If you live up here in the northern hemisphere, chances are you aren’t going on too many adventurous walks with your dog these days. But our southern hemisphere neighbors are probably out soaking up the sun! And for those of us up north, spring will eventually arrive (though not soon enough!) So go ahead and bookmark this post if it’ll be helpful for you later on. :-)
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Today I’m sharing a simple and natural way to keep your furry friend free of ticks and fleas! Consider it a natural alternative to a medicated flea collar. (I will mention that this natural collar is designed to deter fleas and ticks from becoming a problem, and is NOT intended to treat existing flea problems.)
This easy DIY project uses 3 essential oils that can help deter little pests from antagonizing your pup – lavender, citronella, and melaleuca. And rather than using a plain old dog collar, we decided to infuse the oils into a bandana! Not only does a bandana provide more surface area for the oils, but it is guaranteed to look really cute. (Who can resist a dog in a bandana, really?!) ;-) Here’s how to make your own.
Flea and Tick Collar for Dogs
You’ll need:
- Bandana
- 1/4 cup of water
- 5 drops lavender essential oil
- 2 drops citronella essential oil
- 1 drop Tea Tree essential oil
Directions:
Add the water and essential oils to a small bowl, and whisk to combine.
Soak the bandana in the water and oils, then wring lightly (just so that it’s not dripping wet).
Hang the bandana somewhere and allow it to air dry.
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When it’s dry, it’s ready to tie around your pooch’s neck! Put it on before walks, hikes, and other outdoor adventures to help keep your dog flea- and tick-free!
When the bandana starts losing its scent, simply repeat the process again to reapply the protective oils.
Your dog is so handsome. Is he a willing model for you?
He sure is, as long as treats are involved ;-)
Can you use Eucalyptus instead of citronella, since I have that available?
Wouldn’t this work for hikers and those of us who walk a wooded path daily?
Absolutely!
Melaleuca/Tea Tree is not supposed to be used on dogs. Is this not a problem, because it’s on the bandanna and not on the dog?
This treatment is very safe for dogs! The oils are very diluted and not rubbed into the dog’s skin. :-)
Any substitutes oils that could be used in place of the lavender? I’m severely allergic to it.
You can leave it out!
Thanks for this! Do you have suggestions for existing flea problems?
Try adding three to five drops of tea tree oil (depending on the size of your dog) to a handful of your dog shampoo. :-)
I’d like a natural flea collar for a cat too!!
The last topical I used has left my cat with a hairless spot on her back and she is losing hair on her legs and belly.
What about a cat flea collar.
You could make one for a cat, but you they are extra sensitive to oils! Only use one drop lavender and one drop citronella oil. :-) And if the cat doesn’t like it, don’t make them wear it!
I wonder what else could be used other than a bandana? Maybe a cotton rope or similar, although not sure how to make it catch. Any other ideas? How about a cheap, woven dog collar soaked in this mix? I know readers will have other ideas.
A dog collar works, too :-)
Since this can’t be used on cats. Does anyone have one safe for using on them. My last cat actually had a bad rash from flea bites. Took her to the vet and the shot made her belly swell. Actually it turned out the cat had congestive heart failure, but her injection just made it more obvious that she wasnt healthy.
You can use this for cats, but only use one drop of lavender and one drop of citronella. If the cat hates it, don’t make them wear it. I hope your cat is healthy and happy!!