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I grew up in the middle of the woods. In fact, when we came home from playing outside we had our nightly tick checks and so did our dogs. That's a good thing too because ticks were no small issue. I remember distinctly when I would come across the white bubbles filled with the blood of my innocent puppy, appropriately named a bubble tick. But managing these little blood suckers is no small feat because traditional tick products can be dangerous and it can be difficult to discern whether the tick or the product used to treat it is worse.
Organophosphate Insecticides Damage the Nervous System
According to a report by our NGO partner, the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), the majority of tick products on the market today contain toxins, known collectively as organophosphate insecticides (OPs), which not only kill insects but can also damage the nervous systems of pets and people. Pesticides that contain OPs including chlorpyrifos, dichlorvos, phosmet, tetrachlorvinphos, naled, diazinon, and Malathion should be avoided, and regulated much more stringently by government.
Repell Ticks Without Organophosphate (OP's)
- Do not over water the lawn if you have one. Ticks are attracted to humidity and swampy areas so do your best to let the lawn dry out between waterings.
- Add ½ cup of fresh or dried rosemary to a quart of boiling water. Steep 20 minutes, strain, and allow to cool to body temperature. Spray or sponge evenly onto pet and allow to air dry. Do not towel down as this will remove the residue. Make sure pets are dry before letting them outside.
More on Pets:
Groom Your Dog for Better Health
Get Rid of Fleas the Green Way
The Lean, Green, Flea-Zapping Machine
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