Oils
Lavender, eucalyptus, peppermint and citrus are essential oils that are excellent for repelling ticks and fleas. Add a few essential oil drops to a spray bottle filled with water and spray the solution liberally on your pet's fur. Alternatively, a few drops of essential oil mixed with almond or coconut oil can be applied directly to your pet's coat.
- Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is another great natural remedy for repelling ticks and fleas. Simply mix equal parts water and apple cider vinegar to create a vinegar solution, then spray it onto your pet's fur. You can also add a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to your pet's dog bowls (drinking water) to help prevent fleas and ticks. Check out these awesome home-made dog shampoos courtesy of the American Kennel Club.
- Diatomaceous Earth Powder
Diatomaceous earth is a powder made from fossilized plankton. It works by dehydrating ticks and fleas, causing them to die. You can sprinkle diatomaceous earth on your pet's fur, bedding, and carpet.
- Herbal Remedies
Certain herbs such as garlic, rosemary, and neem have natural tick and flea-repelling properties. You can add these herbs to your pet's diet or use them in a spray or oil form to repel ticks and fleas.
- Grooming
Regular grooming with the right dog accessories can help prevent ticks and fleas from infesting your pet. Brush your pet's fur daily, paying close attention to areas such as the neck, ears, and underbelly where ticks and fleas like to hide. Bathing your pet with a natural flea shampoo can also help.
The Final Itch
Natural remedies for ticks and fleas can be effective if used properly. However, not all natural remedies are ideal pet products for every pet, due to allergic reaction or pre-existing skin conditions. Speak to your veterinarian before trying any natural remedies on your pet.
Additionally, natural remedies should never be used as a substitute for professional veterinary care. If you suspect your hound has a tick or flea infestation, seek veterinary care immediately. Employing a combination of natural remedies, tick and flea deterrent dog accessories and professional vet care, you can help keep your pet happy, healthy and itch-free!
