Dealing with fleas and ticks is never fun – for you OR your dog. That’s why prevention is always the best measure against these pesky parasites. But if you’re worried about using chemicals to prevent ticks and fleas on your dog, you’re not alone. Thousands of pet parents are looking for safe, natural ways to deter fleas and ticks, and we have some proven – and super easy – solutions for you right here … (And if you’re already under siege from ticks and fleas, check out these 5 ways to fight fleas safely.)
#1. When Life Hands You Lemons … Make Flea & Tick Repellant
Fleas and ticks can’t stand citrus, so repelling them can be as simple as grabbing a few lemons from your fruit bowl. Lemon is an affordable (and nice-smelling) natural way to help prevent these pests.
Recipe for Lemon Flea & Tick Repellant
- 1. Thinly slice 1–3 lemons and add to 12-oz pot of water
- 2. Cover pot and bring to a boil
- 3. Lower heat and simmer for 30 minutes
- 4. Remove pot from stove and let sit overnight
- 5. Remove lemons and add mixture to spray bottle
- 6. Store in refrigerator up to 3 days
To deter fleas and ticks, spray your dog (careful to avoid the eyes) before your pet goes outside. You can also spray morning and evening on drapes and furniture in the areas where your pet hangs out if you’re dealing with these parasites in the house.
#2. Work Hard on Your Yard
Fleas are finicky about where they live, and outdoors, they shy away from sunny, open areas, opting instead for shady, cool places like shrubs, leaf piles and trees. By trimming back your foliage and staying on top of your raking and mowing, you’ll create an unhospitable environment for these annoying pests. You can also be proactive by planting flea- and tick-repelling plants and herbs in your garden or in pots on the deck. Here are some popular ones that are easy-to-grow and non-toxic to dogs and cats:
- Thyme
- Marigolds
- Garden Sage
- Sweet Basil
- Rosemary
#3. Apple Cider Vinegar Spray
This pantry staple is a great solution to naturally repel fleas and ticks because these pests can’t stand the smell of it. In a spray bottle, mix 50% apple cider vinegar with 50% water, then spray on your pet before a hike or spending time outdoors. Voila – instant flea and tick prevention!
#4. Rosemary to Repel Pests
Not just for soups and casseroles anymore! Rosemary is a fantastic natural flea and tick repellant. If you’re a fan of essential oils, you can add a couple of drops to your dog’s collar or dilute 5 drops in a spray bottle with water and apply to your dog’s coat. Or you can grind this herb up with equal parts rue, wormwood, fennel and peppermint and sprinkle the powder anywhere in your home where you suspect fleas are roaming, from window sills to carpeting and baseboards.
#5. Use a Non-Toxic Pet Shampoo to Deter Fleas and Ticks
Trusted by veterinarians, groomers, and pet parents like you, Oxyfresh Pet Shampoo is top dog at getting pets clean and fresh while helping to prevent ticks and fleas – naturally. It’s uniquely formulated with lemon peel essential oil plus vinegar to act as a natural safeguard from fleas and ticks. Our pH-balanced formula with silk amino acids beautifully conditions dogs’ coats and is 100% non-toxic. Just as important – what’s not in our formula. No itch-inducing ingredients, like alcohol or harsh fragrances. Oxyfresh Pet Shampoo is gentle and safe for all pets, especially those with allergies. You get a fresh, clean pet plus flea and tick protection with every bath.
P.S. From head to tail, Oxyfresh has extraordinary pet care products you can always feel good about using on your pets. Check them out at oxyfresh.com.
