Ticks & Fleas: Prevention and Removal

Amber Calzone
Jun 17, 2017
3 min read

Summer is finally upon us. It is easy to become lost in the romance of long, sun shining days filled with an endless possibility of adventures. Even so, it's important to remember that summer comes with hidden dangers, one of which is the tick. A tick is a tiny blood sucking creature. Although small, these parasites can cause havoc on our furry friends. Lyme disease is just one of the many diseases ticks can carry.

When dogs contract Lyme disease they often become lethargic and experience a decreased appetite. Common symptoms include high fever, lameness caused by inflammation of the joints, and swollen lymph nodes. In some dogs, the kidneys may be affected.

I have Lyme disease and I wouldn't wish the condition on my worst enemy, let alone my best friend! Follow these simple tips to help keep your pup safe this summer.

PREVENTATIVE MEASURES

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In the Yard & Home

1) Reduce or remove piles of debris, lawn shavings, or wood. Keep lawns trimmed short.

2) Apply all natural, food grade Diatomaceous Earth to your property. This product is nontoxic and natural, making it safe for humans and pets. It can be used inside the home as well; learn more here. 3) Amber Crown Herbal Tick Spray is a non-staining formula that can be used directly on pets, their bedding, or anywhere else in the home. 4) Directly below are all natural recipes which can be used directly on pets. Use the same sprays on your pets' bedding.

Note: theoretically the sprays can be used on any soft surface in the home. That being said, do a stain test first

On Pets

1) Use an organic collar that naturally repels ticks. "Natural unpolished amber releases repellent aromatic terpenes and generates static electricity that prevents insects from clinging onto your pet’s fur" -- learn more about this stylish collar here. It's also available on Amazon Prime w/ free 2 day shipping!

2) Making neem oil shampoo is simple: add pure neem oil to any oatmeal based dog shampoo. Neem oil can be used in a number of other ways as well - read about the possibilities here.

3) Apple Cider Vinegar Spray: 1:1 apple cider vinegar to water, add a few drops of cedar and/or rosemary essential oil. You can also add oils extracted from citrus fruits, such as orange or lemon (tip: this mixture is also great for fleas).

Warning: Do not add citrus oils if you have feline friends in the home.

4) Comb your dog regularly, especially after walking or playing anywhere ticks tend to dwell. This way, the tick can be brushed out of your pets' fur before it has the opportunity to attach itself. It's important to check the ears for ticks as well.

IF YOU FIND A TICK

The following is the removal technique recommended by the Center of Disease Control:

Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin's surface as possible.
Pull upward with steady, even pressure. Don't twist or jerk the tick; this can cause the mouth-parts to break off and remain in the skin. If this happens, remove the mouth-parts with tweezers. If you are unable to remove the mouth easily with clean tweezers, leave it alone and let the skin heal.
After removing the tick, thoroughly clean the bite area and your hands with rubbing alcohol, an iodine scrub, or soap and water.
Dispose of a live tick by submerging it in alcohol, placing it in a sealed bag/container, wrapping it tightly in tape, or flushing it down the toilet. Never crush a tick with your fingers. Tip: I suggest keeping the tick in a sealed bag. You are then able to give the tick to the veterinarian for testing if needed.