Spring is here and summer is just around the corner. Naturally, we want to get outside and enjoy the outdoors once again together with our dogs… but so do fleas and ticks.
And with fresh air, warmer temperatures plus wet weather comes outdoor annoyances such as gnats, fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes. They’re as excited as we are that the seasons are shifting and multiply quickly especially during spring + fall.
So how do we protect ourselves and our pets while enjoying the great Canadian outdoors?
Well… naturally of course! For those of us that prefer to prevent, protect + prepare for these bloodsuckers – we’re blessed to have many options to choose from. Vaccinations prepare us for sometimes unavoidable life-threatening diseases but what about everyday protection from nuisances?
My home, the Niagara Region is known for it’s high number of tick and flea populations so firstly educate yourself – know what you’re up against and before all else keep your eyes open at all times. These nasty little critters are clever and sneaky here so I know your struggles!
Thankfully toxin-free protection IS available out there for your dogs. And despite regulations stipulating the use of harsh chemicals and dangerous repellents as insecticides/pesticides, we are free to use or even make our own natural products if we so choose. And the best part of using natural ingredients? We can be generous, layer up and use them daily knowing our pets are safe and benefiting from their health benefits at the same time – win win!
Defence Drops
Personally I make + use my own defence drops that are all natural and use only therapeutic essential oils. They’re diluted properly, safe for daily use and create a beautiful aroma that not only protects your dog but comforts them emotionally too. Get some of your own here.
Defence Spray
But I don’t stop there. I ALSO bring my bottle of defence spray made with organic apple cider vinegar and a blend of essential oils known for their use and efficiency in outdoor repellants. My spray adds shine to my dog’s coat and isn’t sticky either so I use it myself too. Get some of your own here.
Dog Locket
Want even MORE protection? Clip on an essential oil locket to your dogs collar so you can use your own essential oils at home to protect your dog right under their nose. Just add a drop or two of lavender, cedarwood, geranium or lemongrass – all are great options that pests find undesirable on hosts. Pick your locket and colour of felt insert for inside – lots of colours to choose from!
Dry Shampoo
But what about once you get back from outdoors? Diligent grooming + checking for hitchhikers usually ensures no bugs get a free ride inside but sometimes we still may miss one. Dust a light layer of our dry shampoo through your dog or cat’s coat as a final step to cover what you miss. Containing organic diatomaceous earth (a gentle mechanical insecticide), my deodorizing powder will leave your dog’s coat smelling like fresh lemongrass all while eliminating outdoor odours. BONUS – it’s safe to use on fabric and carpets too (just vacuum up a week after treatment).
These are just a few of the many amazing natural options available to concerned parents that prefer a holistic approach to their pet’s protection. Talk to your local pet stores, join the growing Facebook group Empowered Pet Parents to learn more as you switch to natural products and the safe use of essential oils with your pet.
What do you use to naturally protect your dog outdoors?
For a limited time use coupon code SPRINGCOMBO to save 15% when you purchase all three (3) together defence drops + spray + dry shampoo available until May 31, 2019.
Last updated: May 17, 2019
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