What Kind of Herbs Can I Use for Ticks on My Dog?

The thought of them might make your skin crawl, but ticks come with the territory of owning a pet. Whether your pet is in the front yard or the park, there's always a risk of ticks attaching themselves to your dog's body. No matter how common ticks are, it's important that you take the necessary precautions to safeguard your pet against ticks, because they may cause diseases like Lyme's disease. One cost effective way to help prevent your pets from harboring fleas is to use common household herbs.

  1. Rosemary

    • The Daily Puppy states that rosemary is an effective tick-repelling herb. Whether you grow it in your garden or purchase a dried version of the herb, a rosemary powder can help aid your dog in tick prevention. If you're harvesting rosemary, take a few leaves after they've matured and press press them between the pages of a book for a few weeks. Place the rosemary into a blender and blend until the rosemary turns into a fine power, then rub the rosemary all over your dog's fur.

    Thai Lemongrass

    • Thai lemon grass contains citronella, a common ingredient in insect candles that is an effective insect repellent. Visit you local garden store and purchase a Thai lemongrass plant, break the thin stalk, peel off the leaves and pull the cream color stalk until the plant releases a pulpy juice. Rub your hands together and run your fingers through your dog's fur.

    Lavender

    • According to The Whole Dog, lavender oil will freshen up your pet's fur and aids in inducing sleep. Pour one cup of water into a spray bottle, drop 20 drops of lavender oil in the bottle and shake swell. Use the spray to mist your pet's entire body, spray down all entry and exit doors and mist sleeping and play areas.

    Basil

    • Basil contains extremely powerful insect repelling properties. Take either an entire plant or 5 tablespoons of basil and place the herb into a spray bottle filled with two quarts of water. Let the basil sit for at least two hours before shaking up the basil-infused water. Mist your pet's entire body, its collar, dog bed and play area. Mist any areas where there is a doggie door or door mat to further protect your pet from ticks.