Natural Repellent for Ticks

Natural Repellent for Ticks Natural Repellent for Ticks

The weather is finally warming up, the sun is shining and ticks will soon be lurking in the grass! Depending on where you live, your yard may be covered with thousands of ticks or they may be of no concern. Since living in the Northeast, as soon as Spring comes around, I am on high alert watching out for not only ticks latching on to my pets but also myself. Especially since more than half of the ticks in my area carry Lyme disease, it becomes a serious concern.

Animals are the most likely to pick up ticks with their long fur and bodies being closer to the ground.  Plus, your dog may roll around in the grass, mine sure does! Not only is it concern for your pets safety, but many of the ticks will take a ride on your pets fur into the house and end up on your floor or furniture where they could end up latching on to you or your family members!

Why You Should Use Natural Repellents for Ticks

The chemical tick repellents out there contain toxic chemicals which can end up being absorbed by pet owners. When the instructions state that you can’t touch your pet for a certain number of hours, you know you’re dealing with harmful chemicals. One of the most common ones that is sold contains Permethrin, which is a synthetic toxic pesticide that can be absorbed through skin and is also harmful to breathe .

Last summer, I set out on a mission to try all possible natural repellents for ticks. After trying several different essential oils and other natural mixtures, the ones that I found to work best and that have great reviews are listed below.

Natural Repellents for Ticks

1. Rose Geranium Essential Oil – Mix 3 Tablespoons of almond oil with 20 drops of Geranium essential oil.  Apply several drops to your dogs fur, particularly around the collar area. (To be used only on dogs)

2. Apple Cider Vinegar and Lavender Oil - Mix 1 cup water with ¼ apple cider vinegar and 15 drops of lavender oil. Apply to your dog’s fur, or spray on.

3. Citrus Repellent - This natural repellent for ticks can be used on dogs or cats. Boil 1 cup of water, remove from heat and add in 3 fruits, such as lemons or limes by squeezing out the juice. Add 5 to 15 drops of lemongrass oil (for dogs, but optional). Shake well and allow the mixture to cool before applying to skin or pets fur.

4. Garlic Powder - In general add 1/8 of a teaspoon of garlic powder per pound of dog food.

5. Pet grooming - To help prevent attracting ticks, make sure to keep your pets hair as short as possible. This will also make it easier to spot any ticks on their fur.

The first natural repellent for ticks of Rose Geranium seemed to be the most effective, many have also mentioned having great success with it. Although, I continue to use a combination of these to get the most benefits.

Have you tried any of these natural repellents for ticks?

By:Lori.Klein

Source