It's rather humbling to be taunted and daunted by these nasty little vermin every year. We bathe and shave, we dip and clip, and grab and dab permethrin (or worse) on our precious little pups all summer long. And we declare Victory! But at what cost? Not just the financial costs (which are considerable), but, also, the health risks for dogs and humans. For many people, the risks involved in pesticide use are of great concern. But there are, also, the risks involved in NOT using them. Ticks transmit some very nasty diseases. What's a girl to do?
Fortunately, there are alternatives that you can try. Rose Geranium, Texas Cedarwood, and Nootka, the essential oils contained in Blue Ridge Botanicals Tick & Flea Blend have been proven to repel ticks. In fact, there are numerous studies, including the CDC, USDA as well as some independent commercial studies that confirm their efficacy. (Links are included below.)
We have just entered the tick and flea season so now is the time to begin a holistic regimen of prevention. Here at Blue Ridge Botanicals, we have formulated our own Rose Geranium Blend to provide the highly effective tick repellant properties of Rose Geranium with the added benefits of the Texas Cedarwood and Nootka. Both of these oils have flea and tick repellant properties of their own, but also impart a more pleasant scent than Rose Geranium Oil does alone. Along with regular grooming, good nutrition and exercise, our Rose Geranium Tick & Flea Blend is an effective, proven and safe remedy in your dog's health maintenance. For best results, use it daily before you take your dog outside and, remember to check your dog for ticks after he comes in the house. Ticks do not attach immediately and, at that point, can be easily seen, removed and terminated! Also, please note: Before using essential oil on cats, pregnant animals, AND by pregnant humans, it is always best to check with your vet and/or obstetrician re: pregnancy and essential oils. And please note that many essential oils can be harmful to cats.
Wishing all of us a Happy and Healthy Spring!
https:///www.ars.usda.gov/ARSUserFiles/3122/TabancaEtAl2013.pdf