Ticks in the Yard

    • Puppy

    Ticks in the Yard

    Last year we had a tick outbreak in the backyard of the home we had just moved into.  I sprayed a couple of times 10 days apart with Durzban but was still getting an occasional tick on my Miniature Schnauzers (I have 3).  I had to quit spraying because I had a litter of puppies ready for outside experience and was afraid it might be bad for them.  The ticks, of course, have been hybernating all winter and now that our warm weather is back (Mesa, AZ) I'm sure they will be back too.  Any suggestions?  I hate putting stuff on the dogs and have another litter of pups due in April.  Thank you in advance for any help,  Diane
    • Gold Top Dog
    I just got the new Orvis catalog in the mail and they've got 23" dog bandannas in there that are called "Buzz Off" - according to the ad, a man made form of the natural insect repellent found in chrysanthemums is actually bonded to the fabric to give it an odorless, invisible repellency that's EPA registered and effective.  They're about $15, but if they really repel ticks I think they're probably worth it. You can see them at orvis.com - just key in item #SD99X2.  It's an extra $8 if you want it personalized, but I think I would be able to pass on that. [:D] This appeals to me more than chemicals.  Orvis is a reputable company, so if the product isn't what you expect it to be, I'm sure there won't be any problem sending it back for a refund.
     
    Joyce
    • Gold Top Dog
    A man made version of a natural repellent made from chrysanthemums... that would be Pyrethroids. What a great way to make a common chemical sound so beautiful.

    I would use Frontline plus on your adults, and go over the pups every night with a flea comb to remove ticks. Keep the pups away from tall grass and you shouldn't have any problems. Fronline (fipronil) is a very safe product, and has been tested in very young puppies. It is only approved for older puppies, but I would still consider it safe to use on the parents when the pups reach an age where they start venturing outside.