Fleas and ticks are more than an annoyance. Fleas can trigger skin irritation and heavy infestations can contribute to anemia, while ticks can transmit infections. Heartworm, however, is spread by mosquitoes rather than fleas or ticks.
There is no single flea-and-tick product that is best for every dog. Product choice should take into account your dogās species, age, weight, health history, lifestyle, and the parasites common where you live.
CHOOSING FLEA AND TICK CONTROL SAFELY
Do not rely on household soap as a substitute for a properly labeled flea-and-tick treatment. Before using any product on your dog, talk with your veterinarian about options that match your dogās age, weight, health history, and local parasite risks. If you use a flea-and-tick product, follow the label exactly. Older advice on this page previously recommended Dr. Bronner’s Magic Soap that truly works wonders! In less than 5 SECONDS, the fleas and ticks are dead, when in direct contact with the soap! Whereas with the conventional soaps, the fleas and ticks would take up to 10 minutes to die!Ā Not only is this way free of safe and a better alternative to applying chemicals on your dog’s skin, this way is healthier for the environment and Dr. Bronner’s soap is so versatile and safe for everyone to use, including babies!Ā
The many different varieties of Dr. Bronner’s Bar Soaps!
To kill the fleas and/or ticks, you can either bathe your dog’s entire coat with Dr. Bronner’s soap or you can simply take a bit of their soap with a bit of water and apply it on your pet’s coat, directly on the fleas or tick. When in direct contact, the flea(s) or tick should die pretty instantly.Ā Ā
WHY DIY ESSENTIAL-OIL SPRAYS CAN BE RISKY
Before finally figuring out how to prepare your dog before they go outside, we found an effective solution that works like a charm every time, every day.Ā Do not spray concentrated or homemade essential-oil mixtures on your dog unless your veterinarian specifically recommends a pet-labeled product. āNaturalā does not automatically mean safe, and some essential oils can cause poisoning when absorbed through the skin or licked from the coat. Instead, use veterinarian-recommended prevention and follow the product label for species, age, weight, dose, and application instructions.Ā SAFER FLEA AND TICK PREVENTION CHECKLISTĀ What You’ll Need:Ā
- Ask your veterinarian which flea-and-tick prevention options fit your dogās age, weight, health history, and exposure risk.
- Use products only on the species and weight range listed on the label.
- Follow application and dosing directions exactly, and keep the original packaging.
- Check your dog for ticks after outdoor time and remove attached ticks promptly with an appropriate tool.
- Wash bedding and vacuum frequently if fleas are present in the home.
Important: Do not apply concentrated tea tree oil or other DIY essential-oil mixtures to your dog. Essential oils can be absorbed through the skin or swallowed during grooming, and concentrated tea tree oil can be toxic to pets. If you want a botanical product, choose one specifically labeled for dogs and follow the label directions.
Once your prevention plan is in place, continue checking your dog after outdoor time, especially around the ears, neck, toes, and other areas where ticks can hide.
Botanical flea-and-tick products are one option some owners consider, but ānaturalā does not automatically mean risk-free. Compare active ingredients, read the label, and ask your veterinarian whether the product is appropriate for your dog.
Botanical or ānaturalā flea-and-tick products still contain active ingredients and should be treated like any other pet-care product: read the label, confirm the product is intended for dogs of your petās age and weight, and follow the directions exactly. If you are unsure which option is appropriate, ask your veterinarian.
Whatever product you choose, use it exactly as directed and stop use if your dog develops irritation, vomiting, tremors, unusual lethargy, or another concerning reaction.
TheĀ Mission of WondercideMarketing terms such as ānatural,ā āholistic,ā or āchemical-freeā do not by themselves tell you whether a flea-and-tick product is appropriate for your dog. Focus on the active ingredients, the label directions, and veterinary guidance.
The Problem with Pesticides
Itās no surprise thatĀ pesticides are toxicĀ for people, pets, and the environment. It even has the warning on the label, if you ever bothered to read it!
Pesticides are just loaded with harsh chemicals that cause all sorts of environmental and health problems!
The use of chemicals is completely unnecessary when you can easily and effectively repel pests from your yard and garden, WITHOUT chemicals.
Flea-and-tick products can cause adverse reactions when they are misused or when a pet is sensitive to an ingredient. The safest approach is to use products that are properly labeled for your dog and to follow all label precautions. Contact your veterinarian if your dog has a reaction.
For additional guidance, consult your veterinarian and review current information from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and U.S. Food and Drug Administration on using flea-and-tick products safely.
Click on the image to enlarge. See the ingredients in Wondercide products are so simple and made with holistic, clean and simply safe products. Compare with Pestidcies and you decide which one you would use for your yard and home.Ā
Keep the rest of your dog-care routine simple
Parasite prevention works best as part of an overall care routine that includes regular coat checks, clean bedding, grooming, and prompt veterinary attention when something looks wrong. You can browse our dog grooming and everyday accessories for non-medicated tools that support routine care.
Bottom line: use flea-and-tick products that are appropriate for your dog, follow the label exactly, and ask your veterinarian when you are unsure.
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