TICK PREVENTION
It’s that time of year when we’re all motivated and ready to take our doggies out for nice, long hikes. But there’s more to it than just putting on the leash and getting out there. Let’s talk about one of my least favorite things EVER: ticks 🥴🪲
There are way too many options out there for us to not be preventing our fur babies from getting bit by ticks or bringing ticks into the house! Let’s go one-by-one do you all can have a detailed and knowledgeable understanding of different tick preventatives.
•TICK COLLAR
These are great for when you want to just throw it on your dog before going outside, but they can take a few days before they start to work.
These are not meant to be used in high infestation areas, so if you’re going out into the woods, you may want something stronger.
You HAVE TO make sure you’re paying attention to your doggy when they one of these on because of they don’t like it and try getting it off, the chemical getting into their mouth can seriously harm them!!!
•FLEA AND TICK SPRAYS
So, these can be great if you’re someone who, again, doesn’t plan on going deep into the woods and might just need a little protection. There are so many of these and a lot of recipes online as well. You just have to make sure you’re using ingredients that won’t harm the dog if they’re grooming themself.
I like to use a spray in conjunction with a different preventative as well.
These can also be sprayed in your home around doorways to keep bugs out!
•CHEWABLES
From my own experience with my dog, these didn’t help so much with actually preventing ticks from jumping on. These are more meant for if your dog get bit by a tick. Then it’ll kill them.
I still recommend everyone puts their dog on this because even if you think you got all of the ticks off, it doesn’t hurt to have something as a backup to make sure they’re safe if they’re hit by one hidden deep in their fur.
These are great when used in conjunction with another preventative.
•TOPICALS
These would be my number one recommendation for tick prevention!!!
These not only prevent ticks from wanting to go onto the dog, but it is stored in the dog’s oil glands and kills the ticks (and fleas) whenever they bite your dog.
Only have to be applied once a month typically. (Varies based on which brand you use)
WHAT I USE:
•Frontline Plus Flea and Tick Treatment (this is a topical treatment) 💰Price: $42.88 for 3 months worth at PetSmart
•Vets Best Flea and Tick Spray 💰Price: $8 at PetSmart
We use these together because I like to make sure the ticks won’t jump onto my dog’s feet and legs when walking through the grass and I feel better about having the extra protection. She haaaates being sprayed with stuff but it’s better for her😂
#Lemon8Diary #healthylifestyle2024 #dogmomsoflemon8 #dogsoflemon8
Okay, so we all know that heart-dropping moment when you find a tick on your dog, seemingly out of nowhere! People sometimes call them 'flying ticks' because they appear so quickly, especially after a fun outdoor adventure. But here's the truth: ticks don't actually fly or jump. They're more like tiny, sneaky hitchhikers! They climb onto tall grass, shrubs, and leaves, waiting for a host (like our beloved pups) to brush by. This is called 'questing,' and it's why prevention is SO important, especially for dogs who love exploring. Building on what's been shared about collars, sprays, chewables, and topicals, let's dive a bit deeper into how we can create an even stronger defense, particularly for our active, outdoor-loving dogs. My own light-colored dog, for example, makes it a bit easier to spot ticks, but even then, they can be super tricky! Beyond the products, what else can we do? Yard Management: If your dog spends a lot of time in your yard, consider making it less tick-friendly. Keep grass mowed short, clear leaf litter, and create a barrier of wood chips or gravel between wooded areas and your lawn. This seriously reduces tick habitats. Pre-Hike Prep: Before you even step foot on that trail, a quick spray with a natural repellent (like a diluted essential oil blend approved for dogs, but PLEASE consult your vet first!) can add an extra layer of protection, especially on legs and paws. Post-Adventure Tick Checks: This is non-negotiable! Even with the best preventatives, some ticks might still latch on. After every walk, hike, or romp in tall grass, thoroughly check your dog. Pay special attention to warm, hidden spots: between toes, behind and inside ears, under the collar, in the armpits, and around the tail. Feel for small bumps. For dogs with thick fur, a fine-tooth comb can help. Safe Tick Removal: If you do find one, don't panic! Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin's surface as possible. Pull upward with steady, even pressure. Avoid twisting or jerking, which can cause the mouthparts to break off and remain in the skin. Clean the bite area and your hands with rubbing alcohol or soap and water. Keep an eye on the area for any signs of infection. What about those 'natural' remedies? While there are many DIY recipes for tick sprays online, please exercise extreme caution. Some essential oils can be toxic to dogs, especially if ingested or applied incorrectly. Always consult your veterinarian before using any homemade solutions, especially if your dog tends to lick themselves. Your vet can guide you to safe, effective options that complement their primary prevention. Keeping our dogs tick-free means they can live their happiest, healthiest lives, full of outdoor adventures. It's all about being prepared and consistent. Happy trails!
