Critter Oil ?

I've not used Critter oil -- I ahve used Sentry Natural Defense (which is ok) -- but honestly?  If you're going to a tick area you NEED more than just somthing light.  Ticks are way too dangerous and it's a bad flea/tick year in the south. (I'm in Florida -- and I haven't seen it this bad in about 15 years)

 So you think I should use the Frontline Spray along with the Vectra?

 I think you need to talk to your vet before combining chemicals...

loretta

My Vet suggested Frontline spray along with Vectra, but I feel that is too much.

Apparently she DID talk to the vet -- Sentry natural defense is 'less' - it's a combination of oils, not a pharmaceutical pesticide. that's why I suggested it -- the vet already told her to combine the chemicals.

 Sorry, missed that part; I'd still be very wary of combining those two...

What about a thorough tick check after time outside?  From what I understand, most diseases can't be transmitted until a tick has been attached for 24 hours, so if you checked and removed any twice a day you should be fine.  The Ticked Off tick spoon is wonderful for removing the buggers.

 I am very wary about combining the two chemicals.  Critter Oil is all natural.  So, I will either go with that or with the Natural Defense.  From what I have experienced, doctors and Vets don't think much about what side effects there may be.  My Vet just gave me a stronger medicine for Snicker's thunder phobia.  Trazadone.  But after reading the side effects of that one, I can't bring myself to give it to her.  I will stick with the Valerian Root and Calms Forte.  That is the best natural remedy for the thunderstorms, for Snickers, so far. 

There are times, and this is one of them -- that you're between a rock and a hard place.  If she's never been in a high tick environment, then she's wide open (and man, I hate tick shots).  She likely has not built any natural immunity. 

So ... you don't want chemicals ... BUT the alternative of getting bitten by a sick tick and THEN you **really** have to use months and months and MONTHS of chemicals (as in antibiotics, etc.).  so .... do you trade off a short term (and at least with the Frontline Spray you can control the amount).

At least with Vectra it doesn't seem to be systemic -- the parasite doesn't have to 'bite' the dog to die. 

I don't know about Critter Oil -- but the Sentry product has clove oil in it -- so be sparing.  It is POTENT stuff.  Anything that repels insects IS.

Honestly?  You can still use Avon Skin So Soft bath oil -- I mix up a teaspoon or two in 8 oz of alcohol and 8 oz water and use as a spray.  Oily?  yeah -- but bugs DO hate it and you can hit their belly and legs before they go out with the spray.