Welcome to FYDO’s Forum. This is a column truly created For Your Dogs Only! It will be covering topics such as wellness, nutrition, grooming, behavior, and all things dog. If you have a dog question that you would like answered, send it to fydosforum@gmail.com. Your question, with an answer, may end up in this column!
To begin with, let’s talk about the dog’s nemesis, the tick! Did you know that ticks are not insects? They are actually part of the arachnid family and can live in temperatures above 45 degrees Fahrenheit.
How can you prevent ticks from getting on your dog? The truth is that you can’t, but there are ways to minimize the risk. Do daily checks all over your dog’s body. Catch those little buggers right away! You can also use OTC monthly topical treatments, but remember that OTC topical treatments contain toxic chemicals and may be harmful. Another solution is to use all-natural supplements such as brewer’s yeast, garlic, or apple cider vinegar. You can use all-natural herbal topicals such as eucalyptus, tea tree, or citronella.
In order to help keep those critters at bay, one must also protect the environment the live in with natural environmental preventatives such as Nematodes that feed on tick larvae, and Diatomaceous earth, a non-toxic powder.
While ticks can’t be totally avoided, with a little effort, we can make the summer more enjoyable and healthy for our dogs.
Robin Massey is a canine specialist for over 17 years and is the owner of F.Y.D.O.LAND dog care centers.
