Holistic Alternative Flea & Tick Prevention: Topicals
Holistic Alternatives: A Safer Approach?
Fleas and ticks can transmit serious diseases. However, in light of the abundant concerns that conventional flea and tick medications pose -read about them here, dog owners, including Doberman parents, are turning to holistic alternatives that promise to repel pests without harsh chemicals. While the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) does not recognize Essential Oils as pest repellents as the scientifically backed evidence is relatively sparse in comparison to, for example, DEET (chemical name, N, N-diethyl-meta-toluamide) based topical products, it is prudent to weigh their dangers against the possibly less effectively essential oil-based, lesser-known alternatives, such as rose geranium, cedarwood, and neem oil.
EPA
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) oversees the regulation of pet pest control products, including flea and tick preventatives. They are responsible for ensuring that these products are safe and effective before being marketed and used on animals, including dogs. This includes evaluating data on the product's safety, effectiveness, and potential environmental impacts. Brands like Bravecto, which provides flea and tick control for dogs, must be approved by the EPA before they can be sold and used in the U.S. The EPA's regulatory authority is supposed to ensure that pest control products used on pets do not pose unreasonable risks to the health of the pets or the environment. One issue in the studies the EPA uses is that they’re often sponsored by the drug companies themselves, which is a conflict of interest, and the peer review is not bias-proof. Many reviewers are experts in the field and are familiar with prior research, study authors, and compounds studied. Hence, they can deduce which company likely sponsored a trial they’re reviewing.
The EPA does not recognize essential oils as pest repellents due to a lack of rigorous testing for efficacy and safety, unlike EPA-recognized chemicals like fipronil and permethrin, which have been tested for effectiveness against ticks and fleas. However, topically applied chemicals can pose problems for Dobermans, who often have sensitive skin, leading to potential irritation or allergic reactions. Therefore, while effective, conventional treatments may not be suitable for all dog breeds, particularly those prone to skin issues.
Rose Geranium Oil
One natural remedy gaining popularity is rose geranium oil. This essential oil is praised for its tick-repelling properties. Basic scientific studies suggest that certain compounds in rose geranium oil, such as geraniol, can effectively repel ticks and fleas to a lesser extent. However, using this oil correctly is essential: it should be appropriately diluted and applied sparingly, typically a few drops on a dog's collar or back. While not as universally effective as chemical treatments, rose geranium oil offers a safer alternative for repelling ticks, particularly for dogs sensitive to traditional medications.
A suggested mixture for a homemade tick repellant spray, according to Dr. Conor Brady, is:
1 cup of water
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
Ten drops of rose geranium oil
We suggest you use purified water, as tap water is often chlorinated and may contain fluoride in the USA and may irritate your pup’s skin. Also, avoid spraying any solution onto your dog’s face or private areas. Instead spray the solution on a dry wipe and apply the solution behind their ears without touching their insides of the ears, eyes, or muzzles.
Please be advised: always test any solution you spray on your dog in a small spot on their skin first. Essential oils can irritate skin and some essential oils can even be toxic to dogs. If your dog shows irritation, stop using the product and consult with your (holistic) veterinarian.
Cedarwood Oil
Another holistic alternative is cedarwood oil. Known for its pleasant aroma and insect-repellent properties, cedarwood oil can be an effective natural deterrent against fleas and ticks. The oil's compounds, such as cedrol and cedrene, can help repel pests and offer a soothing effect on the dog's skin. Similar to rose geranium oil, cedarwood oil should be used cautiously—properly diluted and tested on a small skin area to prevent any adverse reactions.
Please be advised: Since cedarwood-based products to repel fleas and ticks are very popular, read the ingredient labels of any cedarwood product. Most formulations contain other ingredients that you may want to stay away from. For example, a trendy cedar-based brand with more than 32k Amazon reviews is sulfate-based. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) is a synthetic chemical compound sometimes used in pest control due to its ability to disrupt the outer layers of insects. It is also a known skin irritant.
Dobermans are prone to skin issues, including dryness and dermatitis. SLS can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to increased dryness and irritation and potentially exacerbating existing skin conditions. Moreover, continuous exposure to irritants like SLS can compromise the skin's natural barrier function, making it easier for bacteria, allergens, and other irritants to penetrate the skin, leading to infections and other dermatological issues. Therefore, it is best to avoid any product that contains SLS.
Neem Oil:
Neem oil is a natural product derived from the seeds of the neem tree (Azadirachta indica), native to the Indian subcontinent. It has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its antiseptic, antifungal, and insecticidal properties. In recent years, neem oil has gained popularity as a natural alternative for repelling and controlling pests, including ticks and fleas in pets.
There is scientific evidence, mostly collected on cattle populations, to support the use of neem oil as a repellent against ticks and fleas. The active component in neem oil, azadirachtin, affects the hormonal system of insects, disrupting their life cycle and preventing reproduction, thereby acting as a natural insect repellent. Studies have shown that neem oil can effectively repel various species of ticks and fleas, making it a potential natural alternative to chemical-based products. For those readers living in Florida, Neem Oil may also be of interest to possibly help prevent sand fly transmitted Leishmaniasis.
Neem oil can be applied in several ways to repel fleas and ticks on dogs:
Topical Application: Diluted neem oil can be applied directly to the dog's coat, avoiding the eyes, nose, and mouth. It's important to dilute the oil properly, as concentrated oil can be too strong for the skin, potentially causing irritation.
Shampoos and Sprays: There are pet shampoos and sprays available (we prefer Project Suds due to their natural, organic ingredients) that contain neem oil or cedarwood in particular. These products can be used for regular grooming, helping to keep fleas and ticks at bay while neem oil also soothes the skin.
Safety and Considerations:
While any of the named essential oils are generally safe for use on dogs, it is essential to proceed with caution:
Dilution: Always dilute neem oil with carrier oil (such as organic sweet almond oil or coconut oil) or purified water when applying it directly to your pet's skin.
Bandanas: If you’re worried about applying anything to your dog’s skin and coat, consider spraying the solution on a bandana you can take off when your pet comes back inside. While it may be questionable how well the solution will work on a bandana, it may be an option to consider with Dobermans prone to skin problems.
Cats: Essential oils should not be used on cats, as they are more sensitive to essential oils and possibly can develop toxicity even faster than dogs.
Allergies and Sensitivities: As with any new product, start with a small amount to ensure your dog does not have an allergic reaction. If they do, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Pregnancy: Avoid using any essential oils on pregnant dogs, as there is insufficient research on their effects during pregnancy.
Environmental Use:
Neem oil and cedarwood oil can also be used in the environment, such as in bedding or areas where the pet spends a lot of time, to control the presence of fleas and ticks. Again, please be advised to read any product labels before spraying your environment, as surface contact can cause several issues for your dog as well.
Implementing Holistic Methods
If opting for holistic treatments like essential oils, it's crucial to integrate them carefully into your pet's care routine. Always remember to look at the dog in front of you carefully. While the lack of studies on the subject does not mean that holistic approaches do not work or are inherently inferior to traditional treatments and preventions, it is crucial not to trust anecdotal evidence either blindly. It is always prudent to consult with a holistic veterinarian before making any treatment decisions.
One issue essential oils suffer from in particular is that they are very volatile, meaning they evaporate very quickly. Depending on the oil and mixtures used, they sometimes only last from minutes to a few hours. As such, frequent re-application is required, which may cause a concern for sensitive skin dogs again.
For dogs already suffering from flea or tick infestations, you can combine these natural repellents with regular baths, thorough combing, and environmental clean-up to eliminate existing pests and prevent future infestations. Again, you may wish to connect to a holistic veterinarian for more insights.
Educating Yourself for Better Decision-Making
Education is key when choosing the right flea and tick prevention method. Understand the risks associated with traditional preventatives and consider your dog’s specific needs and sensitivities. Consulting with a veterinarian can provide guidance tailored to your dog's specific health profile and lifestyle.
In summary, while traditional flea and tick preventatives are effective, they are not without risks, particularly for sensitive breeds like Dobermans. By educating yourself about these risks and exploring holistic alternatives like rose geranium and cedarwood oils, you can make more informed and safer decisions for your pet’s health and well-being.
Disclaimer
This article is not medical advice but aims to provide information for educational purposes. Always consult with a veterinarian before introducing new treatments or supplements to your pet’s regimen, especially when considering natural or holistic alternatives.
Further Resources
Studies:
Geranium Oils:
Tabanca, N., Wang, M., Avonto, C., Chittiboyina, A. G., Parcher, J. F., Carroll, J. F., Kramer, M., & Khan, I. A. (2013). Bioactivity-guided investigation of geranium essential oils as natural tick repellents. Journal of agricultural and food chemistry, 61(17), 4101–4107. https://doi.org/10.1021/jf400246a
Neem Seed Oil:
Choudhury M. K. (2009). Toxicity of Neem Seed Oil against the Larvae of Boophilus decoloratus, A One-Host Tick In Cattle. Indian journal of pharmaceutical sciences, 71(5), 562–563. https://doi.org/10.4103/0250-474X.58191
Cedarwood Oil:
https://www.ars.usda.gov/news-events/news/research-news/2022/pleasant-smelling-wood-oil-not-so-pleasant-for-biting-ticks-other-pests/
Review of Essential Oils to Repel Ticks:
Selles, S. M. A., Kouidri, M., González, M. G., González, J., Sánchez, M., González-Coloma, A., Sanchis, J., Elhachimi, L., Olmeda, A. S., Tercero, J. M., & Valcárcel, F. (2021). Acaricidal and Repellent Effects of Essential Oils against Ticks: A Review. Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland), 10(11), 1379. https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens10111379
